The Kaikōura District Library has upgraded its services, putting its catalogue online and allowing online membership sign-ups. “Everyone with access to the internet can now browse the library catalogue wherever they may be 24/7, 365 days a year,” Library Manager Jackie Brown says. “Library members with an email address can also now login and reserve, request or renew items or update their account information.”

“Many of our customers live some distance from the library, have limited mobility or have trouble getting to the library during opening hours. Going online makes it easier for these people to use the library in a way that works for them,” Brown said. “We can offer assistance for those who may not be fully computer savvy, through our Stepping Up courses for computer use.”

All of the items available at the library are now hosted, maintained and updated through a reliable and efficient cloud system. All maintenance and updating is completed by a company dedicated to data management, with both changes saving librarians time. Renewing or reserving an item can now be done with the click of a button, anywhere a device can connect to the internet, saving members time and penalty fees.

Council CEO Angela Oosthuizen said, “As well as offering library users an online system, the improvements mean our library staff now have been freed up to spend more time helping customers, running activities and keeping the library running smoothly. Upgrading to an online system has been on the list of planned improvements for a long time and I’m really proud that the team have made it happen.”

“The upgrades keep our services up to date and on par with other libraries around the country – we thought it was time we were able to offer a reliable online service to the community,” said Brown, “work is continuing on Councils online payment system and we hope that library users will soon be able to pay fines and fees online too.”

Membership remains free for residents.

Existing members who want access to the online library, should email their name and library membership number to books@kdclibrary.co.nz.

For more information about the library, becoming a member online and browsing the online catalogue, visit https://www.kaikoura.govt.nz/our-district/new-kaikoura-district-library/.

Kaikōura District Library would love and feedback on the upgrades. Feedback can be provided by email, phone or post or via the contact us page on Councils website (https://www.kaikoura.govt.nz/contact-us/).

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