More flexible access at libraries to suit users

Bateau Bay and Kariong libraries are next in line to offer extended hours access as part of the Library@yourtime program.

The extended library service follows the success of the initiative providing additional access at Toukley Library over the past year.

The innovative program uses technology to monitor selfaccess, self-service loans and returns, computers and printing as well as lighting, alarms, and public safety.

Central Coast Council Libraries and Education Unit Manager, Beth Burgess, said Library@yourtime at Toukley Library had been embraced enthusiastically by library members.

“Library@yourtime lets inducted library members have access to the library outside regular staffed hours and complements our services during staffed hours, where library members can receive help and guidance as required,” she said.

“As always, our extensive range of free online resources and services, including eBooks, eAudiobooks, homework help, music streaming and more are also available 24/7 via Council’s website.”

Participants of Library@ yourtime must be over the age of 18 and meet the terms and conditions of the program, including completing a building and safety induction course. Access is via a swipe card and children under the age of

18 must be accompanied by an inducted adult.

Inductions for library@ yourtime, in the new locations at Bateau Bay and Kariong will be available from mid-June.

Patrons interested in this access can contact Kariong or Bateau Bay branches for session dates and times, or simply for more information.

Council Administrator Rik

Hart said this was a great example of how Council was creating better services to meet the changing needs and expectations of the community.

“Our libraries are continually reviewing their services and facilities to meet the changing needs of library users, including how people want to visit, borrow items and enjoy their library experience,” he said.

“Through Library@yourtime, library members can enjoy services at times that suit their lifestyles, whether that be commuters on their way to or from work, or students and families wishing to utilise the space and library services on weekends.”

These new services have been made possible through funding from a State Library of

Support to defer PEP-11 Bill “shameful”

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“Unlike the Liberal-National Party, we won’t jeopardise the process by playing politics with this issue.

“It is important we allow the proper process to play out because we have seen what happens when conservative governments have gotten involved and caused delay in this area.”

But Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch says that if the Minns Labor Government was all for environmental protection as it says, it would be supporting the Bill instead of “kicking it down the road”.

“It is simply despicable that the Government has decided to kick this Bill, which would protect our pristine coastline from polluting offshore drilling and mining, down the road into committee,” he said. Crouch said the deferral of the Bill to the Environment and Planning Committee would prevent any progress being made until November at the very earliest.

“It is shameful that this welldrafted and ready-to-go Bill will not see the light of day until November at the very earliest, which conveniently is at the end of the Parliamentary sittings for 2023,” he said.

“The actions taken by the Minns Labor Government leave the door open to proponents of PEP-11 to push ahead with projects.

“The unintended consequence of deferring this Bill is that it signals to companies wanting to undertake offshore drilling and

New South Wales Local Priority Grant.

Library@yourtime will extend the normal operational times so that inducted members can access the libraries every day between 7am and 7pm.

Contact Kariong Library 4325 8155 to become a Library@ yourtime member

Contact Bateau Bay Library 4350 1580 to become a Library@yourtime member

To access online library services, become a library member or sign up to the library e-news, visit libraries. centralcoast.nsw.gov.au.

The Central Coast Library Service app is also available to download for free from Apple iTunes or Google Play.

Source: Central Coast Council mining that it’s acceptable to go ahead, as the Government would rather save its own face than take real steps to protect our environment.”

Sue Murray

One of Coastlink’s most popular accommodation venues has been renamed Roberts Lodge in honour of the organisation’s longestserving board member, Helen Roberts.

The renaming was made official at a ceremony held at the venue on July 3, which was attended by Helen Roberts and her family, as well as Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch, Coastlink Board Members, staff and residents and carers from the Lodge.

An organisational stalwart, Helen Roberts gave two decades of voluntary contribution to Coastlink, and was also recently honoured as the organisation’s first-ever Life Member.

Having been appointed to the Coastlink Board in 2003, she offered a wealth of experience in disability, aged care and transport services from her work as the CEO of Community Transport