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The opening of a new purpose-built library ends a long wait for
the people of Caldicot. The old library occupied a temporary building
placed on the site in 1975. Although it served the growing community
well the cramped conditions made it increasingly difficult to
provide a modern library service.
In contrast the new building has been designed to provide a full
range of services, making use of the most up-to-date technology.
Situated near to shops, car park and other Council offices the
library opens a new era for provision in Caldicot.
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| Designed by Gwent County
Council and Monmouthshire County Council Property Services Departments
the building provides easy access to disabled people, with all facilities
on one level. The numerous windows make the function of the building
immediately apparent and allows attractive glimpses of the services
offered within. |
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| Information Centre |
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Entering through the large foyer which can be
used for displays and exhibitions the first impression is of lightness
and space. The circulation area, immediately inside the automatic
doors, is fully computerised. An unobtrusive electronic stock
security system is installed and staff are able to monitor the
whole building through closed circuit television. For people who
have impaired hearing a loop system is fitted.
To the left of the entrance is a well stocked
information centre containing a wealth of sources, both printed
and electronic. An enquiry desk is situated here so that staff
can help customers to make the best use of the facilities.
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| Adjacent to this area
are a number of computer terminals providing public access via the
internet and networked CD-ROM to a world of knowledge and information.
In addition to these a personal computer can be hired for use in
the library and a colour copier and fax machine are available. |
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| Childrens' Library |
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| The large and lively
children's library takes up much of the remainder of this side of
the building. As well as providing a carefully chosen range of printed
material for all ages, there are videos and books-on-tape and CD-ROMS. |
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| For younger children
the fire engine in the under 5's area provides an attractive focal
point along with toys and games provided. Feature kinderboxes and
animal floor cushions help young people to browse in comfort. |
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| Music and Videos |
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| Immediately opposite
the counter a specially designed area displays entertainment videos
and music on compact disc and cassette. Information videos can be
found in the appropriate place. |
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| Books and Magazines |
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The books for adults in both normal and large print occupy the
area to the right of the counter. Novels and other fiction are
on the free standing shelves with factual books mainly around
the walls. Paperback spinners and other display furniture are
used to feature special sections of the stock.
The on-line public access terminal can be used to discover which
books and other items the library holds and those which are available
in other Monmouthshire libraries.
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| Youth |
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An area for teenagers and young people is provided near to the
foyer on the exit side of the counter. As well as books the area
has a "listening post" where the latest albums on CD
can be sampled and a specialised youth information database.
This part of the library is also the base for the youth workers
who form part of the staff team.
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| Other Services |
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| Next to the
teenage section is an informal area, through the door are toilets
and a meeting room. The toilets are accessible to wheelchair users
and each has baby changing facilities. The meeting room has been
designed for use when the main library is closed. During the first
year of operation it was used as the studio of the library's artist-in-residence. |
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| Opening Times |
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Tuesday 9.30 - 20.00
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Wednesday 10.00 - 17.30
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Thursday 9.30 - 17.30
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Friday 9.30 - 17.30
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Saturday 9.30 - 16.00
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