The digital face of Latvian libraries

prospective

The Bauska Central Library has turned into a modern information centre, largely thanks to this project. The library now has high-capacity computers with user-friendly software and high-quality images. This has solved the former problems we had – computers breaking down, large files not opening, and impossibility connecting to certain Internet addresses. Users can therefore make better use of the opportunities our library offers.Ērika Pelcere, Bauska Central Library, Manager of Internet reading roomKnown also under the name ‘Network of Light’ (SULIN), the project has seen Latvian libraries transform into a social, cultural, educational and information network, reflecting the needs and benefits of the interconnected information age we live in. A broad spectrum of libraries is now part of the network and includes national, academic, public, scientific, school and special libraries.A network of opportunityThe development and acquisition of software for the library information system and the creation of a library portal were key features of the project. A local network for libraries was also developed and implemented, adding to the source of potential information in other locations, with users abroad also benefiting from the system introduced.The project has succeeded in increasing the ICT skills of locals when it comes to using resources and has improved equal opportunities in terms of access to information. For library users, 752 computers were provided, helping people in the region enhance their education and knowledge, especially important in today’s competitive labour markets and information society.Tool training for librariansAcquiring new tools and technical infrastructure demands that the user knows what to do with the tools. To ensure that the services provided by librarians remain of high quality and relevant, training was an integral part of the project actions. Some 216 training sessions were provided for librarians at level 1 (i.e. without technical knowledge); 384 for librarians at level 2 (with basic technical knowledge).Reliable internet connections in libraries were also seen as vital to the needs of librarians and visitors. Some 104 internet connections were therefore set up, another 86 improved, adding to the solid infrastructure of the national library system.