Novocastrians have embraced the chance to learn digital skills and access cutting edge technology at the City's newest library, which has attracted more than 59,000 visitors in its first year.
The Digital Library is co-located with City of Newcastle's Customer Service Centre and mobile Council Chamber on Level 1 of 12 Stewart Avenue, creating an award-winning community and civic hub that has proved popular with local residents and city workers since opening in September 2020.
Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said COVID-19 had brought the need for digital skills into greater focus during the past year as parents and students had to adapt to working and learning from home.
"In this highly digital age it's more important than ever for our community to have access to the tools required to enhance their skills and equip themselves with a greater understanding of technology," Cr Nelmes said.
"The Digital Library offers a community-based, educational environment where physical collections are complemented by a diverse range of technology-based library experiences.
"During its first year, the library hosted school excursions, digital storytelling workshops in partnership with Compass Housing's Grow a Star Project, three school holiday programs for children to explore virtual reality, robotics and coding, and a youth film night.
"Online literacy programs were also offered for seniors to navigate the Newcastle Library app, and events were held to help over 50s explore new technologies as part of University of the Third Age's 30th anniversary celebrations.
"The Digital Library is successfully helping people bridge the digital divide through a range of unique programs and services, which are improving digital literacy and promoting digital inclusion for people of all ages."
The Digital Library offers the community access to a podcasting studio, an industrial 3D printer, Pepper, the programable robot, and a digital multimedia 'Magic Box', which provides a unique way of reading and interacting with the Library's rare book collection through interactive video, photos and newspaper articles.
It also features a Grab'n'Go collection of the latest and most popular books, CDs and DVDs, large touchscreens with access to thousands of newspapers and magazines, along with free access to Wi-Fi, tablets and personal computers.
All Newcastle Libraries including the Digital Library remain closed in line with NSW Government advice. While the libraries are closed, members can access the eLibrary or Library 2U delivery service by visiting newcastle.nsw.gov.au/library
