Aotearoa NZ People's Network
providing free access to broadband internet for communities
The Buller District Council is proud to be a partner of the People's Network project. Both the Westport and Reefton libraries are participating in this significant project to establish a New Zealand People's Network, centered on public libraries in New Zealand.
The Aotearoa New Zealand People’s Network is about providing free access to broadband internet services in public libraries so that all New Zealanders can benefit from creating, accessing and experiencing digital content. The Aotearoa’s New Zealand People’s Network will benefit anyone who has access to a public library – it will open up the digital world to all people and communities by giving them access to the web, providing computers and training. They will be able to learn new skills, carry out research, contact family and friends through email, or find information.
Buller District Librarian Michaela Bodesheim values the new modern technology for the libraries: “ Aotearoa NZ People's Network will complement and enhance traditional library services."
Public libraries throughout the country are participating in the development of the People's Network in partnership with the National Library. The work is being funded by the Government's Digital Strategy. The project will involve the provision of computers, hardware, software and connections in public libraries all over the country.
The Westport library is equipped with five internet terminals, with another two at Reefton library. All the People's Network terminals will have high speed internet connections.
As well as providing access to content, the Aotearoa NZ People's Network provide tools and a platform for individuals to create and store their own content. For example, a grandmother from Waimangaroa could set up her own web account with the help of her local librarian and then upload photos of her grandchildren so her family around the world can access them. She might deposit family stories in the community content repository where they will be stored for future descendants. Likewise, her grandchildren in Selwyn could upload their latest digital photos and share them with Grandma.
In September 2008 the Westport Library has been expanding their broadband access with a wireless hotspot (WiFi) within their building. Customers, students or businesspeople can now use a WiFi during library hours.
Sue Thomson Casey Memorial Library in Westport belongs to a growing number of public libraries to offer the service and the library team is delighted to have capacities for the increasing demand of accessing online resources.
WiFi access is also available for training or presentation purposes at the Westport Library meeting room!
For more information on the People's Network library project, check out the project website at www.peoplesnetworknz.org.nz/.
