FOR RELEASE     #05-056
March 9, 2005

WHITEHORSE - The Whitehorse Public Library Board has planned a grand opening of the renovated library March 12 from 1 - 4 p.m. with an official ceremony at 2 p.m.  Refreshments, entertainment and library tours will be available throughout the afternoon.

When the Whitehorse Public Library reopens March 11 following a three-week closure, library patrons will notice more than new flooring and layout changes.  Along with the renovations, a computer upgrade has been completed for the software system that runs the Yukon Public Library and Yukon Archives Library catalogue and circulation processes.

"This computer upgrade will improve service to library patrons throughout Yukon," Community Services Minister Glenn Hart said.  "Individuals can access the new on-line services from any computer with Internet access.  Yukon's network of community libraries will be able to provide Yukoners with more comprehensive, up-to-date information by using the upgraded catalogue and circulation software."

Using their library card and a PIN number assigned by phoning or visiting the library, patrons will be able to electronically renew books, put books on hold, or access their records to see which books they have out.  Access to the upgraded system is available at http://www.pac.gov.yk.ca/ from computers in the library or from computers at home or at work.

Using the new system, Whitehorse Public Library will be able to email overdue and hold notices to all patrons who request this option.  This practice is expected to free-up staff time and save postage for many of the 12,000 overdue notices that are currently processed, printed and mailed every year.

Access to online circulation functions will also be available in Yukon community libraries by the summer, enabling these libraries to provide patrons in Yukon communities with up to the minute information on the entire library collection.

"Everyone is invited to attend the library's re-opening and see the investment Government of Yukon has made in electronic service improvements through the new interactive computer services as well as in renovating the library," Hart said.

-30-