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In With the New

June 13, 2022

One of the questions we love to hear at the library is "What’s new here?" Public libraries constantly evolve to better serve the unique needs of every community. Libraries change based on patron feedback, trends and ideas happening elsewhere, and by our staff creating new programs, technology, and partnerships across the County.

And, occasionally, a complete rethinking or refresh happens. As we emerge from a challenging pandemic period, what better time than now to launch a fresh look for the library? This winter we worked on rebranding the library to keep in step with other modernizing initiatives you may have noticed in our branches. We’re really pleased to present our new logo:

HCPL logo consisting of an open book motif  with cyan on the left and bright green on the right, and a warm red circle above the green

The new Haliburton County Public Library (HCPL) logo incorporates the natural elements of our area. The blue and green representing lakes and trees, the warm red as a sunset, and the gentle curves bringing to mind the topography of the highlands. But of course, you may also see a person reading an open book with curved pages. We hope what translates well in our updated branding is a sense of new energy.

In addition to the launch of a new logo this season, we’re thrilled to welcome you to our new library website. It works well on any device you may use to access it. The site also integrates our new search platform, BiblioCommons, so that finding a book, movie, or learning resource should be easier than ever. One of my favourite features of the new website are the "book rivers." You can browse new titles online by scrolling left and right, just as you might on Netflix, to find and select your next read. If you click on any book cover you’re interested in it will take you to information about this title, including the current status (how many copies we have, if the book is on order, or if you can access an e-book copy).

One of the concerns I often hear from patrons and visitors is that they’re nervous about their library’s shift to digital resources. I can assure you that traditional library programs and services are here to stay. After all, we’re a country of trees, and the tactile enjoyment of reading physical books and other paper resources is important to so many of us. The experience of browsing the shelves and serendipitously finding a great new book is an enduring pleasure at the library.

Still, the digital copies of books, magazines, and movies that HCPL provides access to significantly expand the size of our collection without requiring more shelf space. We presently have over 80,000 digital book copies and nearly 4,000 digital magazines!

And like the accessibility features built into our soon-to-launch website, resources such as digital magazines, audiobooks, and e-books allow our patrons easier access to the content of their choice. Whether you use a screen reader, enlarge the font of the text in an e-book, or turn up the volume of your audiobook, electronic resources are designed to improve your access.

If you have questions about our digital collection, accessibility, or you need help configuring your e-book reader or tablet, your library staff can often help you solve issues over the phone and in person.

As society evolves in new ways, the library will too. So, I welcome you to join HCPL if you’re not already a member and check out what’s new at the library. Summer Reading Club will be starting soon, and there are new programs happening all the time. See you at the library this summer.

By Chris Stephenson, CEO

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