National recognition for Highland Libraries

20th May 2010

The excellence of The Highland Council's Library service in implementing new technology has won national recognition.

Highland Libraries has become the first Library Service in Scotland to receive accreditation by the E4libraries project. An independent review panel recognised the Service's proven success in using information technology to streamline the ordering process, source catalogue records, and introduce self-service facilities.

The accreditation scheme enables libraries to demonstrate their expertise in the area of systems and library technology and their successes in implementing beneficial technologies which have improved services while reducing costs.

Councillor Bill Fernie, Chairman of the Council's Education, Culture and Sport Committee said: "Congratulations to our staff in the Library Service who provide us with all the excellent modern technology at our fingertips not only at home on our own computers but throughout the entire library network. Our thanks go especially to those who work behind the scenes who provide all excellent support that has attracted this national accreditation."

Joyce Watson, Library and Information Services Co-ordinator says "It's no surprise to me that Highland Libraries is one of the libraries across the UK who have gained this recognition. On many occasions over the years our library service has used innovative technologies to streamline practices and improve delivery of services right across the Highlands."

E4libraries is managed by Book Industry Communications, an independent organisation set up and sponsored by the Publishers Association, Booksellers Association, the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals and the British Library to promote supply chain efficiency in all sectors of the book world through e-commerce and the application of standard processes and procedures.

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Councillor Bill Fernie, Chairman of The Highland Council's Education, Culture and Sport Committee congratulates John Dempster, Senior Librarian Systems Support on the E4libraries award.