Blue Mountains News

The launch of the Blue Mountains Library app is the latest technology upgrade in a series of programs that are helping to modernise the library and improve customer experiences in borrowing and returning items, while also extending access for remote residents.

The new app gives members access to the digital library collection anywhere, on any device. The app also provides an enhanced user experience with a digital library card feature and the ability to link accounts and create your own personalised ‘to be read’ list, with an integrated reading tracker that helps users track, manage, and monitor their reading habits in one place.

The Library 2U program introduces library lockers and high-speed community Satellite WiFi into remote Blue Mountains communities. It will directly support bushfire recovery and resilience efforts by providing a vital communications safety net for times of emergency.

Library 2U has already seen the installation of these technologies at Megalong Valley Community Hall, and the next phase of the program will launch at Mount Wilson Community Hall next week with an event on Saturday 28 June.

Blue Mountains Mayor Mark Greenhill said: “Public libraries are a vital service, and the Blue Mountains Library continues to be one of the most popular public library services in the state.

“Our libraries are essential and vibrant community hubs, offering spaces for social inclusion and opportunities to connect with information, technology, culture and learning.

“While demand for library collections continues to grow, we’ve also seen an increase in the demand for diversity in our programming and greater flexibility in how the community can access library services.

“The launch of the new Blue Mountains Library app and the expansion of the Library 2U project deliver those services our community wants and needs, making it easier than ever for everyone to access our library’s catalogue, programs and services from anywhere in the region.

“Whether you're a member, a regular visitor, or you've never been to one of our branches, there’s never been a better or easier time to check yourself back in to Blue Mountains Library.”

The Blue Mountains Library app is free and can be download from the Google Play and Apple App Stores. 

Residents in Mt Wilson and Megalong Valley will be able to make library reservations by phone or online for delivery to Library2U lockers every four weeks.

Blue Mountains City Council has six public library branches, located in Blaxland, Springwood, Lawson, Wentworth Falls, Katoomba and Blackheath.

The Library2U & Community Satellite WiFi project is funded by the Federal Government’s Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Grants Program.

Find out more about what Blue Mountains Library offers including the Library 2U project and the new app: here