Brief Remarks by Mrs Elaine Ng, Chief Executive Office, National Library Board, at Bedok Public Library's Official Re-Opening, Saturday, 28 October 2017

Minister Yaacob Ibrahim

Board Members

Distinguished guests, friends and patrons of the library,

Good morning. It is great to see so many of you here today for the re-opening of Bedok Public Library.

2 We know that the library is close to the hearts of Bedok residents. That is why we have redesigned the library to be even more welcoming and friendly for patrons of all ages.

3 You may have noticed the ‘greenery’ theme of the new library, from the ‘supertrees’ here at the entrance lobby, to a cheerful garden at the Early Literacy space and lush hills at the Teens’ Space. We hope your library visits will be as relaxing and inspiring as being out in nature.

4 In redesigning the library, we studied the demographic profile of Bedok, which showed a high proportion of senior residents. I am pleased to share that this library will have senior-focused services including catalogue machines with larger alphabets, and even a special video magnifier, which can enlarge the words in newspapers, magazines or books. We tested this with some of our seniors and they gave us their thumbs up!

5 We also have a dedicated Learning Zone where everyone, including seniors can enjoy classes and programmes in a comfortable space. The Learning Zone can also host digital literacy programmes such as the new Seniors Tech and Read, or STAR.  Under this programme, seniors can book individual sessions with our volunteers to learn more about our eResources and reading.

6 Like our other libraries, this library will also host a range of activities for patrons of all ages. When you enter the library today, it is hard to miss the new Programme Room. You can look forward to many interesting programmes.

7 Many of you will also be excited to know that we are continuing with our strong Malay collection with a dedicated space on the second floor. The Malay collection will be home to reading materials not only in Malay, but also in English, Chinese and Tamil.

8 Our young readers will have fun exploring the bright and cheery Early Literacy area. With Its playful garden theme, it is the perfect place for parents and their children to enjoy a good book together.

9 For teens, we have a quirky study area with a huge, sloping study table integrated with book collections. So even if you come here just to study, you could end up stumbling upon an interesting new book to read!

10 I am also pleased to announce that we are launching the Hour of Code today. A collaboration between Apple, Infocomm Media Development Authority and National Library Board, this initiative aims to demystify coding and introduce computer science to anyone above the age of 50. We are starting this programme today across 17 public libraries including Bedok Public Library. Each session will be conducted by an Apple facilitator and participants will be paired with a volunteer and guided on coding.

11 I hope you will enjoy rediscovering Bedok Public Library, not just today, but over the weeks and months to come.

12 Thank you.