HDLs are installing Radio Frequency ID technology. 

This means we will be installing new self check machines in each facility.  

The self-check machines will look and work a little differently, but the process is much like the current ones. 

Hastings, Havelock North and Flaxmere libraries will be closed for one day each in the week starting May 24, to allow new technology to be installed that will improve the service provided to library users.

In the biggest upgrade of library equipment for more than a decade, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is being introduced across the entire collection.

This is up-to-date technology that uses a wireless radio system to transfer data to help manage the collection.

The upgrade will include new self-check machines that will allow customers to issue multiple books at once, increased security of library items and a host of other features.

Every single item in the collection has had to be “converted” by hand, which involves physically adding RFID tags to every book, DVD, and CD in all the libraries, about 220,000 items in total.

One of the final parts of the installation process is quite complex and involves removing old hardware and installation of the new. because of this it means we'll have disrupted opening times at Havelock North and Flaxmere libraries, as well as interrupted access at Hastings libraries. Here are the dates and times that affect each branch:

Late Openings and Interruptions:

Flaxmere Library: Monday 21 June – Opens at 11am

Hastings War Memorial Library: Tuesday 22 June/Wednesday 23 June - Only one entrance will be open at a time

Carpark entrance will be closed  to begin with on Tuesday morning. Entry to the library will be via the Hall of Memories. On completion of installation work at this entrance the Hall of Memories will close and the carpark entry opened. Both entrances will be open as normal by Thursday morning.

Havelock North Library: Thursday 24 June – Opens at 11am

Thank you for your patience during this time.