4 May 1997

Library displays its dual roles

The State Library of South Australia was both heritage keeper of the past and navigational educator into the future, the director, Fran Awcock, said today.

She was speaking in relation to the launch of Australian Library Week, from Sunday 4 May to Saturday 10 May.

'With its theme of Libraries: a Web of Information, during this week Australian libraries are celebrating the lively role they play in shaping and extending opportunities for millions of Australians,' Ms Awcock said.

'People can learn, discover and be informed and entertained by many of the global resources now available to them.'

The State Library of South Australia's contribution to Australian Library Week was two-pronged, she said.

The display, Treasures of the State Library, on the one hand, would be the focus of tours and talks, and Internet sessions would be available with expert staff to demonstrate the Net's powers and possibilities.

'In this way, we are showing the diverse roles the State Library plays,' the director said.

'One role is based on its heritage, the other on its contemporary role as information provider, educator and navigator.'