12th ALIA National Library Technicians Conference
9-12 September 2003
Bridging services - embracing reality

Smart libraries, smart futures

Lea Giles-Peters, state librarian, State Library of Queensland

The substantial changes about to become evident at the State Library of Queensland are more than just a redevelopment of the physical building. They represent the realisation of our vision, creating six spheres to allow the library to engage with its clients in exciting and innovative ways.

The six spheres are:

• an accessible place
• a constantly transforming place
• a virtual place
• a place of interacting
• a place with atmosphere
• a voice in its place.

These are the arch - our big picture which will span the information gap and meet the reference, research and recreation needs of Queenslanders. Whether needs are met in Indigenous Knowledge Centres, in public libraries around the State, or at our Southbank site, the client centred approach from the State Library of Queensland will be consistent.

Planning for services, even at the most strategic level, in a rapidly changing environment impacts on the roles of library technicians now and in the future. The State Library is in a formative and evolving stage of our exciting transition into the library of the future. We are considering how services will be delivered, what new services and programs can be considered, and who will take responsibility for making this happen. State Library is keen to ensure we don't miss any opportunities.

The creative ways we choose to make the six spheres a reality involve all staff. Of these staff, library technicians at State Library of Queensland have crucial role in delivering our vision 'Smart libraries build smart communities'.

..full paper to come