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library services
The Library services consist of Circulation (Audio and Braille) and Cataloguing.
The section is responsible for the following:
- Managing and maintaining the electronic Library Management System of the Library
- Liaising with library members and issue and receive library material and reading devices
- Developing and maintaining the library collection through the selection of quality material
- Administrating Copyright Management matters
- Cataloguing library material to make it accessible
- Administrating Interlibrary Loans from international suppliers
- Members – Application form
- Interlibrary loan request (ILL)
- Reading Club
catalogue
Audio Production
This section is responsible for:
- Producing and copying newly narrated reading material in accessible audio formats based on acceptable quality standards
- Converting the existing analogue audio collection to a more accessible and user-friendly digital audio medium
- Converting, producing and copying of various print magazines to the digital audio medium
- Supplying the Library Services Section with sufficient numbers of audio copies
- Research alternatives sources of audio material to be incorporated into the Library’s audio collection.
- Incorporate the use of new and existing specialized technologies, systems, equipment and audio formats to enhance the reading experiences of our blind and vision impaired readers
Braille Production
This section is responsible for:
- Producing high quality Braille material in all the official South African languages according to applicable standards
- Training of staff to mater the scarce braille skills
- Printing, binding, and repairing of braille books
- Research and implement the most appropriate technologies to produce braille material
Production support services
This section is responsible for:
- Appointing, training, monitoring and coordinating all volunteers and temporary staff assisting the library with the production of audio and Braille titles
- To control print copies received, distribution and catalogued
- Ensuring the quality control of production ( new and analogue to digital titles), best practices and work flow to the Braille and Audio Production sections
- Keeping abreast with the latest software and hardware in Braille and audio production and providing advice where applicable
- Dealing with external clients who need material to be produced in audio or Braille, on a commercial basis
Quotes
This service is offered to all organizations, students or businesses who need information in an alternative format i.e audio or braille. We will assess the literature and determine the viability of putting it into either audio or braille and supply a quotation to the client. For our own members who require material we will offer a reduced pricing structure.
Karen Maréchal
Email: pss {at} salb.org(.)za
Braille Consultancy
The Library’s statutory mandate goes beyond the production of Braille. It encompasses an additional function of standards setting, including the following tasks performed by this section:
- In collaboration with the standard setting body for Braille, develop and align Braille systems according to international standards
- Drafting, researching and publishing of reference manuals and bulletins containing rules and information about the production of Braille
- Assisting production houses, schools and educators with technical Braille production problems
- Promoting and supporting Braille as a tool for literacy and communication
- Facilitating and overseeing the production of tactile books
Information Technology and Technical Services
Technical
- Repairing analogue and digital playback devices as well as any other electronic equipment
- Building maintenance and liaison with the Department of Public Works
- Managing and administrating the transport and vehicle needs of the Library
- Ensuring the Library complies with the Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993
Information Technology
- Supporting the technological requirements of the Library and its users
- Guiding the Library on new IT developments to be implemented
- Liaising with external IT providers on services & products
Marketing
The Library’s Marketing Section is responsible for:
- Marketing and promoting the Library’s products and services
- Producing and distributing marketing material and newsletters
- Overseeing the production of outsourced marketing material
- Participation in public events to raise the profile of the Library
Management Services
This section is primarily responsible for providing support to the SALB Board, the Director and all section heads of the Library. It is responsible for recording, reporting and providing relevant information required by the Public Finance Management Act and various other legislation relating to finance and human resources.
The section comprises:
- Financial Management and fundraising
- Human Resources Management and Development
- Administration and Cleaning services