The Libraries of the Asia Pacific website has been redeveloped by the National Library of Australia to give the member libraries the ability to update and amend their own entries. The new site was unveiled in mid-May at http://www.nla.gov.au/lap

The site features a search facility, updated information pages, a form allowing libraries not in the database to add their details, as well as the password-controlled edit facility.  During the week of May 19-23, all libraries with current entries were sent details of the new site, together with their password, and a printout of their current entry.  Those with web access can now make use of their password to update and expand their entries.  Those without access to the Internet, or who experience any difficulties, can include their amendments on the paper copy of the record and send it back to the National Library of Australia.  It is particularly important that contact and address details are correct, because LAP is a major source for this sort of information.  The new site provides an opportunity to also add quite a lot of detail about individual libraries and their collections. 

A photograph of the library can also now be incorporated in the LAP record, and a number of images received in the past have now been added to records in LAP. 

The updated entries for Pacific countries will feature in a new edition of the printed Directory of libraries and archives in the Pacific Islands.  Arlene Cohen from the University of Guam has funding from IFLA to produce the printed directory, which is planned for the end of this year.  It is hoped all libraries will take the opportunity to provide updates to their entries.  Information received after August 1 will be incorporated into the online directory, but will not be included in the revised printed directory. 

Any queries about the new website, or the addition or updating of entries, can be directed to : 

Libraries of the Asia Pacific 
Coordination Support Branch 
National Library of Australia 
Canberra  ACT  2600 
AUSTRALIA 
lap@nla.gov.au
fax: +612 2 6273 2545