The Halton Hills Public Library's (HHPL) short story dispenser project is being recognized provincially.
The initiative was recently named the winner of the Ontario Library and Information Technology Association (OLITA) Technology Advancing Libraries Award.
The aware is bestowed on a library project that demonstrates leadership in the application of technology to benefit library users, enhance library operations and extend partnerships. Any library of any size including schools, universities, colleges, corporate and public libraries is eligible to participate.
The HHPL’s short story dispenser project combines new technology with an online short story portal created by French publishing house Short Édition. The initiative promotes local history and encourages contributions from the public, in addition to bringing short stories, poems, comics and more from across Canada and around the world to the residents of Halton Hills.
Every month the selection of available stories changes to highlight different themes and events. To date, the library has distributed over 2,000 stories to the community.
“This award is an incredible honour and demonstrates our commitment to working with our community,” said HHPL Chief Librarian and CEO Beverley King.
“With the dispenser, we are not just distributing stories - we are fostering a sense of community, celebrating our history, supporting local talent and inspiring a love for literature in the hearts of our patrons.”
The dispenser is currently located in the Georgetown branch and will move to the Acton branch and a variety of locations throughout Halton Hills. The accompanying short story portal is available through the Halton Hills Public Library website.
For more information, visit the HHPL site here.
