The Macao Public Library network, which comprises 16 libraries, has launched a free book delivery service in line with the policy direction of the government’s “Ten-Year Plan for Rehabilitation Services from 2016 to 2025”, according to a statement from the Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC) on Tuesday.
The statement did not say when the service got off the ground.
The recently launched book delivery service targets social service organisations that provide rehabilitation services, non-profit organisations and schools to promote the public’s reading habits, the statement said.
According to the statement, the Public Library has already received book delivery service applications from two social service organisations, two schools and a retirement home. The Public Library urged other entities to apply for the service.
According to the statement, the new service enables readers to request books to be delivered from any of the city’s public libraries to the organisations, schools and disabled residents’ homes. The Public Library has notified social service organisations that provide rehabilitation services about the book delivery service, while non-profit organisations and schools can apply for the service in writing. Upon approval of the application, a book delivery account initially valid for 10 years will be opened.
The participating entities can select books either online from the Public Library’s catalogue or directly from any of its branch libraries or Central Book Depository. Only bulk deliveries will be accepted. However, the statement did not indicate the minimum number of books for delivery.
For each delivery, the Public Library allows up to 200 library items to be borrowed each time from the organisations and schools for a period of 60 days. The Public Library also delivers books directly to the homes of disabled residents who are members of social services organisations that provide rehabilitation services.
The members can borrow up to five library items for a period of 14 days, which can be extended once, the statement said.
The statement underlined that the public should handle the borrowed items with care. Concerning late returns and damaged and lost books, the Public Library’s regulations apply. For enquiries, call 2837 7117 during office hours or check the Public Library’s website www.library.gov.mo.
Apart from its 16 branches, the Public Library also runs a “special library” on the first floor of the headquarters of the Macao Municipal Affairs Bureau (IAM), the Senado Library. The Public Library network belongs to the Macao Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC).
(The Macau Post Daily/Macao News)
Photo by Government Information Bureau (GCS)
