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Summarizes legal precedents establishing the unconstitutionality of installing Internet blocking software by public libraries in the United States under the First Amendment. Includes banning of the use of blocking software in libraries in the Pico Case; Criteria used by blocking product publishers; Right of libraries to relegate authority to determine what users can see.

A review of the development, implementation and future of a major and very successful public libraries reader development strategy for 22 public libraries in the North West Region of the UK, with reference to the UK Year of Reading 2008. The strategy, which is included as an appendix to the paper, has served as a model for working across local government boundaries. Edited version of a paper presented at the Reading Critical conference, State Library of Victoria 11-12 April 2008. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reader development and advice continue to be regarded as core business for public libraries. This paper reports the findings and conclusions of a survey investigating the veracity of this assumption in public library services throughout New Zealand. It is concluded that New Zealand lacks directed strategic thinking about reader development, and that there should be a focus on it to ensure a consistently high level of service throughout the country's public libraries. Edited version of a paper presented at the Reading Critical conference, State Library of Victoria 11-12 April 2008. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Berri Library and Information Centre is a joint use library located in the Riverland area of country South Australia. The library was considered unusual when it was established in 1999 because it was a quite large three way joint use library, serving the needs of a local senior high school, a technical and further education college and the local community. Another unusual feature is that all staff at the library work under a sole employment model, which is still far from normal for joint use libraries. This paper revisits some of the factors in place when the library was first established and examines how things have changed 12 years later. Edited version of a paper presented at 'Connection and convergence: second international conference on joint use libraries' Adelaide SA 3-4 November 2011 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Opened in 2007 the Wangaratta Library is a large joint use library in Victoria involving Goulburn Ovens Institute of Tafe, the High Country Library Corporation and the city of Wangaratta. This paper provides an overview of the original vision, the methods of implementation, consolidation of services, community attitudes and a description of the value added services of the venture. An external review after three years of operation provided the future direction to ensure the partners do not become complacent and that the library remains highly successful. However in 2012 and despite its success, the library's future as a joint use library is challenged by a major reduction in funding by its Institute partner . Edited version of a paper presented at 'Connection and convergence: second international conference on joint use libraries' Adelaide SA 3-4 November 2011 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Local studies librarians have been slow to embrace blogging. This paper describes the set up of a local studies blog, what sort of content to include, the benefits and drawbacks of blogging, and the unexpected delights. Examples from the Manly Library local studies blog and other good examples, are provided. If a local studies blog is being used, effectively the local studies collection is being used. Edited paper presented at the conference A sense of place: local studies in Australia and New Zealand Sydney 5-6 May 2011. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Established in August 2009 Unlock The Past (UTP) is a collaborative venture involving authors, presenters, archives, libraries, historical societies, genealogy and family history societies and commercial companies and individuals in a broad range of activities which all revolve around history, genealogy and heritage in Australia and New Zealand. This paper outlines how UTP can assist archives and libraries with their own objectives in reaching out to stakeholders and client groups, especially genealogists and local and family historians. Edited paper presented at the conference A sense of place: local studies in Australia and New Zealand Sydney 5-6 May 2011. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Community archives play an important role in heritage and cultural wellbeing but the quality of care they receive and their accessibility vary greatly. This paper presents the results of research which investigated the factors required for maintenance of community archives and how well a selection of New Zealand archives exhibited them. The results showed that many of the factors required for maintenance are interrelated and interdependent but that some have a particularly strong impact on the maintenance of the archival records and the evidence they contain. Based on these results and factors, possible strategies for enhancing the future sustainability of community archives are proposed. Edited version of a paper presented at A sense of place: local studies in Australia and New Zealand conference Sydney 5-6 May 2011. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Library and cultural service convergence is an increasingly frequent response by local governments to external pressures, especially changes in technology, user expectations, and the availability of finance.1 Convergence is also a purposeful and visible way that a library becomes embedded in the community, and this strategic positioning ensures connection and continuity. In the 21st century, libraries are working with traditional and nontraditional partners. This paper explores Wanneroo's experience of convergence of a public library, museum, community history centre and exhibition gallery. Paper presented at Connection and convergence: second international conference on joint use libraries Adelaide 3-4 November 2011 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Maitland local studies strategy was developed as a result of a city wide strategic review undertaken by Maitland City Library which highlighted the importance of fostering management of Maitland's local history and heritage resources. The strategy sustains recognition of Maitland's history and cultural heritage through promotion of networks, development of standards, support of local heritage organisations and promotion of heritage education. This paper provides an overview of strategy development and outcomes, with a focus on how public libraries can position themselves beyond the role of repository and into community leadership. Paper, excluding appendices, presented at A sense of place: local studies in Australia and New Zealand conference Sydney 5-6 May 2011. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apps, mobile access and augmented reality can present different ways for people to find out about local studies related information whether they are in the library, or at an historical site. This paper discusses what mobile discovery tools are available for local studies sites; how are they already being used; how could they be used in the future; how easy they are to implement. Paper presented at A sense of place: local studies in Australia and New Zealand conference Sydney 5-6 May. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the evolution of the concept, delivery and results of a library storytelling festival, designed for New Zealand young people from 12 to 18. The festival sought to develop a wider perception of storytelling by highlighting many of the different media used to tell stories, especially those that appeal specifically to young people today, such as texting, tattoos and graphic novels. Traditional storytelling was also explored, hence the oral and visual components. Edited version of a paper presented at '12 to 24s @ your public library in Australia and New Zealand conference' Qld 11-12 June 2010. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Swansea Library's first offer of programs for local teens was met with little enthusiasm. So began an investigation into developing a youth program that would be attractive to them. Library staff went back to basics and spent time surveying local youth. The process was simple, but intensive in its collection, and the results gave staff great insight. The programming that followed is based on these results and still in its infancy. This paper covers the investigation, the methods, interaction with the teens, the survey results, planning and promotion, and outcomes. Edited version of a paper presented, at '12 to 24s @ your public library in Australia and New Zealand conference' Qld 11-12 June 2010. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Book Well program is a collaborative initiative of the State Library of Victoria, the Public Libraries Victoria Network and VicHealth. Employing read aloud reading groups, the program focuses on the power of literature to improve the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities. It particularly targets people who are vulnerable due to their situations, such as the homeless, the long term unemployed, new arrivals in Australia, residents in aged care facilities and those experiencing mental health problems. The Victorian program was inspired by the UK's Get Into Reading program. In March 2010, 20 Victorians were trained over five days to deliver the Book Well program. This paper discusses the focus, merits and implementation of the Victorian program, provides an evaluation of the program to date, and comments on future directions. Edited version of a paper presented at the Alia Access conference Brisbane 1-3 September 2010. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines whether the same appeal characteristics work for reading and for games. Explored are the use of readers advisory skills in working with young people to investigate how to suggest titles gamers might like to read, and games readers might like to play. Public libraries should talk with their readers and those who play games, and also find out if they have staff with specialist knowledge of games. Edited version of a paper presented at '12 to 24s @ your public library in Australia and New Zealand conference' Qld 11-12 June 2010. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regardless of the adequacies of budgets, library usage continues to rise. Libraries may not be able to have a dedicated youth space but still need to cater effectively to the 12-24 demographic. This paper looks at ways to maximise the resources already available to provide a youth friendly environment. It also considers the challenge to find out what 12 -24s think about libraries. Edited version of a paper presented at '12 to 24s @ your public library in Australia and New Zealand conference' Qld 11-12 June 2010. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In May 2008 Dunedin Public Libraries opened its new Teen Space in the city library. This paper examines the design process from initial concept to completed space, including consultation with the wider youth community and the crucial role they played in the process. Discussed are the way the space is used, who uses it, the flexibility of the space incuding as a performance space and as an exhibition space for artwork. The external relationships, what has worked, what has not worked and what is next are also assessed. Edited version of a paper presented at '12 to 24s @ your public library in Australia and New Zealand conference' Beenleigh Qld 11-12 June 2010. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper draws out the themes, discussions and learnings from the 2009 Ifla Metropolitan Libraries Section mid term meeting in Brisbane. Papers at the meeting emphasised the use of buildings, staff development and workforce planning and the use of research to inform decision making and implement evidence based practice. Also described is the evidence based 'Being the best we can' self evaluation process for public libraries developed in Victoria in 2009. Edited version of a paper presented at the Ifla conference 23-27 August 2009 in Milan, Italy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A main element of public library service has always been user expectation and reliance on the provision of new collection resources and formats in addition to traditional services. Today this translates to an emphasis on internet services and online provision of information and collections. The focus of this paper is on spoken word material and audio download services, giving an overview of available audio formats and device features. It covers general issues to consider when making decisions on audio collections and the strengths and weaknesses of the formats under consideration. Examined are the evolution of audiobooks, emerging technology, and playback devices; service and collection issues; format strengths and weaknesses. Edited version of a paper presented at the Next Chapters conference, State Library of NSW 1-2 May 2009. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the range of readers advisory services being provided for leading edge baby boomers over 55, the well aged and the frail aged. Currently there is little targeting of readers advisory to specific age groups or agilities. Readers advisory services for older adults require experimentation, a willingness to make mistakes, and learning from those mistakes to provide more imaginative and better services. Edited version of a paper presented at the Next Chapters conference, State Library of NSW 1-2 May 2009. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the large size of the baby boomer cohort in Australia, a key question for public libraries is what impact their retirement will have. There is likely to be increased demand for public library services, but also opportunities to entice baby boomers to work as volunteers, including in advocacy roles. This paper reports recent research focused on the impact that the characteristics of baby boomers, and the world in which they will retire, might have upon the preparations that libraries can make and the issues that should concern them. Main areas of discussion include the role of the public library as a social hub including physical and technological resource provision; innovative partnerships to enhance public library service; the role of volunteers; and planning for change, including staffing and funding. Edited version of a paper presented at the Next Chapters conference, State Library of NSW 1-2 May 2009. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Men are typically very under represented in library membership and use. There are many reasons why public libraries need to try to change this situation, by finding out what is required for a dynamic and relevant service for them. From a simple conversation came an innovative project that became known as Books for Blokes. Its success has inspired the expansion of the concept to include older men in the Monaro Region. This paper shares an experience that was successful, worthwhile, enlightening, exciting and fun. Edited version of a paper presented at the Next Chapters conference, State Library of NSW 1-2 May 2009. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is an increasing international interest in the significance of ageing populations and what this means for communities and public libraries. New Zealand is no exception. This paper shares the experiences of the Christchurch City Libraries' learning centres and professional learning about providing public learning programs for older adults. Older adult profiles are used to identify the characteristics of the permanent learner. It is shown how flexible public programming can contribute to the development of a lifelong learning culture. Edited version of a paper presented at the Next Chapters conference, State Library of NSW 1-2 May 2009. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 'Good practice guide on library services for older people' was commissioned by the UK Department of Health in 2008. This paper focuses on the development of its content. Key policies give context with pointers to identifying older people now and their needs, involving older people in developing services, and working in partnerships. Elements for developing a comprehensive strategy include consultation, staff participation, ensuring a comfortable and encouraging environment, marketing, diversity and inclusiveness, partnerships, use of checklists, resources, and evaluation and advocacy. Edited version of a paper presented at the Next Chapters conference, State Library of NSW 1-2 May 2009. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When social changes are considered by libraries it is often said that reading is on its way out and that libraries will have to adapt to the change. This paper puts forward ideas about the purpose of reading and the role libraries could be playing in meeting the reading needs of their users. The work of libraries in the presence of claims that reading is a thing of the past is not easy. However libraries cannot give up printed texts. Suggestions that they should educate the general public and make them read are also not helpful. The best way to serve users is to try to understand them and to promote the joy, not the duty, of reading. Edited version of a paper given at the Ifla Metlib conference in Prague 2008. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given Australia's wealth, public libraries across all of its states and territories are woefully underfunded on a per capita basis. While improvements to ongoing government funding may take many years of concerted lobbying, library managers and local councils need to be aware of substantial funding opportunities that exist through innovative partnerships in their own localities. Universities, local employers, professional sport teams and associations and registered clubs are just some of the organisations that are proven partners for public libraries seeking to expand and improve their services. This paper provides a step by step guide for library managers and local councillors who are keen to explore their entrepreneurial sides and seek appropriate, viable, longterm financial partnerships to deliver improved community outcomes. It also provides case studies of successful funding partnerships to demonstrate the viability of such strategies. Edited version of a paper given at the September 2008 biennial conference of the Australian Library and Information Association held in Alice Springs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past four years Salisbury Library Services in South Australia has developed an extensive program aimed at encouraging all age groups in the community to read. Salisbury Reads has seven components. Some of these components rely on building relationships. They are complemented by another program Reading @round the Region bringing together nine other local government authorities to focus on readers advisory training and resources. Edited version of a paper presented at the Reading Critical conference, State Library of Victoria 11-12 April 2008. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The received wisdom is that men do not read as much as women. If it is true, how can libraries use sport to engage men and the men of the future -- boys -- to read more. If it is not true, how can we redefine respectable reading to include sport biographies, the back pages and the internet, so that men and boys see themselves as avid readers? Edited version of a paper presented at the Reading Critical conference, State Library of Victoria 11-12 April 2008. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reading for pleasure is core business for public libraries, and library staff need to be equipped to talk with readers about books, to promote the pleasures of reading, to take a proactive role in suggesting reading materials, and in making the books and reading material in their libraries more accessible and appealing. A statewide readers advisory (RA) training program commenced in New South Wales in 2004. Rewarding Reading is a train the trainer program for public library staff involved in the delivery of readers advisory/reader development services. The program is designed to develop and upgrade the skills needed to answer the timeless question 'What's a good book to read next?' Rewarding Reading courses have been delivered in NSW, ACT, Queensland, Victoria, South Australia and New Zealand. Outcomes include flow on library training within libraries, increased emphasis on and promotion of readers advisory services, and collaborative initiatives such as those undertaken by the NSW Readers Advisory Working Group to develop RA resources and reading lists. Edited version of a paper presented at the Reading Critical conference, State Library of Victoria 11-12 April 2008. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bibliotherapy activity in Essex is described and the development of bibliotherapy in the UK reviewed, drawing on an audit prepared for Arts Council England and the Museums, Libraries, and Archives Council in 2006. There is a focus on book prescription but also covered is the use of creative literature to promote health and wellbeing, and the filtering of information on prescription by some UK library services. Edited version of a paper presented at the Reading Critical conference, State Library of Victoria 11-12 April 2008. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While it is common for libraries to now have information technology expertise within their organizations, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) with its blend of radio technology and electronics may appear unfamiliar and unique. It can be difficult for library professionals to evaluate vendor solutions and to weigh features and benefits against standards and frequencies. This paper provides information and observation which put some of the variables into context. Through discussions with libraries over recent years, many areas of concern or confusion regarding RFID have been identified. A framework to begin further exploration of the world of library RFID is suggested. Edited version of a paper available at www.sybis.com.au [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emerging technologies provide librarians with a unique opportunity to substantially enhance user centred services and to facilitate and promote collaboration between libraries and their users. This paper explores the range of free and inexpensive technologies that have been implemented with practical and immediate benefits for library staff and users. Examples of integrating technologies include blogs, wikis, RSS aggregators, podcasts, vodcasts, web conferencing, and instant messaging. Also reported is the take up of these technologies by public libraries nationally and internationally. Australian public library use and promotion of these services is examined. A case study around the Queensland Opal Training Project Emerging Technology course examines library staff buy in and involvement in the development of new series, and explores the difference emerging technologies can make to users. Edited version of a paper presented at the Alia conference Perth WA September 2006 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Public librarians have long held to the social justice philosophy of free access to information for all people. The issue of censorship relates to the professional principles of the Australian Library and information Association and to the role public librarians play in nurturing social capital in communities. This paper considers the philosophy of free access to information in the context of contemporary item selection and classification processes within public libraries. A survey of Queens/and public librarians identified attitudes towards the public right to information, and determined the degree to which censorship is practised or prevented in public libraries. The findings support those of international research that anticensorship attitudes are not always indicative of censorship behaviours, and that some librarians employ self censorship of materials to avoid censorship challenges. Edited version of a paper presented at the 2004 Alia biennial conference Gold Coast Queensland under the title `Zero censorship! Who are we kidding? An exploratory analysis of the opinions and experiences of Queensland based public librarians with regard to the censorship of materials in public library collections' [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of greater access to fee based electronic information on free reference enquiries is examined. The research methodology included an extensive literature review and interviews with reference services librarians in Australia and overseas. Any assumption that greater internet access and use equals a decline in public and state library reference enquiries is not proven. The paper concludes with a summary of trends, predictions and scenarios of usage of state and public library reference services in an increasingly electronic age, paying special attention to the Australian environment. Edited revision of paper presented at the Vala conference Melbourne February 2004 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A survey of Australian public library websites reveals that few libraries have gone beyond establishing websites that provide information about their static library resources and services. Few attempts have been made to deliver a high level of interactive library service to online clients. This paper examines some of the issues that public libraries need to consider in rethinking the way that the web can be better used to provide interactive, real time online services. Issues include commitment of staffing and financial resources to online services; developing and maintaining web technology skills; reclaiming the web from information technology departments; individual effort vs collaboration. Edited version of a paper given at the Alia Information online 11th exhibition and conference Sydney January 2003. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Volunteers form a significant part of the contribution libraries make to their communities. This paper considers the way libraries recruit, train and retain volunteers so that the process can be an enriching and rewarding one for all concerned. In particular, public libraries need to be reconsidering their attitudes to volunteers in the context of the potential capabilities of the baby boomers. Edited version of a paper presented at the Next Chapters conference, State Library of NSW 1-2 May 2009. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The learning landscape of the 21st century provides opportunities, challenges and multiple possibilities for librarians as educators, and as facilitators for communities in a world of knowledge and wisdom. Charted are this landscape and what it means for librarians as leaders and practitioners. This paper, as the starting point for the Learning for all conference, aims to take a broad brush approach to painting the learning landscape that all libraries form a part of; it then focuses on one critical issue for libraries in their learning role -- collaboration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

'Finding MY Place' (FMP) is a library based program designed to assist some of the most disadvantaged members of the community -- young people who are disengaging from the school system before they complete a reasonable level of education. With its origins in Western Australia, this paper looks at the program as it has been adapted by Fairfield City Library and partnering agencies. Run as a series of motivational workshops held in the library or, at times, as an excursion, the program aims to engage these young people with the broader community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hobsons Bay Libraries in Melbourne has undertaken three major developments in the last five years and is in detailed design for another to commence in late 2012. Each features a joint use or collocated aspect to its operation. Altona Meadows was fully integrated with a neighbourhood house. Altona North is collocated with Bayside P-9 College. Williamstown Library is currently being linked physically and operationally to the Williamstown Town Hall, a premier arts and cultural venue. The Newport Hub will bring the library together with an existing youth facility, a seniors building, a maternal and child health centre and programmed activity groups centre. The governance challenges for each of these is unique. Outlined are the benefits of having a strong framework that has a clear, joint purpose; the experiences of the Hobsons Bay team; and what they have learned from their successes and failures. Edited version of a paper presented at 'Connection and convergence: second international conference on joint use libraries' Adelaide SA 3-4 November 2011 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Hervey Bay Library opened in March 1998 as the first joint use university/public library in Australia. It is soon to be dissolved, despite the economic, community and cultural benefits which it has provided. The reasons for this dissolution are explored. Principal among them is that the new library's building was a compromised funding convenience for its partners, particularly the local authority, which did not provide a solid foundation for a productive lasting relationship. This emphasises that sharing the costs of construction to benefit the joint use library is only the beginning of a meaningful long term collaboration requiring a shared vision and philosophy, resilience, adaptability and cooperation. Edited version of a paper presented at 'Connection and convergence: second international conference on joint use libraries' Adelaide SA 3-4 November 2011 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Australia has four major library sectors, public, academic, school and special. All of those sectors have major strengths and rate well by world standards. Many new and redeveloped buildings have been constructed in them. The academic libraries have been strongly focused on the information/learning commons concept, electronic resources and information literacy education. Public libraries are now available to everyone in Australia, and are receiving increasing attention and new buildings as multidimensional centres for community learning capacity growing. School libraries have many new buildings and a strong focus on information literary education but they often now have inadequate teacher librarian and library technician staff and resources. School library needs were reviewed during 2011 by a committee of inquiry of the Australian federal parliament. Special libraries have experienced cutbacks and institutional changes and mergers but the sector continues to innovate and grow in areas such as law libraries. Australia has the benefit of a strong multisectoral professional library association based in the national capital Canberra, and which is helping all sectors to address areas such as the ageing and education of the profession, library education, professional development, and advocacy. Australia also unusually has a national association for Friends of Australian Libraries to focus citizen advocacy for stronger investment in public libraries in particular. A challenge for the Australian library sectors is to become better informed about the issues and many users they have in common, and to collaborate in practice and in advocacy for better, more accessible, libraries for all. Revised version of a paper commissioned by the French 'Bulletin des Bibliotèques de France' and published in its number 6, 2011 pp59-63. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The city of Onkaparinga library network in South Australia consists of six libraries, three of which are joint use. The largest of the joint use libraries is Noarlunga (a Tafe/public library), followed by The Hub (a secondary school/public library) and Seaford (a 6-12 school/public library). Each of the joint use libraries represents a unique model of partnership with characteristics that have shaped and defined them, their operational success and their ability to achieve their goals. Involvement with these libraries (and other joint use library ventures outside this network) has given the opportunity to observe and assess the factors that have contributed to their success, or otherwise, and to identify those critical to them. The primary factor is the joint use agreement, complemented by the adeptness with which a library manager uses it. Edited version of a paper presented at 'Connection and convergence: second international conference on joint use libraries' Adelaide SA 3-4 November 2011 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Public libraries will survive and thrive by recognising their changing role. With the digital world of content, the role is shifting to that of content aggregators, access managers, and educators in digital literacy. Often pc skills workshops are filled with the same people who demonstrate digital dexterity in the knitting and quilting groups, but lack a new kind of digital dexterity in making a mouse or touch pad do what they want it to do. The questions public libraries have challenging them are 'what will be the future mix between digital and physical access to content and services', 'what service model will we adopt or adapt', and 'who has the skills to teach in the digital environment'? This paper is based on a presentation made to the city of Sydney's library staff development day 13 March 2012. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Hobsons Bay Libraries Family History Group draws together interested people on a monthly basis giving maximum returns for minimum outlay. By offering themes as diverse as its community and alternating between training in resources such as library ancestry and specialist guest speakers a broad, popular and responsive program is provided for the community. Each session includes afternoon tea, a forum for feedback and suggestions for future meetings. The added benefit to the library is the creation of a relevant and enthusiastic focus group giving members of the community the opportunity to build social networks around common interests. Edited paper presented at the conference A sense of place: local studies in Australia and New Zealand Sydney 5-6 May 2011. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wanneroo's Community History Centre opened in 2009 as part of the new Wanneroo Library and Cultural Centre, a hybrid library/museum/ archive/arts development, housing a library, museum, exhibition gallery and public venue spaces. It is an integral part of the Wanneroo Regional Museum and was started from scratch, which offered an opportunity to assess and adopt best practice standards for online photographs, the digitisation of oral histories, the preservation of newspapers and photographs and the arrangement of archival material. Edited paper presented at the conference A sense of place: local studies in Australia and New Zealand Sydney 5-6 May 2011. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There has never been a better time to be a researcher. So much material is being digitised, indexed and made easily accessible for research. Many researchers can work from the comfort of their own home, so how do we ensure that local studies collections remain appropriate and appealing? Over the years, Hawkesbury Library has encouraged interaction with researchers and as a result the local studies collection has gone from strength to strength. Other strategies to keep the collection relevant include promotion of collection strengths; educating the community about resources; assisting local and family historians to be better researchers and engaging the community with events and programs that have a history focus. Hawkesbury Library does not have all of the answers but has risen to the challenge facing all local studies collections. Edited paper presented at the conference A sense of place: local studies in Australia and New Zealand Sydney 5-6 May 2011. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a pressing need for public libraries to create indexes and resources relating to their local area. They can no longer rely on historical societies or genealogy groups to produce pamphlets or local histories to be catalogued and put into their collections. They need to be proactive and instigate these projects, whether they do the work themselves or use volunteers. The resources produced then need to be accessible online via library websites, thus creating a virtual sense of place. Edited version of a paper presented at A sense of place: local studies in Australia and New Zealand conference Sydney 5-6 May 2011. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wairarapa Archive, established in 1989, is part of the Masterton Library business unit. It is a community archive focused on an active outreach program. Staff present to community groups and schools, write numerous newspaper and magazine articles and have overseen a publishing program of 17 titles in 12 years. A digital strategy community partnership project, Picture Wairarapa, was completed in July 2010 with 6000 images, of one million held. These are available with full metadata, and contributed to Matapihi and Digital New Zealand websites. Kete Masterton, administered by the library, and Picture Wairarapa are linked to provide additional information and teachers resources. All year 7 and 8 students undertake a local history project with the archivist presenting class preparation sessions and working with students through the process. About 2000 researchers a year sign in to use the archive, which also holds a large digital oral history repository. Edited version of a paper presented at A sense of place: local studies in Australia and New Zealand conference Sydney 5-6 May 2011. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On most days in Wentworth Shire Library, 300 metres from the junction of the Murray-Darling rivers, you will find volunteers from the Wentworth Historical Society busy researching queries, accessioning donations and indexing records. Pastoral station, riverboat trade, local government, church, community and family history records are housed in archival conditions in the Jeff Whyte Local History Room, publicly accessible during library hours. The relationship between the library and historical society, integrating local history and community in a comfortable atmosphere, reflects our sense of place. Edited version of a paper presented at A sense of place: local studies in Australia and New Zealand conference Sydney 5-6 May 2011. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In July 2008 the Orange Family History Group entered into a partnership with Central West Libraries in NSW to merge its activities and resources into the library's infrastructure. This has been a win/win for both parties, and for family and local historians. The members still meet but now have time to focus on matters of interest, rather than administrative issues. Together, exciting projects have been developed which allow for rewarding volunteering and which deliver great benefits to clients. Most importantly, through the expertise and enthusiasm of the members, it has been possible to value add to the reference and research service. Edited version of a paper presented at A sense of place: local studies in Australia and New Zealand conference Sydney 5-6 May 2011. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]