ENG-2006 — Page 466

Information Technology Initiatives and Digital Library Initiatives

The Library Automation System of the public libraries is one of the world's largest computerised library systems with both Chinese and English capabilities. It provides 24-hour Internet

library services for online catalogue searching and reservation and renewal of library materials. In 2006, more than 17.76 million items of library material were renewed through the Internet and Telephone Renewal Services. More patrons are now using the new e-mail notification service. The Hong Kong Public Libraries Homepage (www.hkpl.gov.hk) is among the 10 most visited websites in Hong Kong, reflecting the growing popularity of online public library services.

Hong Kong Public Libraries continued to expand the application of information technology to provide more convenient and efficient services to the public. New ways of providing wireless Internet service are being tested.

In 2006, the number of readers opting to use their smart ID cards as library cards continued to rise. By the end of the year, 192 computer terminals with Internet access had been installed with e-Cert compatible smart card readers to promote wider use of information technology and electronic services by the public.

Internet Express Terminals were set up in eight libraries on a trial basis, and an expansion of this pilot service is being planned. To further promote self-service by end-users, additional self-charging terminals were also installed in branch libraries.

The Multimedia Information System (MMIS) developed for Hong Kong Central Library opened up new realms for information retrieval by offering the public instant access to a wide variety of digital documents as well as audio and video programmes on demand. Equipped with powerful and sophisticated search facilities, the system provides a one-stop search facility enabling users of all ages to explore the multimedia archives via the Internet at home or through some 600 workstations in the Central Library and the 26 branch libraries. Since its launch in 2001, the MMIS has been honoured with a number of awards both at home and abroad.

Outreach Programmes and Promotion of Reading and Literary Arts

Outreach programmes form an integral part of library services and the libraries. continue to organise a balanced mix of activities. Regular programmes like storytelling sessions, book displays and exhibitions, and community talks were organised throughout the year. During the year, a total of 18 905 library outreach programmes were organised.

A variety of reading programmes and reading-related activities were organised to promote reading and sustain reading habits and interest. These included a programme called 'Summer Reading Month', designed to get children and the whole family to read more.

Teens' Reading Clubs were formed at 34 libraries during the year and Family Reading Clubs were set up at the five major libraries. To tie in with the 4.23 World Book Day, libraries organised a book report competition, entitled 'Into the World of