WOULD you be interested in working away at Bathurst Library all through the night?
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That could be a possibility if an idea put forward by councillor Jess Jennings gains traction.
Cr Jennings has suggested that Bathurst Library become a 24/7 service, being available to members whenever is most convenient for them.
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There are many libraries that have incorporated this concept, but Cr Jennings was particularly inspired by the library at Bathurst's Charles Sturt University (CSU) campus.
"As a research fellow at CSU, I have access to the library up there and all the students have access 24/7, and I do occasionally use it out of hours," he said.
"I also came across a radio interview which included a feature on a library in Victoria that was doing it. It was on the future of libraries, and I wouldn't be surprised if 24/7 access is the norm across the public library network around the world in 10 years time.
"I'd like to see us lead the charge."
He said, given that the library is one of Bathurst Regional Council's most-used assets, it makes sense for it to be even more accessible to the public.
Under his idea, the library would continue to be staffed during its current operating hours, but outside of those times there would be no staff.
Instead, members would let themselves in using an electronic swipe card-style system, and have access to books and computers.
"I think it would definitely be the same. You wouldn't have staff on the desk, that's the only difference, but you'd still be able to borrow items. They'd still go under your name and you'd have to return them on time; the normal rules apply," Cr Jennings said.
The benefit of the extend hours would ensure that people who are unable to access library resources during the daytime still have the opportunity to utilise what is available.
"It just makes it more accessible for more people," Cr Jennings said.
He initially raised the idea at the February policy committee meeting of council.
Since then, some councillors have indicated to him that they would support the idea, but he's still waiting to find out from council staff how feasible it is and the budget implications.
Cr Jennings said there would be some costs involved initially, but if usage increases then the return on investment will be very high.
He also acknowledged that council would need to increase security to limit the likelihood of damage when staff aren't on site.
"There are a number of features around already, but there would have to be an increase of some sort," he said.
Cr Jennings is interested to know what community members think of the 24/7 idea.
