Innovative Asian Public Libraries Transforming Services and Communities

From ‘Robots that Shelf-Read’ to ‘Cubicles of Happiness’ public libraries in Singapore and Malaysia continue to create and re-invent services for their multicultural populations to connect people of all ages to the library. Hear from colleagues at the Selangor Public Library in Malaysia and the public library side of the National Library Board of Singapore about new services and activities being provided for all ages. And how they work collaboratively with government agencies and corporate sponsors to develop informed citizens, create learning marketplaces, and more. You are sure to learn ideas to bring back to your library.

Punggol Regional Library, Singapore: A model for a Learning Marketplace, and an Equaliser for Learning

The National Library Board (NLB), Singapore has recently opened a new regional library in the Punggol township of Singapore in April 2023. Spanning over 5 floors with a total area of over 12,000 square metres, Punggol Regional Library (PRL) is NLB’s latest attempt to envision what a future library needs to be, and is a physical manifestation of LAB25 (Libraries and Archives Blueprint 2025). One of the focus of LAB25 is the role of the library as equaliser and PRL was conceived to provide inclusive access to library services and learning opportunities for everyone, including persons with disabilities. Another role is that of the Learning Marketplace and under this focus area, the library provides spaces and opportunities for individuals and communities to learn together, experiment and share expertise and interests. This presentation will touch on the planning process for Punggol Regional Library, covering topics on space and service planning, technology, community and partnership engagement, to show how NLB has reimagined libraries and transformed both our spaces and services.

Library Brings Happiness: An Aspiration to Add Value to People's Lives

Selangor Public Library Corporation sees that a library is in the most strategic position to help transform its communities: as a lifelong learning centre that develops individuals' strengths spiritually, intellectually and emotionally.

This presentation will share how a public library can help individuals and communities improve their lives through the libraries' facilities and services.