Haven’t you wondered how a library can revolutionize a system? Bukit Batok Public Library did just that. Let’s step inside the story of this special place.
Bukit Batok Public Library stands in West Mall. It is more than just a place for books. It’s a community hub. It’s a place of innovation. It was once known as Bukit Batok Community Library until 2008.
The library officially opened on November 21, 1998. Deputy Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong was there. He recognized its importance to the community.
In 1998, Bukit Batok Public Library made history. It became the first library to use the Radio Frequency Identification system. This is also known as RFID. It was a game-changer.
The RFID Electronic Library Management System managed book tracking. It also handled distribution and circulation. Singapore Technologies LogiTrack and the National Library Board developed the system together.
This new tech allowed immediate book processing. As books returned via automated book-drops, loan records updated instantly. Readers could borrow again right away. Before, they waited up to 30 minutes.
The ELiMS was revolutionary. It was the world’s first fully integrated RFID library system in public libraries. The National Library Board expected to save up to S$50 million yearly with it.
Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand visited in February 1999. She came to see the library’s cutting-edge technology. She was very impressed.
Bukit Batok Public Library has a large collection. As of 2014, it held 166,925 books and audiovisual materials. It provides various sections. There is a customer service counter. An adult and young people’s section is available. There is also a special children’s area. An activity room and multimedia stations enrich the library.
The library provides several facilities. These include e-kiosks for questions and payments. Six borrowing stations are available. Two book-drop services offer convenience. Shelves hold books and magazines in four languages. Multimedia services are also available.
Storytelling sessions are a hit for children. They happen every Tuesday and Thursday. Adults join the Heartlands Book Club. It invites authors to discuss their books. The club enriches literary experiences.
Bukit Batok Public Library underwent renovations in 2011. Enhancements included moving the service counter. They created a digital service area. The newspaper reading area expanded. They also improved lighting and carpeting.
Currently, the Bukit Batok Public Library is closed for a revamp. It started on December 31, 2023. It is expected to open by the end of 2025. The revamp will double its size. It will introduce new spaces for reading and learning.
While closed, patrons can use alternative services. These include a wallpaper library and new book dispensers. Patrons can also access NLB’s e-resources via a mobile app.
Bukit Batok Public Library’s story is one of innovation. It is also one of community service. It will continue to inspire readers for years to come.