Expansion Update Next Generation Library

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Libraries are no longer only repositories for books and havens for those seeking the quiet pursuit of knowledge. On any give day, the Olds Library is humming with activity. Children are learning how to become Eco Detectives. New Canadians are selecting progressive readers, beginner English books written for adult learners. Artists are exchanging their Art Spark Trading Cards, mini masterpieces they have created. Truckers are checking out best sellers on audiotape to help pass the kilometers. Teens are engrossed in computer aided dialogues with people across the world. As Olds’ population has expanded and growth continues, increasing the number of users and diversity of their needs, the community is ready for a new generation library.

The Library Expansion Project will increase the current building to 9,000 square feet, allowing necessary space for at least the next 15 years of operation. Major funding for the project is generously provided by the Town of Olds, Government of Canada’s Building Canada Fund, and Government of Alberta’s Major Community Facilities Fund. The Olds Lions Club is a Room Sponsor and many donations continue to be made by the community through the Bricks for Books program. The project is expected to be completed in October, 2010. In the meantime, temporary library operations are underway in the former SAAN store downtown.

This new generation library will serve as a community showcase for leading edge digital equipment for home and communication applications through a partnership with the provincial Community Engagement Site Program and Community Connections, a project of the Olds Institute – Technology Committee.

A forward thinking building in function needs to be as forward thinking in design. The expansion project’s architecture and engineering firm, Group 2, are leaders in sustainable design. Environmentally responsible features include: rainwater collection, passive sunlight optimization, energy efficient heating and water efficient plumbing. The building material, furniture and landscaping were selected for green features including durability, local manufacturing and closed loop recycling.

Donations
The Olds Municipal Library now accepts donations through paypal. This makes it fast and easy for you to give your favorite library the help it needs to continue serving the community. All donations over $5.00 are eligible for a tax receipt. Receipts will be mailed out at the end of each year. We thank you for your support and look forward to continued service in the future.

Ebooks and Eaudiobooks
(use web banner from webpage with new link as per previous email about web banner)

eBooks and eAudiobooks have arrived at the Olds Municipal Library. We are happy to present this collection to you starting with our eAudio collection with eBooks to follow shortly.

eAudio books come in two formats including Mp3 and WMA files. You will need to ensure you are downloading files compatable with your player. For instructions on how to use the service click on the links below. If you would like to enter our eCollection click the link on the sidebar or go to our library catalogue for access.

You will need your library barcode (all 14 digits) and your pin number (last 4 digits of your phone number) to sign in. If you have problems downloading from the eCollection please give us a call and allow us to assist you.

For Mac users

Shows how to download eAudiobooks to your Mac computer, and then transfer them to a portable device that supports an MP3 file format. Time: 4 minutes

For Windows users

Shows how to download eAudiobooks to your Windows computer, and then transfer them to a portable device. Discusses the different types of download files: WMA and MP3. Time: 4 minutes

About the Expansion
Planning and Design
Why a Bigger Library?
Economic Benefits 2008
Financial Obligations
Business Case
Librarian's Annual Report

Studies
Standards for Member Libraries In Alberta
School Housed Public Libraries [coming soon]
PRL Space Study [coming soon]
2001 Expansion Study

Fund Raising
Donate Now! (Bricks for Books)
Naming Rights Opportunities
MLA Write-In Campaign (Do Not Be Quiet!)