National Library Board 1 Temasek Ave #06-00 Millenia Tower S(039 192) Tel: 332 3133 Fax: 332 3332

To expand the learning capacity of the nation so as to enhance national competitiveness and to promote a gracious society

To deliver a world-class library system which is convenient, accessible and useful to the people of Singapore

Provide the infrastructure to meet the rising expectations of library users Boost and update collections, increase the range of audio- visual and multimedia materials, and strengthen the learning resources for adult education, the business community and researchers Use information technology to re-engineer services and build a nation-wide inter-library network to enable access to the collections of all publicly-funded libraries Make the scheme of service for staff as competitive as jobs of the same genre, and invest in talents for the future Create and promote awareness of the importance of information and provide skills training in accessing it This is the first Annual Report of the National Library Board (NLB). Just a year and a half old, the Board has already done much to meet the challenge of creating an island-wide network of libraries which will usher Singapore into the next millennium.

The NLB draws inspiration from the statement made by Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong in his 1993 National Day Message - that "the future belongs to countries whose people make the most productive use of information, knowledge and technology".

The Board’s mission is to bolster Singapore’s capacity and currency as a learning nation by providing a vital framework for easy access to information and knowledge. Such a framework will enhance and expand the nation’s quest for continued progress and economic success.

From our regional library in Tampines to the modern community and neighbourhood libraries, we are constantly aware that our role is a multi-faceted one: keeping the country on the cutting edge with the latest in information and knowledge; delivering such information in a timely, efficient and convenient manner; and instilling habits such as learning and inquiry, curiosity, initiative and research.

We also have the responsibility of being a repository and reflection of our culture and heritage. The richness and depth of our various cultures are contained within our walls. Such a heritage should however not be merely archived and stored, but transmitted through ever new and exciting media, allowing it to shape the future.

We currently offer a collection of more than four million books, and more than 16,000 serial titles in English, Chinese, Malay and Tamil. We also provide an extensive range of audio-visual and special materials to cater to varied tastes and needs.

Our increasing membership in recent years is testimony to the fact that libraries continue to remain relevant in our lives. Indeed, over the last year, more than 130,000 people became members, bringing our total membership to 1.2 million.

But as a new world of information brokerage unfolds, numbers no longer reign supreme. It is not enough to have large quantities of materials and resources. The challenge is to put people in touch with these resources, and empower the individual simultaneously. Making information more accessible and palatable is now paramount in the library business. Our recognition of this is evident in the most public of our activities - the establishment of shopping mall libraries.

Step into the Jurong West, Choa Chu Kang or Cheng San Community Libraries housed in shopping malls in the heart of new towns. The ultra-modern layout, the row upon row of crisp, new books, the use of state-of-the-art technology from self-check kiosks to Internet terminals, and the proficient library professionals speak of a library on the edge of a new millennium. Each of these libraries receives nearly 5,000 visitors a day and up to 8,000 on weekends. It is evident that Singaporeans are not strangers to these libraries of the future, but familiar with their environment.

Taking us a step further, the Board envisions a borderless library where information, now digitised, is exchanged as easily and quickly as making a phone call, thereby bringing the library to the user.

Efforts in this direction are seen in the varied applications of IT. For instance, the Public Access Network System (PANS) links all catalogues together, enabling access through a single terminal. The establishment and promotion of TiARA (Timely information for All in a Relevant and Affordable manner), a world-wide on-line information retrieval service, and Singapore Information Resources On-line (SIRO), all herald a new means of information delivery. We have also set up a Library Phone-In service which allows the checking and reservation of books and a book Home Delivery service. We have begun to shape the library of tomorrow today.

For those who worry that technology misses the human component, our reassurance is that we incorporate the technological component into the human. Never losing sight of the importance of the individual, we also recognise that the world expands for those who are conversant in using the tools of technology. We therefore bring these opportunities to all, advocating old values in new ways. Ours is a new humanism - one of infinite choices, exploration and adventures. In our effort to position Singapore as a Renaissance city in the new Asia, we will strive to develop a learning superhighway. Librarians today are trained to be knowledge navigators, helping the public to become more information-fluent. For it is only in becoming a learning nation that Singapore can educate and inspire its people, apply know-how sensibly and attract global talent. Dr Tan Chin Nam Chairman The sense of still having much to do does not daunt the NLB. We are committed to helping Singaporeans race towards the next millennium. It is this exciting mission which we have made ours - to take with us - as we journey with confidence into the future of the Information Age. From left: Dr Paul Cheung, Mr Cherian George, Mr Stephen Yeo, Mr Peter How, Dr Christopher Chia (Chief Executive), Mr Barry Desker, Dr Tan Chin Nam (Chairman), Mr Arun Mahiznan, Mrs Mok Choon Hoe, Prof John Wong, Assoc Prof Bernard Tan, Mr Tan Tee How, Mr Willie Cheng Jue Hiang and Mr Lim Siam Kim Absent: Mr Mafoot Moss Simon and Mr Tooh Fee San

From Left: Mr Lai Yeen Pong, Ms Tay Ai Cheng, Mr Foong Tze Foon, Mr R. Ramachandran, Mr Rishpal Singh, Dr Christopher Chia (Chief Executive), Mr Beh Chew Leng, Mr Chan Ping Wah, Mr Ng Yew Kang, Mr Lim Theam Siew and Ms Ngian Lek Choh Nee Soon East The National Library Board Community Children's (NLB) formed on 1st September Library opened on 2nd National Reading Month December Thomson Community Children's Library Internet@the opened on 10th Library launched December Tampines West Community Children's Library opened on 22nd October Inaugural meeting of the NLB Board on 28th October

Reference Section in branch libraries opened to the public on Sundays Coin-operated self-service locker system was introduced in all libraries Bookdrop service launched The NLB Act was implemented whereby two copies of any locally published material (print and non-print) have to be deposited with NLB Punggol Community Children’s Library opened on 4th February First Staff Forum held on 26th February

Nanyang Community Children’s Library opened on 17th March Reading Conference by Singapore Information Resources On- Dr Caroline Bauer, line (SIRO), a joint project of NLB, “Never Too Young To Read” National Heritage Board & Information held on 13th - 14th April Technology Institute launched on 22nd March Jurong West Community Library, the NLB’s first library in a shopping mall, officially opened by Mr Ho Kah Leong, Senior Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of the Environment, and MP for Jurong on 22nd March

Release of Singapore NLB Logo Launch Periodicals Index on and announcement CD-ROM of government investment of $1 billion on library development on 3rd July Seminar on “Bilingual Reading” on 7th September Opening of the following Community Children’s Libraries: -13th September : Bishan East -15th September : Nee Soon South -28th September : Hong Kah North

Opening of Choa Chu Kang Community Children’s Library on 13th October “Storytelling and Supporting Activities for Preschool Reading” Workshop by Dr Ng “Helping Your Child to Enjoy Reading” Seok Moi on 26th October Workshop by Dr Ng Seok Moi on 2nd November Launch of publication titled “Bukit Merah: From a Hilly Kampong to a Modern Town” on 15th November Opening of the following Community Children’s Libraries: Opening of Woodlands - 3rd November : Tampines East Community Children’s Library - 10th November : Pasir Ris on 15th December - 16th November : Moulmein - 19th November : Eunos

Opening of Choa Chu Kang Community Library by Minister for Health and Minister for the Environment, Mr Yeo Cheow Tong on 22nd February

Second NLB Staff Forum held on 5th March Opening of Cheng San Community Library by MP for Cheng San, Mr Zainul Abidin Rasheed, on 6th March Library Supply Centre set up on 17th March The beginnings of the National Library reach far back into Singapore’s history. It began its life in the year 1960 when library operations were shifted out of what we currently know as the National Museum building, into the well-known red brick landmark structure down Stamford Road. The National Library has made great strides since then. To date, it has established a regional library and 12 community libraries, automated and computerised many of its functions, set up an arts resource centre, and provides audio- visual and Internet services at all its branches.

However, with the information explosion and the need to remain competitive, it was necessary to restructure the National Library to meet the needs of Singaporeans in the 21st century and beyond.

The brainchild of the Library 2000 Review Committee, the National Library Board (NLB) was formed on 1st September 1995 to spearhead the formulation of new policies, strategies and implementation of the recommendations outlined in the Library 2000 Report. The Board was also charged with setting up and administering a world-class library system that would be convenient, accessible and useful in the decades to come. This marked the birth of the NLB, with a mission to expand the learning capacity of the nation so as to enhance national competitiveness and to promote a gracious society.

Establish an adaptive public library system consisting of a network of national reference libraries, a three-tier public library system of regional, community and neighbourhood libraries, assist in the setting up of school libraries, and develop specialised libraries for specific sectors;

Create a network of borderless libraries linking all publicly-funded libraries within Singapore to overseas libraries and information services through computer networking;

Put in place a coordinated national collection strategy;

Offer quality service through market orientation;

Create symbiotic linkages with government, business and the general public; and

Help shape Singapore into a global knowledge hub offering information on regional business and culture.

Establish and maintain libraries, and provide library information services; Promote reading and encourage learning through the use of libraries and their services; Provide a repository for library materials published here; Acquire and maintain a comprehensive collection of library materials relating to Singapore; Establish standards for the training of library personnel; Provide advisory and consultancy services concerning libraries and library information services; Compile and maintain a national union catalogue and a national bibliography; and Advise the Government on national needs and policies in matters relating to publicly-funded libraries, and library and information services.

At the inaugural NLB Board Meeting, a $618-million Phase I development budget was proposed to implement the Library 2000 proposals. This would:

quadruple the library’s collection of books;

treble the library gross floor space; and

use IT to bring the library to readers.

The birth of the NLB was heralded by a new logo which reflects our character and objectives. Modernity, dynamism and the spirit of innovation are symbolically represented in the logo.

The stylised book with flipping pages points to the power of unlimited learning and continuous search for knowledge. The transition from solid pages to pixels traces the evolution from print to electronic media, and represents our commitment to be on the cutting edge of technological development, as well as to improve and expand our services.

The three pages represent the library system’s three-tier concept - regional, community and neighbourhood libraries and the outreach programme to bring information to the doorstep of every household.

In my younger and more vulnerable years, my father gave me some advice that I've been turning over in my mind ever since. "Whenever you feel like criticizing anyone," he told me, "just remember that all the people in this world haven't had the advantages that you've had."

(THE GREAT GATSBY, F SCOTT FITZGERALD) The Board sets its sights on creating a cluster of world-class libraries across Singapore which will eventually, through the medium of information technology, be connected to a global library network.

One of the best examples of bringing libraries closer to the public is seen in the establishment of Community Libraries (CLs) in the newest shopping malls in satellite towns.

The Jurong West CL, housed at Jurong Point, was opened in March 1996. Following that were the Choa Chu Kang CL and Cheng San CL which were opened in February and March 1997, respectively. These libraries offer the best in information packaging and library technology - brand new books, Internet access, CD-ROM services, InTV, Teleview and on-line catalogue services. These, combined with other time-saving devices, such as self- check machines and ticketing systems to speed up the borrowing and returning process, have vastly altered the public image of libraries.

Usage has been extremely encouraging, with an average of 4,000 to 5,000 visitors on a weekday per library, and up to 8,000 a day on weekends in the busier libraries.

To foster a love of reading in the young, the NLB and the PAP Community Foundation (PCF) have since 1993 jointly set up numerous Community Children’s Libraries (CCLs) targeted at children aged ten and below. Located in the void decks of Housing and Development Board (HDB) blocks, the CCLs are literally located at the doorstep of users.

To date there are 20 CCLs scattered about the island. To ensure that the reading habit continues to grow, all CCL members automatically become members of the NLB’s libraries.

A visit to a CCL sees technology bringing information and knowledge to the young. CD-ROMs, computers, art and craft lessons, puppet shows, story-telling sessions and books all combine to fashion a colourful and stimulating environment. In FY 96, the CCLs registered loans of 777,764 books and recruited 13,927 new members.

The Internet@the Library service introduced in collaboration with the National Computer Board gives a novel and quick way of obtaining information. Surfing the Internet at the library is now a favourite pastime with many library members. As an added benefit, the Singapore Information Resources On-line (SIRO) is available at the Jurong West CL, and is also accessible via Internet. SIRO gives users access to a wealth of materials on Singapore at the NLB’s libraries, the National Heritage Board and other information providers. In response to public demand, the loan quota was increased from four to eight items per person in September 1995. Compared to the previous financial year, by end March 1997, loans had increased by 31 per cent to 18.89 million. Self-service lockers were installed in all branches in January 1996 so that library users could safely deposit their bags without staff assistance. Queue ticketing systems were installed at the Ang Mo Kio and Jurong West CLs in March 1996. These allow users to browse the library while they wait to be served. The Ang Mo Kio CL made locating a book much easier and faster by arranging books by subject and colour coding children’s materials according to type, for example, picture books, simple fiction or language. This scheme was further extended to other branches and has proven successful.

The NLB closely monitors the changing needs of Singaporeans and purchases new print, AV and multimedia materials to keep its collection useful and current. More children’s books, and popular materials on computer science, management, self improvement, travel, sports and hobbies were acquired this year. Type of Materials Acquired FY 95 FY 96 1,489,732 Books 377,110 volumes volumes Serials 2,751 titles 2,739 titles Special Materials (*) 18,706 items 39,521 items (*) Special materials consist of CD-ROMs, AV materials, talking books, kits, music scores, art prints and maps. In FY 96, the NLB: purchased 1,489,732 books (an increase of 295 per cent); acquired 5,376 books through legal deposit and gift/exchange; expanded its collection of special materials by 20,815 (an increase of 111 per cent); and registered 3,241 new titles published in Singapore.

The NLB plays an important role in the promotion of the Arts in Singapore. It not only organises cultural programmes but is also a central repository for local literature. It expanded its cultural collection in FY 96 mainly through the generosity of local drama groups which donated 67 play manuscripts written in the four official languages.

The NLB also runs a Local Arts Scheme which borrows as well as purchases artwork from both established and newly established artists. In addition to cooperating with galleries and dealers, it also features works from art institutions such as the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts and the La Salle-SIA College of the Arts. In this way, local art is supported and brought into the midst of communities, thus becoming a part of people’s lives.

Singapore’s diverse ethnic population is also reflected in the collections. To meet the increased demand for Chinese, Malay and Tamil materials, staff scan overseas resources for new materials. A link with the National Library of Australia has its Jakarta-based officer assisting NLB in the acquisition of materials published in Indonesia.

NUMBER OF TITLES DEPOSITED SPECIAL MATERIALS NO. ACQUIRED IN FY 96 Video tapes 28,149 FY 95 FY 96 +-% Computer files 5,917 Audio cassettes 2,278 Compact discs 2,075 Books 4,314 3,241 -24.9 Music scores 564 Video discs 507 Serials 727 759 +4.4 Talking books 11 Kits 9 Maps 7 Total 5,041 4,000 -20.7 Art prints 4

The NLB serves as the central agency for the Singapore Integrated Library Automation Service (SILAS). This is a data communications network linking 59 members comprising 93 public, academic and special libraries in Singapore. It makes available a database containing the cataloguing for (as of 31st March 1997): 7.1 million bibliographic records - books, serials, music, visual materials, maps, computer files, archives and manuscripts from all over the world; 8.76 million vocabulary records; and 2.36 million holdings statements. Since its official launch in April 1987, the database has grown steadily from year to year. A total of 58 out of 59 members contributed their holdings to the database.

The June 1996 and December 1996 issues of the Singapore National Bibliography on CD- ROM were also completed in FY 96, with the latter containing cumulative records from 1967 through to December 1996. A total of 35,508 English/Malay titles were captured, in addition to 1,510 and 108 cumulative images of Chinese and Tamil scripts respectively.

NEW SILAS MEMBERS FOR FY 95 AND FY 96 FY 95 FY 96 SAFRA National Service Association Singapore Airlines (SIA) Nanyang Polytechnic International Temasek Polytechnic School of IT & Business Resource Centre (NYPIBRC) Applied Science (TPITAS)

Jurong Town Corporation (JTC) The National Reference Library (NRL) is a vital link to global information, providing a diverse range of research and reference services to government departments, business and industry sectors, and the general public.

Reference Point, launched in April 1996, is a remote enquiry service available via phone, fax, email and mail. Requests come in from all over the world, with the enquiries ranging from the availability of titles to specialised information searches.

Throughout FY 96, the NRL handled a total of 44,475 enquiries regarding information and publications. The total number of enquiries received by the NRL represents an increase of 2.7 per cent over the last FY, with a high satisfaction rate of 93.7 per cent. There was a marked increase in the number of requests for business information, most notably questions pertaining to countries in the region, with special emphasis on China. Information on local companies and their operations was also frequently consulted.

In FY 96, 253,033 reference materials were applied for at the application counters. There was a decrease of 3.3 per cent in the number of requests for materials from the Southeast Asian Room. However, there was an increase of 11.2 per cent in the number of audio-visual items requested at the counters. Music, management, travelogues, feature films, and language learning were the more popular topics.

The NRL provides inter-library loans of reference materials to 143 institutional members and overseas libraries on a request basis. A convenient document delivery service is also offered to deposit account holders who may request for photocopies, faxes, or printouts of documents as an alternative to borrowing. In FY 96, 12,131 documents were delivered. Government departments, statutory boards and selected libraries also receive the contents pages of selected periodicals as part of the Current Awareness Service. Visitors to the NRL increased from an average of 695 persons per day in FY 95 to 909 persons per day in FY 96. Just over half of these were students doing projects and general research. A steadily growing number of adult users also visited the division to seek information for business or professional purposes as well as continuing education programmes.

Rapidly expanding IT Services in the NRL include: A CD-ROM cluster with six CD-ROM stations and over 100 CD- ROM/multimedia titles; A ProQuest workstation with three journal citations full-text databases - Business Periodicals Ondisc, Social Sciences Ondisc and General Periodicals Ondisc; A Biznet service which provides users with company information supplied by the Registry of Companies and Businesses; and Internet stations which provide the general public with free Internet access.

The NRL offers 100,000 printed volumes on Singapore and Southeast Asia in addition to non-print materials (microfilms, microfiches, CD-ROMs) in the four official languages. It also houses special collections. It is an important resource of Singapore’s historical and cultural heritage.

In FY 96, 36 volumes of rare SPECIAL COLLECTIONS (approximate figures) items were restored. These include the first scientific journal, Microfilms 21,400 reels the Journal of Indian Archipelago and Eastern Asia (1847-1855), Posters 2,100 items published in Singapore which Maps 2,050 items contains invaluable information for research on the region. Rare Books 600 titles

Pictures 520 items

Besides offering a collection of books and periodicals on the fine arts, the Arts Resource Centre also provides audio-visual services ranging from cassette tapes to laser discs. The materials were particularly well-used by students from art colleges, officials from government departments and researchers from the local media industry such as The Straits Times and the Television Corporation of Singapore. As at 31st March 1997, the audio-visual collection had grown from 13,523 items (as at 31st March 1996) to 14,216 items, an increase of 5.1 per cent. A total of 10 book, magazine and audio-visual displays on various topics were put up. Themes ranged from tie-ins with festivals to national campaigns. Such displays were instrumental in raising the profile of the library’s diverse collections and helped to increase usage of the NLB’s collection considerably.

The first series of Information Skills Empowerment Programmes was launched in FY 96. Basic information-seeking skills on the use of the OPAC, CD-ROMs, Internet and certain databases were taught.

Here in the tropics, the evening light goes away abruptly, you notice it as you would a person who leaves your presence suddenly and without a word.

(IF WE DREAM TOO LONG, GOH POH SENG) The library occupies the centre of a community, and with good evidence too. If you were an active member, you would have been one of the 173,000 participants at the 4,000 programmes organised by the NLB in FY 96.

From colourful face-painting demonstrations, creative art and craft lessons and animated story-telling sessions for kids, to insightful talks on coping with stress, helping children academically, self-improvement and investment talks on property, the extent and variety of programmes were overwhelming. There was indeed something for everyone.

The National Reading Conference held from 13th to 14th April 1996 featured Dr Caroline Bauer who spoke on the topic, “Never Too Young to Read”; A seminar on “Bilingual Reading” held on 7th September 1996 attracted over 200 people; and On 26th October 1996, Dr Ng Seok Moi conducted a workshop on “Storytelling and Supporting Activities for Preschool Reading".

There is nothing that human imagination can figure brilliant that human genius and skill do not aspire to realize.

(ST LEON, WILLIAM GOLDWIN) In the fast changing world of technology, the NLB is committed to harnessing the latest advancements to provide new and improved services to its customers. To shorten queues during peak periods at the libraries, self-check stations were successfully prototyped at the Tampines Regional Library and Jurong West Community Library (CL). Seventy per cent of such transactions are now effected through these machines at the Jurong West CL. This successful experiment convinced NLB to install 10 self-check machines in two most recently opened libraries - Choa Chu Kang CL and Cheng San CL - thereby automating fully their borrowing and returning services. This will soon be a standard feature at all branches. It is now possible to utilise some of the library’s services, such as on-line catalogues and place reservations for materials, from home via the telephone or computer. This can be done through NLB’s home page, the NL.Line. A Library Phone-In service also exists, allowing the public to check their loan status and renew books. With individuals and organisations getting on the information highway, it is imperative that the library offers the most up-to-date technology for accessing information too. The Internet@the Library project was introduced at all CLs and the Tampines Regional Library. It was an instant hit with the public who appreciated the convenient access to the Internet.

Whether I shall turn out to be the hero of my own life, or whether the station will be held by anybody else, these pages will show .

(DAVID COPPERFIELD, CHARLES DICKENS)

The 18 Community Children’s Libraries (CCLs) which were established in FY 96 were also outfitted with computers with CD-ROM capabilities so that members could benefit from educational and entertainment software. To link all the NLB libraries, a high-speed Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) was set up. It is now the backbone for the Corporate Intranet and a link to the Internet. This high-speed link allows faster communication between CLs. The Library Supply Centre at Changi, opened on 17th March 1997, utilises state- of-the-art technology to store library books in a cost-efficient manner. The computer system makes locating the books eminently simple, allowing users to request for books which have been stored here. A project was implemented to provide an integrated network of computer workstations which will provide library users with a one-step on-line access to Internet services, CD-ROM titles, On-Line Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) and other new electronic services for public access in libraries. Over the next two years, all existing and new CLs will be equipped with this Public Access Network System (PANS). There are plans to extend it on a smaller scale to the CCLs. The LearningCentre, also in the making, prototypes the library of the future. Using technology, it makes learning and research more interactive and fun. In a rapidly changing information services environment, it is imperative to recruit and equip staff with basic to advanced skills in library and information work to meet the challenges ahead.

With the expansion of libraries and the extension of services, the library profession must keep up with evolving needs and demands. As a result, the librarian increasingly engages in proactive service instead of passive assistance. He or she becomes not only a guardian of resources, but the interpreter of users’ requirements and requests.

Committed to making changes and innovations a way of life, we have adopted the PS21 ethos to contribute to the creation of a Public Sector for the 21st Century.

Following the launch of PS21, a Steering Committee and four subcommittees were set up: the Organisational Review Committee, WITs and Suggestions Committee, Quality Service Committee and the Staff Well-Being Committee.

Improving work processes and achieving greater efficiency and effectiveness is the task of the Organisational Review Committee. It identifies areas for review, and helps facilitate and monitor projects that are carried out to address these areas.

The WITs and Suggestions Committee formulates strategies and helps to create an environment which will encourage staff to contribute to productivity and provide quality service. As of end March 1997, 37 Work Improvement Teams had completed 15 projects. The NLB also participated in the 1995 PS21 WITs Convention in which its JET team from Jurong East Community Library was awarded a Gold Medal for its project ‘Improving Access To Books Shown Available On The On-Line Catalogue’.

With the launch of the NLPLUS system - a staff suggestion scheme to improve productivity and quality of service - all staff can now submit their suggestions via the Intranet. Heads of the divisions can also evaluate and approve the suggestions on-line. There was an overwhelming response of 3,337 suggestions; of these, 2,187 or 65 per cent of the suggestions were implemented.

The NLPLUS is also able to automatically generate statistical reports and histograms for senior management to analyse and monitor trends. When fully completed, it will also be able to inform management which suggestions have been implemented.

To encourage quality service and reward staff who practise this philosophy, the Quality Service Committee organises talks, recommends service standards and proposes quality service awards. To demonstrate the commitment to quality, an NLB Quality Day jointly organised with the Ministry of Information and the Arts was held at the Tampines Regional Library.

Staff well-being is also a priority and the Staff Well-Being Committee takes charge of programmes which cover healthy lifestyle, recreation and social development. They assisted in the organisation of the NLB Family Day, the annual Dinner and Dance, nature walks and many more activities.

In order to improve our services, the NLB will continue to pursue higher productivity and service excellence through the PS21 movement to meet both the interests of staff and customers. The next few years will be an exciting time for the Board - working towards realising our challenging vision of a world-class library system. The NLB is confident that it will be able to fully meet all the demands and expectations of Singaporeans using its libraries - whether on-line or in person.

Once a thing is known it can never be unknown.

(LOOK AT ME, ANITA BROOKNER) StatisticalS�U-·, _._m&.J· "-.lmLII· �u,a_·:.a.C-Y� ------l'l_ii!' _u -=-g..;_u _r _a _I _A_. n_n_u_a _I _R_e_.p_o.;.__rt _. TABLE 1: Collection by Language, Adults,Young People, Children and Materials

B O O K S S E R I A L S Titles Items Titles Items FY 95 FY 96 FY 95 FY 96 FY 95 FY 96 FY 95 FY 96 LANGUAGES Malay 32,133 35,237 355,957 418,326 467 494 13,484 15,821 Chinese 67,477 76,162 744,525 920,782 883 947 19,151 21,831 Tamil 11,213 12,527 96,566 118,071 21 28 3,950 4,322 English 290,428 315,976 2,054,773 2,760,661 13,434 14,681 309,952 380,155

Total 401,251 439,902 3,251,821 4,217,840 14,805 16,150 346,537 422,129 ...... Back to Top

B O O K S S E R I A L S Titles Items Titles Items 6/11/2018 Table 1: Collection by Language, Age Group and Material FY 95 FY 96 FY 95 FY 96 FY 95 FY 96 FY 95 FY 96 ADULTS Malay 17,855 18,904 131,516 128,157 458 484 11,259 13,272 Chinese 51,926 59,084 390,362 488,543 849 911 16,130 19,762 Tamil 7,573 8,522 54,864 66,014 17 25 2,881 3,073 English 228,811 246,369 1,048,479 1,257,285 13,323 14,566 295,507 366,148

Total 306,165 332,879 1,625,221 1,939,999 14,647 15,986 325,777 402,255 ...... Back to Top

B O O K S S E R I A L S Titles Items Titles Items FY 95 FY 96 FY 95 FY 96 FY 95 FY 96 FY 95 FY 96 YOUNG PEOPLE Malay 2,423 2,706 34,702 36,575 3 3 479 452 Chinese 3,817 4,130 40,351 43,723 15 14 558 301 Tamil 907 945 5,889 6,068 2 1 786 942 English 17,627 19,221 211,732 249,279 55 59 6,725 6,409

Total 24,774 27,002 292,674 335,645 75 77 8,548 8,104 B O O K S S E R I A L S Titles Items Titles Items FY 95 FY 96 FY 95 FY 96 FY 95 FY 96 FY 95 FY 96 CHILDREN Malay 11,855 13,627 189,739 253,594 6 7 1,746 2,097 Chinese 11,734 12,948 313,812 388,516 19 22 2,463 1,768 Tamil 2,733 3,060 35,813 45,989 2 2 283 307 English 43,990 50,386 794,562 1,254,097 56 56 7,720 7,598

Total 70,312 80,021 1,333,926 1,942,196 83 87 12,212 11,770 SPECIAL MATERIALS* Titles Items FY 95 FY 96 FY 95 FY 96 Braille 121 136 468 192 Compact disc 2,430 2,646 11,131 13,196 Filmstrip 474 474 1,244 1,120 Game 3 3 3 3 Kit 16 22 63 236 Music score 7,932 8,714 15,666 16,816 Map 49 68 49 85 Motion picture 109 109 124 124 Video cassette 7,665 8,986 45,660 66,760 Video disc 373 470 2,844 3,544 Art print 214 220 331 337 Flash card 6 15 18 54 Recorded disc 2,015 2,015 2,525 2,525 Tape recording 3,026 3,197 12,670 15,251 Tape slide 442 445 637 621 Microfiche 332 334 1,141 743 Microfilm 2,169 2,730 2,727 4,148 Talking book 174 173 402 425 Compact disc interactive 44 44 362 368 Computer file ** 451 632 3,758 8,467 Pic collection 1 1 1 1 Total 28,046 31,434 101,824 135,016

Grand Total (Books, Serials 3,700,182 4,774,985 and Special Materials) 444,102 487,486 *Excludes items not bar-coded **Includes CD-ROMs TABLE 2: Summary of Books Acquired (Volumes) FY 94, FY 95, FY 96, Total

FY 94 Purchase Gift **PPA Total

Malay 16,286 63 152 16,483 Chinese 82,158 772 939 83,869 Tamil 13,995 28 83 14,106 English 140,699 2,323 10,611 153,633

Total 253,120 3,186 11,785 268,091 (-1.3%)* * Percentage increase/decrease over the previous year ** Known as Legal Deposit w.e.f. September 1995

FY 95 Purchase Gift **LD Total

Malay 15,681 182 404 16,267 Chinese 108,838 994 1,540 111,372 Tamil 10,524 42 67 10,633 English 242,067 2,119 6,436 250,622

Total 377,110 3,337 8,447 388,894 (+45.1%)* * Percentage increase/decrease over the previous year ** Known as Legal Deposit w.e.f. September 1995

FY 96 Purchase Gift **LD Total

Malay 71,335 120 26 71,481 Chinese 319,985 638 649 321,272 Tamil 35,444 - 52 35,496 English 1,062,968 1,386 2,505 1,066,859

Total 1,489,732 2,144 3,232 1,495,108 (+284.5%)* * Percentage increase/decrease over the previous year ** Known as Legal Deposit w.e.f. September 1995

TABLE 3: Summary of New Titles Catalogued FY 94, FY 95, FY 96, Total

FY 94 ADULT CHILDREN'S TOTAL

Malay 2,634 89 2,723 Chinese 3,648 461 4,109 Tamil 625 216 841 English 16,985 3,006 19,991 Total **23,892 3,772 27,664 (+22.4%)* * Percentage increase over the previous year ** Includes children's titles for Asian collection

FY 95 ADULT CHILDREN'S TOTAL

Malay 2,720 392 3,112 Chinese 7,497 1,334 8,831 Tamil 592 177 769 English 16,795 5,572 22,367

Total **27,604 7,475 35,079 (+26.8%)* * Percentage increase over the previous year ** Includes children's titles for Asian collection

FY 96 ADULT CHILDREN'S TOTAL

Malay 1,932 1,336 3,268 Chinese 8,259 1,115 9,374 Tamil 980 278 1,258 English 22,010 5,312 27,322

Total 33,181 8,041 41,222 (+17.5%)* * Percentage increase over the previous year ** Includes children's titles for Asian collection

TABLE 4: Membership Statistics for FY 94, FY 95 & FY 96 (Adults, Young People, Children)

ADULTS FY 94 FY 95 FY 96

Ang Mo Kio Community Library 69,913 75,374 82,872 Bedok Community Library 84,351 87,207 91,217 Bukit Merah Community Library 37,817 40,768 44,183 Central Community Library 72,293 78,423 85,658 Cheng San Community Library - - 3,379 Choa Chu Kang Community Library - - 4,218 Geylang East Community Library 25,137 27,046 29,277 Jurong East Community Library 70,166 76,277 84,195 Jurong West Community Library - 702 8,608 Marine Parade Community Library 32,273 34,543 37,457 Queenstown Community Library 58,841 59,420 61,691 Toa Payoh Community Library 68,473 71,811 76,932 Tampines Regional Library 7,842 16,719 23,102

527,106 568,290 632,789 Total (+13.6%)* (+7.8%)* (+11.4%)*

* Percentage increase over the previous year

Jurong West Community Library was opened on 22nd March 1996. Choa Chu Kang Community Library was opened on 22nd February 1997. Cheng San Community Library was opened on 6th March 1997. YOUNG PEOPLE FY 94 FY 95 FY 96

Ang Mo Kio Community Library 49,145 50,843 52,958 Bedok Community Library 48,817 48,759 49,444 Bukit Merah Community Library 18,520 18,853 19,288 Central Community Library 18,611 19,741 21,050 Cheng San Community Library - - 1,139 Choa Chu Kang Community Library - - 791 Geylang East Community Library 12,528 12,766 13,119 Jurong East Community Library 47,310 48,066 49,653 Jurong West Community Library - 162 1,048 Marine Parade Community Library 12,865 13,219 13,720 Queenstown Community Library 25,594 25,463 25,839 Toa Payoh Community Library 32,952 33,511 34,431 Tampines Regional Library 1,610 3,019 3,828

267,952 274,402 286,308 Total (+4.1%)* (+2.4%)* (+4.3%)*

* Percentage increase over the previous year

Ang Mo Kio Community Library 28,394 35,865 42,319 Bedok Community Library 27,638 31,593 34,789 Bukit Merah Community Library 12,137 14,524 16,614 Central Lending Library 9,752 11,584 13,230 Cheng San Community Library - - 5,609 Choa Chu Kang Community Library - - 5,052 Geylang East Community Library 8,668 10,728 12,476 Jurong East Community Library 34,578 41,527 47,809 Jurong West Community Library - 487 5,523 Marine Parade Community Library 10,615 12,626 14,831 Queenstown Community Library 9,280 10,880 12,534 Toa Payoh Community Library 16,287 20,446 24,443 Tampines Regional Library 9,341 18,025 24,071

Total 166,690 208,285 259,300 (+11.5%)* (+25.0%)* (+24.5%)*

CCLs 4,407 9,907 23,835 Others 6,367 6,829 355

Grand Total 972,522 1,067,713 1,202,587 (+11.8%)* (+9.8%)* (+12.6%)*

* Percentage increase over the previous year

ADULTS FY 94 FY 95 FY 96

Ang Mo Kio Community Library 554,627 608,755 851,215 Bedok Community Library 523,322 572,411 669,021 Bukit Merah Community Library 387,011 476,329 530,065 Central Lending Library 559,461 730,568 866,652 Cheng San Community Library - - 52,838 Choa Chu Kang Community Library - - 90,859 Geylang East Community Library 344,321 422,826 513,602 Jurong East Community Library 586,015 725,516 778,393 Jurong West Community Library - 10,896 509,131 Marine Parade Community Library 359,561 447,643 560,690 Queenstown Community Library 283,449 369,590 459,008 Toa Payoh Community Library 399,334 518,920 612,591 Tampines Regional Library 147,718 723,594 880,478

4,144,819 5,607,048 7,374,543 Total (+15.5%)* (+35.3%)* (+31.5%)*

* Percentage increase over the previous year YOUNG PEOPLE FY 94 FY 95 FY 96

Ang Mo Kio Community Library 147,649 152,298 191,621 Bedok Community Library 104,009 120,223 140,035 Bukit Merah Community Library 62,012 93,182 101,184 Central Lending Library 73,700 115,168 143,390 Cheng San Community Library - - 13,776 Choa Chu Kang Community - - 22,104 Library Geylang East Community 66,510 93,927 114,497 Library Jurong East Community Library 135,466 173,469 174,798 Jurong West Community Library - 2,284 107,366 Marine Parade Community 65,639 93,665 119,940 Library Queenstown Community Library 59,545 83,124 102,331 Toa Payoh Community Library 72,418 107,558 125,239 Tampines Regional Library 22,202 141,534 186,397

Total 809,150 1,176,432 1,542,678 (+4.4%)* (+45.4%)* (+31.1%)* * Percentage increase over the previous year CHILDREN FY 94 FY 95 FY 96

Ang Mo Kio Community Library 741,412 857,633 1,125,260 Bedok Community Library 629,860 659,992 794,606 Bukit Merah Community Library 459,922 569,808 635,028 Central Lending Library 294,311 453,187 580,835 Cheng San Community Library - - 70,542 Choa Chu Kang Community - - 103,187 Library Geylang East Community 371,476 520,870 626,055 Library Jurong East Community Library 865,131 1,080,757 1,060,313 Jurong West Community Library - 9,553 573,550 Marine Parade Community 473,504 634,278 839,581 Library Queenstown Community Library 392,707 529,785 631,269 Toa Payoh Community Library 488,161 681,757 826,285 Tampines Regional Library 237,832 1,175,948 1,310,576

Total 4,954,316 7,173,568 9,177,087 (+7.1%) (+44.8%) (+27.9%)*

CCLs 153,711 290,992 777,764 Others 15,422 22,969 25,406

Grand Total 10,077,418 14,271,009 18,897,478 (+10.1%)* (+41.6%)* (+32.4%)* * Percentage increase over the previous year CCL LOANS FY 94 FY 95 FY 96

Bishan CCL 35,753 39,213 40,597 Bukit Batok CCL 59,687 62,797 62,769 Bukit Panjang CCL - - 49,442 Chua Chu Kang CCL - - 24,236 Clementi CCL 44,473 52,740 59,355 Eunos CCL - 19,418 54,416 Hong Kah North CCL - - 47,415 Moulmein CCL - - 17,472 Mountbatten CCL - 16,487 21,051 Nanyang CCL 13,798 27,350 50,165 Nee Soon East CCL - 29,749 86,167 Nee Soon South CCL - - 57,348 Pasir Ris CCL - - 30,453 Punggol CCL - 7,784 57,401 Tampines East CCL - - 16,078 Thomson CCL - 16,295 50,175 Tampines West CCL - 19,159 38,015 Woodlands CCL - - 15,209

Total 153,711 290,992 777,764 (+167.3%)* (-4.1%)* (+89.3%)* * Percentage increase or decrease over the previous year Report on the audit of the Accounts of the National Library Board Balance Sheet Income and Expenditure Statement Cash Flow Statement Notes to the Accounts The financial statements of the National Library Board for the year ended 31 March 1997 as set out on pages 1 to 15, have been examined under my direction and in accordance with the provisions of the National Library Board Act (Chapter 197). I have obtained all the information and explanations I have required.

In my opinion:

a) the accompanying financial statements show fairly the financial transactions of the Board for the year ended 31 March 1997 and the state of affairs of the Board as at that date; b) proper accounting and other records have been kept, including records of all assets of the Board whether purchased, donated or otherwise; and c) the receipts, expenditure and investment of moneys and the acquisition and disposal of assets by the Board during the financial year have been in accordance with the provisions of the National Library Board Act (Chapter 197).

Chuang Kwong Yong Auditor-General Singapore 27 June 1997

1/1 Note 31 Mar 97 31 Mar 96 S$ S$

CAPITAL ACCOUNT 3 10,334,137 10,334,137 ACCUMULATED DEFICIT (5,631,506) (6,511,980) DEFERRED CAPITAL GRANTS 4 11,756,605 2,346,678 16,459,236 6,168,835

Represented by: FIXED ASSETS 5 13,180,185 4,704,774 CURRENT ASSETS Debtors, Deposits and Prepayments 6 4,176,134 1,356,069 Grant Receivable - 3,115,332 Fixed Deposits 342,977 - Cash and Bank Balances 10,833,200 2,322,810 15,352,311 6,794,211

CURRENT LIABILITIES Creditors and Accruals 11,255,975 4,422,565 Library Subscribers' Deposit 273,335 288,600 Security and Other Deposits 123,604 91,088 Project Advances 420,346 527,897 12,073,260 5,330,150 NET CURRENT ASSETS 3,279,051 1,464,061 16,459,236 6,168,835

The accompanying notes form part of the accounts.

Tan Chin Nam Christopher Chia Chairman Chief Executive

27 June 1997 25 June 1997 Note 1996/97 1 Sep 95 to S$ 31 Mar 96 S$ OPERATING INCOME Professional Services 3,554,463 2,027,892 Book Fines 1,266,718 597,640 Membership Fees 222,551 103,882 Other Income 816,774 270,364 5,860,506 2,999,778 Less: OPERATING EXPENDITURE Books, Periodicals and Serials 23,386,980 5,225,111 Salaries 22,580,768 10,739,844 Rental 7,938,908 3,095,356 Development Expenses Written Off 4,856,568 1,035,711 Depreciation of Fixed Assets 5 3,339,869 1,412,297 Computer Services 2,040,711 600,523 Public Utilties 1,481,187 764,295 Maintenance of Buildings 1,342,492 356,867 Manpower Development and Staff 1,029,431 293,824 Welfare Disposal/Write-off of Fixed Assets 1,015,244 139,304 Telecommunication, Transport and 733,870 191,120 Postage Supplies and Materials 734,840 398,539 Consultancy Fees 625,855 197,917 Maintenance of Computer Hardware and 615,909 759,209 Software Other Operating Expenses 7 1,245,666 367,821 72,968,298 25,577,738 OPERATING DEFICIT (67,107,792) (22,577,960)

WRITE-OFF OF TRANSFERRED ASSETS 8 - (7,096,959)

NON-OPERATING INCOME Interest income 224,561 2,081 DEFICIT BEFORE GRANT (66,883,231) (29,672,838)

GRANTS Operating Grants 9 42,775,179 20,394,471 Development Grants 10 22,252,217 2,067,817 Deferred Capital Grants Amortised 4 2,736,309 698,570 67,763,705 23,160,858

SURPLUS/(DEFICIT) FOR THE YEAR/PERIOD 880,474 (6,511,980) ACCUMULATED DEFICIT BROUGHT FORWARD (6,511,980) - ACCUMULATED DEFICIT CARRIED FORWARD (5,631,506) (6,511,980) The accompanying notes form part of the accounts. 1996/97 1 Sep 95 to S$ 31 Mar 96 S$ CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net deficit before grants (66,883,231) (29,672,838)

Adjustments for: Depreciation of Fixed Assets 3,339,869 1,412,297 Disposal/Write-off of Fixed Assets 277,714 7,096,959 Non-operating Income (3,079) - Deficit before Working Capital Changes (63,268,727) (21,163,582)

Increase in Debtors, Deposits and Prepayments (2,816,985) (1,356,069) Increase in Creditors 3,480,488 3,874,122 (Decrease)/Increase in Advances and Deposits (90,300) 907,585 Net Cash used in operating activities (62,695,524) (17,737,944)

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Purchase of Fixed Assets (10,410,783) (2,496,805) Proceeds from Disposal of Fixed Assets 53,242 - Net Cash used in investing activities (10,357,541) (2,496,805)

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES Government Capital Grants - 2,346,678 Government Grants (81,906,432) 20,045,526 Net Cash generated from financing activities (81,906,432) (22,392,204) NET INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH 8,853,367 2,157,455 EQUIVALENTS

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT THE BEGINNING OF THE YEAR 2,322,810 165,355

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT THE END OF THE YEAR 11,176,177 2,322,810

NOTES TO THE CASH FLOW STATEMENT CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and bank balances and fixed deposits as follows: S$ S$ Cash and Bank Balances 10,833,200 2,322,810 Fixed Deposits 342,977 - (11,176,177) (2,322,810) These notes form an integral part of and should be read in conjunction with the accompanying financial statements.

1) PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES Under the National Library Board Act (Chapter 197), the National Library Board (NLB) shall:

(a) establish and maintain libraries, and provide library information services; (b) promote reading and encourage learning through the use of libraries and their services; (c) provide a repository for library materials published in Singapore; (d) acquire and maintain a comprehensive collection of library materials relating to Singapore and its people; (e) establish standards for the training of library personnel; (f) provide advisory and consultancy services concerning libraries and library information services; (g) compile and maintain a national union catalogue and a national bibliography; and (h) advise the Government on national needs and policies in respect of matters relating to publicly funded libraries and library information services in Singapore.

2) SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

(a) Accounting Convention The financial statements, expressed in Singapore dollars, are prepared in accordance with the historical cost convention. (b) Grants Government assets transferred for the establishment of the NLB are taken into the Capital Account.

Government grants and contributions from other organisations utilised for the purchase of depreciable assets are taken to the Deferred Capital Grants Account.

Deferred capital grants are recognised in the Income and Expenditure Statement over the periods necessary to match the depreciation of the assets purchased with the related grants. Upon disposal of fixed assets, the balance of the related deferred capital grants is recognised in the Income and Expenditure Statement to match the net book value of the assets written-off.

Government grants are accounted for on the accrual basis. (c) Basis of Recognising Income Professional library services are rendered to Government ministries and statutory boards and fees charged are recognised when services are rendered. Fees are charged based on fixed rates approved by the Ministry of Finance.

Incomes from rental of library facilities are recognised when services are rendered and charges are based on rates approved by the supervisory ministry.

Book fines are accounted for only when received.

Interest income from fixed deposits and bank current accounts are recognised on the accrual basis. (d) Fixed Assets and Depreciation Fixed assets are stated at cost less the accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is calculated on the straight line basis to write off the cost or net book value of the assets over their estimated useful lives as follows: Years Motor Vehicles 5 Renovation 5 Furniture and Fittings 5 Office Equipment 5 Computer Hardware and Operating System Software 4

No depreciation is provided for Works of Art and Projects in Progress.

A full year’s depreciation is charged in the year of acquisition and no depreciation is charged in the year of disposal. Fully depreciated assets are retained in the financial statements until they are no longer in use. Fixed assets costing less than S$1,000 each and capital expenditure on community children’s libraries are charged to the Income and Expenditure Statement in the year of purchase.

Movable fixed assets belonging to the former National Library before its conversion to a statutory board were transferred at net book value to the NLB when it was established and depreciated over their useful lives. (e) Expenditure on Books, Periodicals and Serials Expenditure on books, periodicals and serials are charged to Income and Expenditure Statement in the year of purchase. (f) Foreign Currencies Foreign currency assets and liabilities at balance sheet date are converted to Singapore dollars at the rates of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. Foreign curency transactions during the year are converted into Singapore dollars at the rates of exchange ruling on the transaction dates. Differences on exchange are included in the Income and Expenditure Statement.

3) CAPITAL ACCOUNT The Capital Account comprises the value of the movable fixed assets, imprest floats and specific donations and miscellaneous project account balances held by the former National Library, which were transferred to the NLB on its establishment, on 1 September 1995.

4) DEFERRED CAPITAL GRANTS 31 Mar 97 31 Mar 96 S$ S$

Balance at the beginning of the year/period 2,346,678 - Development Grant utilised 10,382,125 1,738,523 Amount transferred from Operating Grant 1,736,411 1,306,725 Amount transferred from Other Grants 27,700 - 14,492,914 3,045,248 Less: Deferred Capital Grants Amortised 2,736,309 698,570 Balance at the end of the year/period 11,756,605 2,346,678

5) FIXED ASSETS Motor Renovation Furniture Office Computer Works Projects in Total Vehicles S$ & Fittings Equipment Hardware of Art Progress S$ S$ S$ S$ & Software S$ S$ S$ COSTS At 1 Apr 96 91,638 552,859 485,311 1,209,616 3,777,647 - - 6,117,071 Additions - 1,852,058 604,730 2,439,901 4,233,770 186,613 2,829,164 12,146,236 Disposals - - - (5,935) (434,459) - - (440,394) At 31 Mar 97 91,638 2,404,917 1,090,041 3,643,582 7,576,958 186,613 2,829,164 17,822,913

DEPRECIATION At 1 Apr 96 18,328 110,572 97,062 241,923 944,412 - - 1,412,297 Depreciation for 18,327 480,983 218,008 728,675 1,893,876 - - 3,339,869 the year Disposals - - - (1,187) (108,251) - - (109,438)

At 31 Mar 97 36,655 591,555 315,070 969,411 2,730,037 - - 4,642,728

Depreciation for the period: 18,328 110,572 97,062 241,923 944,412 - - 1,412,297 1 Sep 95 to 31 Mar 96

NET BOOK VALUE At 31 Mar 97 54,983 1,813,362 774,971 2,674,171 4,846,921 186,613 2,829,164 13,180,185

At 31 Mar 96 73,310 442,287 388,249 967,693 2,833,235 - - 4,704,774

6) DEBTORS, DEPOSITS AND PREPAYMENTS The balance comprises the following: 31 Mar 97 31 Mar 96 S$ S$

Sundry Debtors 1,564,762 469,642 Deposits 1,151,833 409,529 Prepayments 1,459,539 476,898 4,176,134 1,356,069

7) OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES Included in Other Operating Expenses 1996/ 97 1 Sep 95 to are the following: S$ 31 Mar 96 S$

Maintenance of Libraries 347,689 52,464 Public Relations 255,688 48,938 Other Professional Services 144,015 43,000 Other Services 126,140 - Printing 119,837 - Board Members' Allowance 61,819 - Audit Fees 51,000 35,000 Security, Agency Fees and Commission 43,304 24,435 Legal and Stamp Fees 27,884 83,392 Annual Report 25,950 - Bank Charges 12,646 - Maintenance of Equipment 12,195 29,754 Insurance 7,133 23,365 Others 10,366 27,473 1,245,666 367,821 8) WRITE-OFF OF TRANSFERRED ASSETS Prior to the formation of the National Library Board, all assets above S$200 were capitalised by the former National library. As the accounting policy of the NLB is to capitalise only fixed assets costing S$1,000 and above, a one-time exercise was carried out last financial period to write off all transferred books and fixed assets with net book value below S$1,000.

9) OPERATING GRANTS 1996/ 97 1 Sep 95 to S$ 31 Mar 96 S$

Operating Grants received during the year/period: 44,511,590 18,675,481 Add: Operating Grants Receivable - 3,025,715 Less: Amount transferred to Deferred Capital Grants 1,736,411 1,306,725 Total Operating Grants received 42,775,179 20,394,471 as at 31 Mar

10) DEVELOPMENT GRANTS Development grants received from the Government are used for implementing approved development projects. Except for capital expenditure an community children’s libraries, all other capital-related expenditure costing S$1,000 and above are capitalised as Fixed Assets. Other project costs and expenditure including books, are charged to the Income and Expenditure Statement in the year of purchase. 1996/ 97 1 Sep 95 to S$ 31 Mar 96 S$

Development Grants received during the year/period: 34,251,810 3,716,723 Add: Development Grants Receivable - 89,617 Less: Development Grants Received in Advance 1,617,468 - Amount transferred to Deferred Capital Grants 10,382,125 1,738,523 11,999,593 1,738,523 Development Grants utilised as at 31 Mar (for the 22,252,217 2,067,817 following expenditure) Books and Periodicals 17,064,236 1,030,254 Salaries 331,413 1,852 Other Development Expenses Written Off 4,856,568 1,035,711

11) CAPITAL COMMITMENTS Capital expenditure approved by the Board during the year but not provided for in the accounts is as follows: 31 Mar 97 31 Mar 96 S$ S$

Amount approved and contracted 7,683,850 1,618,655 Amount approved but not contracted 82,487,833 2,286,421 12) TOTAL GOVERNMENT GRANTS Total grants received from Government since establishment was S$112,987,605 31 Mar 97 31 Mar 96 S$ S$

Capital Account 10,334,137 10,334,137 Capital Grants 15,163,784 3,045,248 Operating Grants 63,169,650 20,394,471 Development Grants 24,320,034 2,067,817 Total 112,987,605 35,841,673

13) COMPARATIVE FIGURES Certain comparative figures have been reclassified to conform with the current year's presentation.