KNOWLEDGE I IMAGINATION | POSSIBILITY ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
Realise POSSIBILITY Topiary The art of topiary epitomises the concept of realising possibility. With imagination and skill, it transforms an ordinary, shapeless hedge or plant into imaginative shapes and objects. The National Library Board continues in its mission to encourage learning and the habit of reading which is key to gaining knowledge. Through the acquisition of knowledge, one will be equipped with skills to shape ideas and thoughts into new possibilities.
Dolphin A dolphin emerging from the sea is fluid, not static and symbolises the spectrum of possibility. A dolphin is also among the most intelligent mammals after human beings and appropriately depicts learning and knowledge.
ANNUAL REPORT 2004/200 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE
Mission To expand the learning capacity of the nation so as to enhance national competitiveness and to promote a gracious society.
Purpose To deliver a world-class library system which is convenient, accessible and useful to the people of Singapore. NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
Contents
02 Corporate Mission and Purpose
04 Chairman's Message
06 Chief Executive's Message
08 Board of Directors
10 Management Committee
12 Organisation Chart
13 Highlights of the Year
19 Year in Review
36 National Library - A New Chapter
38 Statistical Summary
49 Financial Statements
81 Library Listings
85 Acknowledgements Chairman's Message
4 CHAIRMAN'S MESSAGE | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
There are three key groups of people whom we would like to focus on - the pre-schoolers, the teenagers who are our future adult customers, and the elderly who will form an increasing proportion of the population in the future.
Ten years ago, most people probably saw the library organisations. Looking forward, we will be working more as serving a purely functional role. If you needed to do closely with community groups, such as volunteers, research or could not afford to buy books, you would reading clubs and voluntary welfare organisations, so visit the library. The Library 2000 blueprint helped to that we can reach the groups more effectively. change that perception somewhat: the library has moved from being merely a functional space to a welcoming The new National Library building will open to the social space as well. public in July 2005. Apart from being a knowledge hub for scholars, professionals, researchers and students Today, we have cafes in our libraries and libraries in Singapore and the region, the new National Library in shopping centres - essentially, our libraries have will also serve as a gathering point for people to meet, integrated with the community and are seen as inviting discuss and interact. Situated in the heart of Singapore's havens to relax, meet people and share in the company arts, culture, learning and entertainment hub, the of other book-lovers. It is a great testimony of our National Library will be a place for social groups to meet, success that many libraries in other parts of the world participate in activities or simply to immerse in the have replicated our efforts in their own countries. creative and vibrant atmosphere at its compounds.
Although visitorship and loans have increased over the I wish to commend the NLB Board of Directors, years, NLB is not resting on its laurels. There are still management and staff for their support and creativity - many more Singaporeans who have not or seldom step we would not have achieved what we had if not for them. foot in the library. There are three key groups of people Special mention must go to Dr Christopher Chia, the whom we would like to focus on - the pre-schoolers, outgoing Chief Executive, for his innovative contribution the teenagers who are our future adult customers, and to NLB over the past ten years. Dr N Varaprasad, with the elderly who will form an increasing proportion of the his experience in the education industry, will bring fresh population in the future. and new perspectives to drive NLB in its next phase of growth. These are exciting times ahead. Together A primary target group, which cuts across age, is the with our partners, we will endeavour to reach out to lower-income segment, many of whom are not well all Singaporeans so that the library may leave behind a educated. We need to reach out to them, so that legacy of readers and learners. they may instil in themselves and their children the importance of education. This starts with an interest in reading, and in acquiring knowledge and skills. The library can and should play that role in inculcating the love for reading, especially amongst the young. The young learn from the example of their seniors - parents, teachers, and older friends. In our efforts to keep up with technology and new developments, we should not inadvertently make it an intimidating place for anyone Ms Lim Soo Hoon to visit the library. Outreach activities like reading programmes, will be a key focus for us to draw these Chairman groups, especially children, to the library. National Library Board
One of the strategic thrusts of Library 2000 was to build links with the community to promote ties and garner private sector support. This will continue to be an important goal. The library is not just a government institution - it belongs to every Singaporean and the only way to get people to feel ownership of the library is for it to be an intrinsic part of the community. In the past, we have collaborated extensively with private and public
5 Chief Executive's Message
6 CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S MESSAGE | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
Having laid the foundation and the important building blocks for libraries in Singapore, our aim for the next decade is to expand the role of libraries in the knowledge economy, one which rewards those able to create and apply knowledge productively
When the National Library Board was formed in 1995, on our libraries' facilities and services, the basic premise the objective as set out in the Library 2000 blueprint was remains - that accessibility to knowledge should be to revamp the library system in Singapore to make it affordable and convenient, and for everyone. Working more accessible, usable and attractive to Singaporeans. towards this, we will create more social spaces at our Ten years on, the report card is in: libraries in Singapore libraries for community learning and integration of all have shaken off their traditional image as old, musty levels of society. Through the promotion of a reading institutions and assumed a new hip reputation. culture in Singapore, we hope this will contribute to the Complemented by the innovative use of technology building of a gracious society. and lifestyle appendages like cafes and performance areas, the libraries of today are vibrant and fundamental At the same time, the NLB will focus on the components of our community. development of the digital library, which will enable easier access to digitised content and allow greater The NLB model has received recognition for successfully sharing of knowledge and information via digital spaces. attracting users to the libraries, both locally and internationally. We frequently facilitate tour visits The new National Library at Victoria Street will be an by delegates from foreign libraries and have been icon of learning - where all Singaporeans can go to approached by libraries that want to model themselves enjoy the vast resources and be inspired to create new after us. The winning of the Singapore Quality Award in knowledge. With a treasure trove of over 630,000 items, 2004 is testimony to our organisational excellence. and generous social spaces for people to mingle and From leadership to planning and processes, NLB has gather, it is my hope that the library will spur continuous shown that we set and maintain high standards in all learning among Singaporeans and play a part towards that we do, and add value to all areas of our workflow to generating a reading culture. deliver exemplary results. I would like to thank my predecessor, Dr Christopher Chia, Having laid the foundation and the important building for his vision and his resolution in leading the NLB blocks for libraries in Singapore, our aim for the next to where we are today. My gratitude also goes out decade is to expand the role of libraries in the knowledge to the Board of Directors and the staff of NLB for economy, one which rewards those able to create and their continued dedication and support. The road apply knowledge productively. With knowledge as the ahead is challenging but with stalwartness and passion, pivotal factor in this new economic landscape, NLB's I am confident we will succeed in creating a more role is to make knowledge assets available to all and to gracious Singapore. groom knowledge-enabled Singaporeans.
The goals for our next phase of development are delineated in the new masterplan, Library 2010. They are expressed as two main approaches - Libraries for Life, which aims to inculcate the love of reading from a young age so that it might blossom into a lifetime habit of reading for discovery and mental stimulation - and Knowledge for Success, which Dr N Varaprasad strives to develop the tenet of continuous learning Chief Executive among individuals and businesses for skills upgrading, National Library Board professional and competitiveness enhancement.
NLB now faces a different set of challenges. On the one hand, we must ensure that no individual or portion of society gets left behind in the race for personal and national success. Equitable access to knowledge is critical in closing the social gap. As we continue to build
7 Board of Directors
2. Dr Koh Thiam Seng was appointed on September 1, 2003. He is the Director of Educational Technology Division at Ministry of Education.
3. Mr S Vivakanandan was appointed on September 1, 2003. He is the Chief Executive Officer of Singapore Indian Development Association (SINDA).
4. Mr Chan Heng Kee was appointed on September 1, 2003. He is the Director of Strategic Policy and Research and Director of Youth Division (covering) at the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports.
1. Ms Lim Soo Hoon was appointed Chairman on 5. Dr Quah Sy Ren was appointed on September 1, 2001 January 1, 2003. Formerly the Permanent Secretary and re-appointed on September 1, 2003 for a second for Ministry of Community Development, Youth and term. He is the Deputy Head of the Division of Chinese Sports, she was appointed the Permanent Secretary at the School of Humanities and Social Sciences in for Public Service Division on January 1, 2005. Nanyang Technological University.
8 BOARD OF DIRECTORS | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
6. Mr Paul Beh was appointed on September 1, 2003. 11. Mrs Phoon Chew Ping was appointed on He is the President (Asia-Pacific) at Reed Exhibitions September 1, 2003. She is the Director of Private Limited. Organisation Management at the Ministry of Information, Communications and the Arts. 7. Mr Tan Teck Huat was appointed on September 1, 2003. He is the Executive Vice President, 12. Mr Ahmad Khalis A Ghani was appointed on NatSteel Limited. September 1, 2001 and re-appointed on September 1, 2003 for a second term. He is the Chief Executive 8. Ms Ong Sor Fern was appointed on September 1, Officer of IFIS Business Advisory Private Limited. 2003. She is a Film Correspondent with Life! The Straits Times of Singapore Press Holdings. 13. Professor Schubert Foo was appointed on September 1, 2003. He is the Vice Dean of the 9. Associate Professor Shaharuddin Bin Maaruf School of Communication and Information at the was appointed on September 1, 2003. He is the Head Nanyang Technological University. of the Department of Malay Studies at the National University of Singapore.
10. Mr David Lee was appointed on September 1, 2003. He is the Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer of VISA International.
9 Management Committee
1. Dr N Varaprasad Chief Executive Appointed as Chief Executive of NLB on September 15, 2004.
2. Ms Ngian Lek Choh Deputy Chief Executive, National and Digital Libraries
3. Mr Chan Ping Wah Assistant Chief Executive, Technology and Innovation
4. Mr Lim Theam Siew Senior Director, Organisational Resources and Systems
10 MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
5. Ms Tay Ai Cheng 9. Mr Lau Kai Cheong Senior Director, Public Library Services Director, InfoComms
6. Mr Beh Chew Leng 10. Mr Chua Chong Huat Acting Senior Director, Library and Director, People Management and Development Professional Services 11. Ms Jennifer Yin 7. Mr Lai Yeen Pong Director, Community Partnerships and Outreach Director, Heritage and Asia, National Library 12. Mr Raju Buddharaju 8. Mr Cheong Fu Yan Chief Information Officer and Director, Finance and Corporate Services Director, Digital Library Services and NLB Board Secretary 13. Mr Ng Yew Kang Consultant, Partnerships and Development
11 Organisation Chart (with effect from 1 April 2005)
Lim Soo Hoon Chairman, NLB
Dr N Varaprasad Chief Executive, NLB
Internal Audit
Chief National and Public Library Library and Technology and Organisational Executive's Digital Libraries Services Professional Innovation Resources and Office Services Systems Chief Executive Deputy Chief Executive Ngian Lek Choh Tay Ai Cheng Beh Chew Leng Chan Ping Wah Lim Theam Siew Assistant Chief Executive Deputy Chief Executive Senior Director Acting Senior Director Assistant Chief Executive Senior Director
Corporate Office National Library PLS HQ SILAS InfoComms People Secretariat Management and Ngian Lek Choh Lau Kai Cheong Dr N Varaprasad Development Chief Executive Director Public Libraries Beh Chew Leng Director Director Chua Chong Huat Policy Heritage Tay Ai Cheng (Covering Director Development and Asia Senior Director Product and Services Learning and Loh Chee Lai Yeen Pong Professional Innovation Development Meng Director Community Services Senior Deputy Partnerships Chan Ping Wah Doris Tan Director Lee Kong and Outreach Lim Siew Kim Assistant Chief Deputy Director Chian Deputy Director Executive 'Covering) Risk Reference Jennifer Yin Management Director Finance and Library Business, Logistics Corporate Loh Chee Process and Judy Ng Visitor Services Services Meng Deputy Director Management Technology Lee Meng Boon Senior Deputy Innovation Cheong Fu Yan General Manager Director Invent Lim Kim Char Director Deputy Director CIO/CTO Gene Tan Finance Deputy Director Client Library Raju Public Library Services Angela Wong Buddharaju Publishing Programmes Beh Chew Leng Deputy Director and Research and Events Director Services (Covering) Organisation Kiang-Koh Lai Lin Properties and Corporate Johnson Paul Deputy Director and Facilities Development Deputy Director Management Judy Quek Publicity and Customer Surjit Singh Deputy Director Exhibitions Relations Deputy Director Low Kwee Fah Contact Corporate Deputy Director Centre / QSM Knowledge Communications and Quality NDL Group Cassandra Tay Management Services Deputy Director Lim Theam Siew Low Kwee Fah Senior Director Deputy Director Professional and (Covering) International Relations Digital Library Services Ngian Lek Choh Deputy Chief Executive Raju Buddharaju Director Partnerships and Development Ng Yew Kang Consultant
12 Highlights of the Year
Dr Ng Eng Hen, Guest-of-honour for the launch of the Speak Good English Movement 2004.
The kidsREAD programme was initiated to help children from lower-income families cultivate the love of reading. April 2004
On April 1, NLB signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China on cultural co-operation.
NLB launched the Speak Good English Movement on April 21 to encourage Singaporeans to "Speak Well, Be Understood". Dr Ng Eng Hen, then Acting Minister for Manpower and Minister of State for Education graced the event at The Arts House (Old Parliament).
NLB, together with five self-help groups, spearheaded the kidsREAD programme - a nation-wide initiative to promote the love of reading among young Singaporeans, particularly Student volunteers of the kidsREAD programme conducting a storytelling session for the children. those from lower-income families. The then Deputy Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong launched the programme on April 23 at the Woodlands Regional Library.
13 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 I NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | HIGHLIGHTS OF THE YEAR
May 2004
NLB signed a letter of intent with the Thai Government on May 28 to help establish a Design Reference Library for Thailand. NLB will provide supporting services from library conceptualisation and facilities planning, to actual development and deployment.
NLB organised the "My Family Recipe" National Creative Writing Contest, in celebration of the International Year of the Family 2004. The contest, which was supported by the Ministry of Community Development and Sports and Family Matters! Singapore encouraged family members to write a story about a family recipe that holds meaning Crowds gathered outside the entrance of the newly-renovated Jurong Regional Library eagerly awaiting its re-opening. to the family, and to promote cross-cultural understanding by encouraging Singaporeans of all races to share their recipes and family stories.
June 2004
NLB's third and largest regional library to date, the Jurong Regional Library officially opened on June 4 with a floor area of 12,020 square metres and a theme of fusion of the arts, business and technology. The then Acting Minister for Education, Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam was the Guest- of-honour. The opening also saw the launch of a specialised library - "Verging All Teens" which was inspired by, created for and run by teens. This library aims to reach out to teenagers with a distinct collection of various genres of comics Effervescent rock performances are a regular occurrence at the and graphic novels as well as works by award- "Verging All Teens" Library which is designed and run by teens. winning mainstream writers. In addition, the library organises a host of activities for youth including band performances and interactive activities.
As part of its efforts to preserve the memories of the National Library at Stamford Road, NLB launched the second phase of the National Library Virtual Walkthrough on June 16. The Virtual Walkthrough allowed the public to "tour" the library and even "visit" areas which were previously inaccessible to them. This project was developed by Apple Singapore with the help of students from several primary and secondary schools and aimed to provide the public with a tool to keep the memories of the cultural icon alive and offer interesting information about the library's history and background.
The Virtual Walkthrough allowed the public to view the National Library at Stamford Road via the Internet.
14 HIGHLIGHTS OF THE YEAR | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
June 2004
Having served more than nine years as NLB's founding Chief Executive, Dr Christopher Chia relinquished his position on June 1, leaving behind an impressive legacy of a revolutionised library system. During his term, he successfully transformed libraries into lifestyle places and wooed more visitors back to the libraries.
July 2004
For the first time, NLB clinched the Singapore Family Friendly Employer Award - a biennial award The setting up of the "The American Comer" was part of a joint to recognise organisations for their pro-family partnership between NLB, the American Embassy and Temasek efforts and worklife-friendly programmes. Junior College.
NLB signed a Memorandum of Understanding on July 6 with the Perpustakaan Nasional Republik Indonesia for co-operation in library management, reference and information services.
August 2004
As part of a joint partnership between NLB, the American Embassy in Singapore and Temasek Junior College, the "The American Corner" was set up in Temasek Junior College, furnished with books on specific American related subjects.
NLB organised the "Profile of a Singapore Don Lim shared with the crowd the challenges he faced in setting up Entrepreneur" (POSE) series for the second his chicken pie business at the POSE 2004 workshop. year running, in partnership with Hong Leong Finance. Four successful entrepreneurs shared their personal experiences and challenges at library@orchard. The sessions attracted overwhelming public response.
September 2004
NLB's new Chief Executive, Dr N Varaprasad took to the helm on September 15, bringing with him extensive experience in the education industry. He will lead NLB into the next phase of development.
NLB was one of three organisations which won the coveted Singapore Quality Award (SQA) 2004. This award marks the highest level of business Dreamed, challenged and overcame. NLB management rejoice at the excellence in Singapore. SQA achievement.
15 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | HIGHLIGHTS OF THE YEAR
September 2004
NLB co-organised the Innovation Expedition 2004 with the Civil Service College of Singapore from September 15 to 16. The creativity and innovation conference at Orchard Hotel attracted over 200 participants from both the public and private sectors.
Jointly organised by NLB and the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports, the Born to Read fiesta was held on September 18 and 19 at the atrium@orchard. Programmes at the fiesta included story dramatisation, workshops and parenting talks.
Adding a fun new element to the Asian Children's Festival - this cooking workshop held at Ritz-Carlton Millenia Hotel proved a big hit.
October 2004
NLB achieved the distinguished Platinum H.E.A.L.T.H. (Helping Employees Achieve Lifetime Health) Award presented by the Health Promotion Board after achieving five consecutive years of the gold award. The national award is given to organisations with commendable workplace health promotion programmes.
NLB garnered the prestigious 2004 Distinguished Public Service Award, the highest organisational excellence award in the civil service, for having achieved the Singapore Quality Award, People Developer Standard and ISO Certification.
A perennial favourite of the Asian Children's Festival is the MRT Read-and-Ride. November 2004
NLB launched the fifth annual Asian Children's Festival (ACF) with a range of activities to promote the creative and joyous learning of Asian culture and values. Held over 18 days from November 18 to December 5, the event attracted over 200,000 attendees with its 266 activities.
The 2004 ACF saw a reprisal of popular favourites including the Great Singapore Stories, MRT Read-and-Ride, Pyjamas Night @the libraries and Storytelling Extravaganzas.
Children were entertained by international storytellers at the Pyjamas Night @the libraries activity.
16 HIGHLIGHTS OF THE YEAR | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
November 2004
NLB also organised the largest ever Asian Children's Expo from November 18 to 21 together with 33 event partners such as the National Heritage Board, Asian Civilisations Museum and SingTel. Activities include the Nurturing Readers Forum, held in collaboration with the Singapore Press Foundation, as well as a cooking workshop with the Ritz-Carlton Millenia Hotel, where children of the Singapore Children's Society engaged in a fun-filled experience of making Christmas log cakes.
The Nurturing Readers Forum, organised in collaboration with the December 2004 Singapore Press Foundation, provided young parents with useful tips of inculcating the reading habit in their children. As secretariat of the Promote Mandarin Council, NLB launched the Speak Mandarin Campaign (SMC) to mark its 25th anniversary. With the tagline, Cool", it hoped to reach out to the post-65 generation of English-speaking Chinese Singaporeans who do not use or use very little Mandarin at home or in public. Guest-of-honour, Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew graced the event on December 13 at the NTUC Auditorium.
On December 9, NLB launched the "Moments in Time" book, which is a compilation of personal anecdotes and recollections of the National Library by the public, and is the last in a series of efforts by the NLB to preserve the memories of the National Library at Stamford Road. The project idea was seeded by Ms Lim Soo Hoon, Chairman of NLB, to preserve the sentiments and experiences of both library users and staff across its 44 years of Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew officiated the 25th anniversary of the history. Contributors to the book included Members Speak Mandarin Campaign. of Parliament, former staff, literary figures and the public-at-large.
NLB developed three new programmes to inspire creativity and raise awareness among members of the public of creative industries in Singapore. Brief Encounters (BE) aims to build creative capability within the community and make art and creation accessible for the average person. Aspiration Pathfinder (AsPI) Movement aims to train senior citizens as volunteers in the library and community networks, while AsPI Careers strives to expose and create opportunities for working adults to pursue alternative professions in the creative industries.
The "Moments in Time" book comprised of the personal anecdotes and recollections of the National Library at Stamford Road by the public, staff, literary figures and ministers.
17 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 I NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | HIGHLIGHTS OF THE YEAR
January 2005
NLB held its seventh Library Book Sale at the Suntec City Convention Hall from January 7 to 9. More than 300,000 English, Chinese, Malay and Tamil books were put on sale. On January 7, at the Charity Book Donation Ceremony, NLB also donated 46,000 books to 70 charitable organisations.
NLB launched the NLB Online Repository of Artistic Works (NORA), a collection of unpublished and out-of-print artistic works by local contributors on January 27 at the library@orchard. NORA makes available to the public a comprehensive collection of local literary works via the Internet. More than 300,000 books were available at the annual Library Book Sale 2005.
February 2005
After eight months of upgrading work, the Bukit Merah Community Library was re-opened by Guest-of-honour, Associate Professor Koo Tsai Kee, Senior Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Environment and Water Resources and Member of Parliament for Tanjong Pagar Group Representative Constituency, on February 25. The upgraded library features an updated collection with audio-visual materials and a comics collection, improved layout design and additional facilities like transaction kiosks, a quiet reading room and a lift.
Professor Edwin Thumboo reading an extract of one of the literary March 2005 works found on NORA. NLB was admitted as the Chief Information Officer (CIO) 100 Honouree 2005 of CIO Asia's annual index of Asia's top performing enterprise users of IT.
For the first time, NLB was a recipient at the prestigious HRM Singapore Awards 2005 organised by the Health Promotion Board, winning in the inaugural category of "Best Workplace Health Practices".
The Temporary Occupation Permit (T.O.P.) for the new National Library building was issued by the Building Construction Authority on March 16. The new National Library at Victoria Street will open to the public in July 2005.
NLB Chief Executive, Dr N Varaprasad, together with Associate Professor Koo Tsai Kee re-opened the Bukit Merah Community Library on February 25.
18 Year in Review
REALISE
FY 2004 marked a major milestone in the annals of NLB with the fulfilment of the objectives as outlined in the Library 2000 blueprint, which led to the transformation of the library system in Singapore. Under the leadership of NLB's founding Chief Executive Dr Christopher Chia, Singapore witnessed a major transformation of the library system, with the library becoming an integral part of the Singapore community. The number of visitors, loans and usage of services all saw healthy growth figures and NLB was recognised internationally as a pioneer in library services.
Dr N Varaprasad took over the reigns at the helm in September 2004 and is harnessing his extensive experience in the education industry to plan and delineate Library 2010 - the new masterplan propelling NLB into its next phase of development. The Library 2010 plan will focus on expanding the role of libraries in the knowledge economy and to developing knowledge-enabled Singaporeans.
The National Library at Stamford Road closed to the public on March 31, 2004 after 44 years. The Temporary Occupation Permit (T.O.P.) for the new National Library building was issued by the Building Construction Authority on March 16, 2005. The 16-storey building covers an area five times larger than the original National Library at Stamford Road. The crown jewel is the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library and will house the Social Sciences, Humanities, Science and Technology Collections, The Arts and Business Collections, Chinese, Malay and Tamil Collections, the Asian Children's Collection, the Donors' Collections, the Singapore and Southeast Asian Collections and a Rare Materials Collection. Apart from the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library, the building also houses the Central Lending Library, the Drama Centre, and a host of other facilities and programming spaces designed to enrich the learning experience for library-goers. The new National Library will be home to over 630,000 items and strives to be a modern knowledge hub that will meet the information and research needs of scholars, professionals, researchers, the general public and students in Singapore and beyond.
During the year, NLB saw the fruition of its ongoing efforts to improve business processes and to become a people-centric organisation. It was recognised by industry with a string of awards, some of the more notable ones being the Singapore Quality Award, the Platinum H.E.A.L.T.H. Award and the Distinguished Public Service Award. The Singapore Quality Award, which marks the highest level of business excellence in Singapore is particularly prestigious, having inducted fewer than 20 companies and organisations into its ranks since it started in 1994. The award is testimony to the world-class library system that NLB has put in place and recognises its exemplary leadership and management, innovative use of technology and people-centric approach.
The infrastructure that NLB has built in the Library 2000 plan will form the foundational blocks for NLB to REALISE the possibility to - Respond, Engage, Advance, Learn, Influence, Synergise and Empower and achieve the goals set out in the Library 2010 plan. NLB's libraries will allow library users to expand their wealth of knowledge, ignite their imagination and experience a world of possibility.
19 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 I NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | YEAR IN REVIEW
Loong Poke Meng, 63 A consultant with the Singapore Land Authority, he frequents the library for research materials on Singapore's land use.
Since 1965, I have been going to the library to research on Singapore's history. In the old days, research was a time-consuming task. I remember there was a book on Malayan history by L.A. Mills which was much sought after by all scholars. To read the book, we had to queue up and were sometimes restricted to a one-hour limit!
Today, with microfilm, access to old books, documents and newspaper articles has improved greatly. Research can also be done more efficiently as materials are now more accessible and readily available. With the newly implemented extended hours, I can now come in early in the morning and do my research when it is quieter and less crowded.
20 YEAR IN REVIEW j NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005 Respond
Staying responsive in a fast-changing environment is a fundamental factor to remaining relevant. NLB constantly anticipates public needs and works towards providing better service so as to add value to Singapore's knowledge economy.
In the last of a series of efforts to preserve the NLB continued with its preservation project of rare memories of the National Library at Stamford Road, and heritage materials, first started in 2003. Working NLB initiated a call for stories on the National Library closely with the National Archives of Singapore, and the "Moments in Time" book was launched on NLB identified about 85,000 items, including rare December 9, 2004. The book is a collection of stories, books, donor collections and maps and posters on anecdotes and personal experiences of the library by Singapore. The materials in poor physical condition Members of Parliament, former staff, literary figures were treated while relevant ones were preserved and members of the public. Copies were made through microfilming, meta-tagging and digitisation. available for sale to allow the public to own a piece The materials will be housed at the Lee Kong Chian of the history of the former National Library. Reference Library's Rare Materials Collection.
A journal of a tour along the coast of Java and Bali, this is the first known published book in Singapore that NLB possesses.
During the year, some rare items were acquired
The "Moments in Time" book includes stories, anecdotes and personal by NLB. They were: experiences of the public, staff and well-known personalities. 1. Irathinasurukkam by Syed Muhamad Haneefathul Kadri, and printed in the Javi Peranakan Company The NLB Online Repository of Artistic Works (NORA), owned by Syed Printing House, Singapore in 1878. was launched on January 27, 2005. It allows the public to gain access via the Internet to a comprehensive This is a religious text, which expounds the teachings collection of unpublished and out-of-print literary of the Koran. It is written in Tamil with a liberal use of works by local contributors. The works which are Arabic terms. This is currently the earliest Tamil book available on the NLB Digital Library include poetry, published in Singapore held by NLB. plays and works of fiction by more than 20 prominent 2. An unpublished letter of Sir Stamford Raffles Singaporean writers and composers including dated April 21, 1825. This was written to a friend Ovidia Yu, the late Kuo Pao Kun, Lee Tzu Pheng, Stella after his return to London. Kon, Desmond Sim, Haresh Sharma and Felix Cheong. 3. 'Nova tabula Insularum lavae, Sumatrae, Borneonis et aliarum Mallaccam usquae, delineata in insula lava, ubi ad vivum disignantur vada et Brevia scopulique interjacentesdescripta a C.M.A.L. - Neuwe und Eijgentliche Furbildung, der Inseln, Java, Sumatra, Borneo, bis gen Malaca, mit alen umligenden kleinen Inseln, corect und mit gansem fleis in der Insel Java observiert und abgerissen durchG.M.A.L.' This is a rare map showing Malaya, Singapore, Sumatra, Java and Borneo by Theodore de Bry, 1598. Size: 43cm x 37 cm. 4. An album of 116 photographs on Singapore, The Protem Committee comprising Mr Alvin Pang, Ms Madeleine Lee and Ms Eleanor Wong together with Mrs Lim Siew Kim, Malaya and Batavia taken between 1880s and Deputy Director of Library and Professional Services viewing the 1890s. Pictures of Singapore include Esplanade contents on the NORA website at the launch. Drive, City Hall, Cavenagh Drive and Boat Quay.
21 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | YEAR IN REVIEW
Paul Koh, 51 A professional magician, he uses the library as a source of information for his entertainment business and hobbies.
Growing up, I couldn't afford books, so the library was very special to me. In 1964,I borrowed a couple of books on simple magic tricks from the Joo Chiat Library and that fuelled my interest. I did my first paid magic show at age 12. Later, I even bought one of the books - Blackstone's "Tricks Anyone Can Do". I still have the book today!
Today, I run my own business performing magic and balloon tricks for parties and events. I still visit the library to read up on my hobbies, like rock-climbing, Chinese knots, even tarantulas! I bring my son with me and he helps me search for the books. I have been able to find books on almost anything at the library, it constantly delivers beyond my expectatic
22 YEAR IN REVIEW | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005 Engage
Central to NLB's successful integration with the community is our ability to proactively engage different groups of public, to elicit participation and encourage involvement in activities related to learning.
Three new creativity programmes were developed NLB launched the fifth annual Asian Children's by NLB to inspire creativity and raise awareness Festival (ACF) with a wide spectrum of activities among members of the public of creative industries to celebrate and honour children as well as to in Singapore. These programmes were among promote Asian culture and values. Officially launched the first projects to be supported by Creative on November 18, 2004 by Dr Amy Khor, Mayor of Community Singapore (CCS) headed by the Ministry Southwest Community Development Council, the of Information, Communications and the Arts. 18-day festival attracted over 200,000 attendees at its 266 activities. As part of the ACF, the Great Singapore l Brief Encounters (BE) aims to build creative Stories (GSS) on November 27, 2004 featured popular capability within the community and make GSS events which included the MRT Read-and- art and creation accessible for the average Ride, Pyjamas Night @the libraries, and Storytelling person. The programme is modelled after Extravaganzas, where more than 3,000 children and the Florentine patronage system during the adults were entertained. Sponsorship in cash and kind Medici period where an artist is given support was garnered for the GSS events, which included gift to develop works of art. packs for the children and storytelling services from * Aspiration Pathfinder (AsPI) Movement aims to local celebrities such as MediaCorp's newsreader encourage senior citizens to remain socially active Ng Siew Leng and local author James Lee. in the community by volunteering with the library. Volunteers are trained to conduct workshops or programmes in the library and community networks. 3 AsPI Careers strives to expose and create opportunities for working adults to pursue alternative professions in the creative industries. A group of 30 mid-career adults were given the opportunity to interact with practitioners in the creative industries and learn more about their professions.
The ACF was launched with a big bang by Guest-of-honour, Dr Amy Khor.
Kick-starting the ACF was the largest ever Asian Children's Expo, organised from November 18 to 21 in partnership with 33 event partners such as the National Heritage Board, Asian Civilisations Museum and SingTel. The collaborations not only helped to enrich the content and variety of the festival, they also played a part in reaching out to a larger audience. One Senior citizens explore their creativity in water colour painting at popular activity was the Nurturing Readers Forum, this AsPI Movement workshop. partnered with the Singapore Press Foundation, which enjoyed an overwhelming response. Another unique activity was a cooking workshop, organised with the Ritz-Carlton Millenia Hotel, where children of the Singapore Children's Society engaged in a fun-filled experience making Christmas log cakes.
23 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | YEAR IN REVIEW
Kristina Tom, 24 She is a journalist with The Straits Times and is a poetry buff - reading and writing poetry in her free time.
To me, the library is an integral part of the community. Since I was young, I have been visiting the library every week - a habit that I still try to keep today. I find the libraries in Singapore very vibrant and lively, with a lot more activity than traditional libraries.
I was eager to find out more about local poetry and poets. At the library, I found a whole section on local literary works and I would spend entire afternoons there just reading. In particular, I found an anthology of local poetry with biographies of local writers from which I learnt more about Stella Kon, Robert Yeo and other Singapore writers.
24 YEAR IN REVIEW | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005 Engage
Launched in 2001, the Born to Read, Read to Bond 3. Two reading programmes - My Reading Cub and programme continued its efforts to inculcate the My Reading Bear - continued to be implemented reading habit among youth as a form of family to reach out to children aged zero to six and seven bonding. In FY 2004, NLB conducted five activities to 12 respectively. During the year, a total of 1,400 as part of the programme. parents completed My Reading Cub, borrowing about 112,000 books for their children. My Reading Bear managed to reach out to 117 schools where almost 167,000 school children participated in the programme. 4. The Raise a Reader (RAR) workshops aim to teach parents how to create a supportive home reading environment for their children through meaningful play and other activities. A total of 13 workshops were held, attracting 325 participants. Six workshops were also conducted for the Association for Early Childhood Educators (Singapore).
Mr Chew Hock Yong, Guest-of-honour at the Born to Read fiesta presenting certificates to the creative writing competition winners.
1. Peek-a-Book pouches were distributed to parents of newborns at nine participating hospitals. The pouches contained booklists and reading tips for parents in four languages, as well as tips on parenting. A total of 27,522 pouches were distributed. 2. A membership drive was conducted, targeting newborns to three-year-olds. Parents were Parents participating enthusiastically at the Raise a Reader workshop. encouraged to register their children as library members. Upon registration and the borrowing of four books, each child received a reading bag with 5. Jointly organised by NLB and the Ministry of items from the reading ambassadors. A total of Community Development, Youth and Sports, the 22,517 new members were registered. Born to Read fiesta was held from September 18 to 19 at the atrium@orchard. The Guest-of- honour for the event was Mr Chew Hock Yong, Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports. Programmes at the fiesta included story dramatisation, workshops, and parenting talks. Storytelling, balloon-sculpting and face-painting were other popular activities with the children. The event attracted about 3,000 visitors and generated some 650 loans, 13 new members and 120 enquiries.
The Born to Read fiesta bustled with activities which included animated storytelling sessions.
25 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | YEAR IN REVIEW
Shirley Ng, 50s A homemaker, she leads an active life immersed in volunteerism and her leisure hobbies.
Several years ago, I was looking for a hobby to relieve the stress I faced in my work as a manager with a medical facility. I chanced upon a friend making a teddy bear and was intrigued. Inspired, I bought a teddy bear making kit and was hooked! I could spend hours at a stretch making my teddy bears - it was very therapeutic.
To improve my skills, I borrowed handicraft books from the library on making teddy bears. The books served as very useful reference guides, with step-by-step instructions and easy-to- follow templates. Besides helping me hone the correct techniques, they also inspired me with new patterns and styles. The library is truly a valuable resource for ideas.
26 YEAR IN REVIEW | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005 Advance
NLB's infrastructure and library services are among the best in the world. We maintain excellence by continually advancing technology and state-of-the-art facilities.
Jurong Regional Library, NLB's largest library to After eight months of upgrading work, the Bukit date, was officially opened by Guest-of-honour, Merah Community Library was re-opened by Mr Tharman Shamugaratnam, the then Acting Minister Guest-of-honour, Associate Professor Koo Tsai Kee, for Education on June 4, 2004. Occupying a space of Senior Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Defence 12,020 square metres, it is themed "Fusion of the and Ministry of Environment and Water Resources Arts, Business and Technology" and is positioned to and Member of Parliament, Tanjong Pagar Group serve the cultural, educational and informational needs Representative Constituency, on February 25, 2005. of the community in the western region. A unique The new library boasts a comprehensive host of feature of the library is its focus on youth. A special new features, including an updated collection with teens library, "Verging all Teens", was inspired by, audio-visual materials and a comics collection, created for and run by teens. improved layout design and additional facilities like transaction kiosks, a quiet reading room and a lift. A Transaction Kiosk prototype at the library allows an alternative mode of cashless payment via NETS.
The former Jurong East Community Library re-opened as the Jurong Regional Library on June 4, 2004 and has a special library catered for teens.
Associate Professor Koo Tsai Kee on his tour of the re-opened The library also contains the first prototype of the Bukit Merah Community Library on February 25, 2005. Transaction Kiosk, a one-stop self-service kiosk which enables customers to access membership services, check their library accounts, make library- The Temporary Occupation Permit (TO.P.) for the related payments and top up their CashCards. The new National Library building was issued by the Transaction Kiosk replaces the current Borrower's Building Construction Authority on March 16, 2005. Enquiry station, the Remote Membership Registration To give members of the public a glimpse of the kiosk and the top-up stations, reducing the need new National Library before it opens its doors in July for special dedicated kiosks and allowing for more 2005, a Virtual Flythrough of the library was created optimal use of technology and equipment. by Singapore Polytechnic students. The four-minute online video available at NLB's website takes visitors on a virtual tour of key areas in the library.
NLB expanded the range of benefits enjoyed by users of the SAFTI Military Institute Library. From May 1, 2004, users can pick up their reserved SAFTI Ml Library items, check and pay fees at both the library@orchard as well as the Sembawang Community Library. Users can also return books borrowed from the SAFTI Ml Library at any of the NLB bookdrops and vice versa.
27 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | YEAR IN REVIEW
Li Ke Wei, 13 A Primary 6 student prefect in Rulang Primary School, he loves to visit the library to read English books to better his language skills.
Every fortnight, I would visit the library with my friends to borrow books. By reading English books, my English has improved a lot, especially in forming sentences. Reading also helps me gain better knowledge in my interest topics like World War II.
As books are relatively expensive here compared to China, the library is a popular place for students like me. I also look forward to the annual Library Book Sale as I can find many interesting titles at low prices. At the last sale, I bought about 40 books.
28 YEAR IN REVIEW | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005 Learn
Learning is the core focus of NLB. We promote lifelong learning among all community groups in Singapore and some of the ways in which we do this include the organising of conferences, forums and other events.
In partnership with Hong Leong Finance, NLB Together with the Civil Service College of Singapore, organised the second series of entrepreneurship NLB organised a two-day Innovation Expedition from talks entitled "Profile of a Singapore Entrepreneur" September 15 to 16, 2004. NLB developed both the (POSE) on August 24, 2004. Four prominent industry framework for the conference as well as the materials. speakers shared their personal experiences and During the conference, NLB held four new creativity challenges. They were Mr Don Linn Teck Fatt, workshops and introduced a profiling tool called founder of Don Your Personal Pie Club, Mr Casey CREED. The creativity and innovation conference at Lee Kok Cheong of Chevon International Private Orchard Hotel attracted over 200 participants from Limited, Mr Koh Seow Chuan, founder director of both the public and private sectors. DP Architects Private Limited and DP Consultants Private Limited, and Mr Victor Ow Chun Ming, NLB supports the Nanyang Technological University founder and chief executive of Clydesbuilt (NTU) and the Singapore Press Club in their regular Development Private Limited. A resource guide was "Mediabuzz Nights", which they organise for press produced and distributed to the 900 participants club members and media students of NTU. During at library@orchard over the four sessions. these workshops, students and club members get to listen and interact with veteran journalists, government press secretaries, media industry experts and heads of the respective media owners. The topic discussed during the September 22, 2004 workshop was on the media merger between the Singapore Press Holdings and MediaCorp. The event saw an overwhelming response of close to 100 attendees. The second workshop was held on March 8, 2005 at the library@orchard and focused on the topic of the Asian Tsunami.
Dr Loo Choon Yong, Deputy Chairman of the Action Community of Entrepreneurship was the Guest-of-honour for the launch of the 2004 "Profile of a Singapore Entrepreneur" series.
Held at library@esplanade on September 22, 2004 students and press club members participated in a lively debate on the media merger.
29 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | YEAR IN REVIEW
Titan S. Sivakolunthu, 69 A retired teacher, he volunteers at the library three times a week.
Having been a teacher for more than 40 years, I fully appreciate the benefits of reading - it is essential to learning. I enjoy volunteering at the library because it keeps me active and I help play my part in spreading the love of reading. As a Friends of the Library volunteer, I help keep a conducive environment for learning by making sure there is minimal noise and disruption. The library organises many activities for senior citizens, which help promote lifelong learning. I enjoy participating in these activities.
30 YEAR IN REVIEW | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005 Influence
NLB stands tall as a pillar of influence in both the public and educational industries. Its string of awards is testimony to its commitment towards a service and people-oriented corporate culture.
NLB was one of three organisations which won the NLB achieved the distinguished Platinum coveted Singapore Quality Award (SQA) 2004. This is H.E.A.L.TH. (Helping Employees Achieve Lifetime the most prestigious award in Singapore recognising Health) Award presented by the Health Promotion business excellence. Since the award was initiated Board after achieving five consecutive years in 1994, fewer than 20 companies and organisations of the gold award. The national award is given have passed the rigorous assessment process to to organisations with commendable workplace emerge victorious. The award places NLB among health promotion programmes. the top in Singapore in terms of leadership and management, business processes and innovative use of resources and systems.
One of the many sports activities which the NLB organises to promote a healthy lifestyle for staff.
Winning the Singapore Quality Award 2004 was a recognition of NLB's business excellence. NLB clinched the prestigious 2004 Distinguished Public Service Award, the second highest organisational excellence award in the civil service, For the first time, NLB garnered the Singapore for having achieved the Singapore Quality Award, Family Friendly Employer Award - a biennial award People Developer Standard and ISO Certification. by the Tripartite Committee (Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports, Ministry of Manpower, National Employers Foundation, National Trades Union Congress) to recognise organisations for their pro-family efforts and worklife-friendly programmes.
NLB has been awarded the Chief Information Officer (CIO) 100 Honouree 2005 by CIO Asia Magazine, in recognition of its enterprising use of IT
For the first time, NLB was a recipient at the prestigious HRM Singapore Awards 2005 organised by the Health Promotion Board. It was one of nine Another hat in the bag for NLB - the Distinguished Public Service winners in the inaugural category of "Best Workplace Award recognises NLB as a board of excellent standards. Health Practices". The award is given to organisations which display commendable workplace practices, such as comprehensive workplace health programmes, management support and participation, and effective promotion efforts.
31 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | YEAR IN REVIEW
Anuar Bin Othtnan, 48 An established Malay poetry and short stories writer, he has since published over 10 books and has won first prize in the Golden Point Award Competition organised by the National Arts Council.
As a writer, I need to do extensive research to back up the facts in my stories, which is why I frequent the library about three to four times a week. I find the Singapore collection and resources on local history in the libraries very comprehensive.
Apart from my research, I read widely - about 30 books a month - especially those by award-winning writers. Reading challenges the mind and helps me grow intellectually.
32 YEAR IN REVIEW | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005 Synergise
Collaborating with external parties is an effective way of building our regional and international networks. By sharing technology and services, and building on each others' strengths, the result can only be a win-win situation for all.
On April 1, 2004 NLB signed a Memorandum of As part of a joint partnership between NLB, the Understanding with the Government of the American Embassy in Singapore and Temasek Junior Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the College, the "The American Corner" was set up in People's Republic of China on cultural co-operation. Temasek Junior College. The reading corner was furnished with books on specific American related NLB signed a letter of intent with the Thai subjects. Programmes were also organised Government on May 28, 2004 to help establish to raise awareness among students about the US. a Design Reference Library for Thailand. NLB will provide supporting services from library conceptualisation and facilities planning, to actual development and deployment.
NLB signed a Memorandum of Understanding on July 6, 2004 with the Perpustakaan Nasional Republik Indonesia for co-operation in library management, reference and information services.
NLB attended the World Library and Information Congress: 70th IFLA Conference in Buenos Aires, from August 22 to 27, 2004. The papers presented at the conference by representatives from With the set up of "The American Corner" at TJC, the American international libraries were interesting and useful. Embassy will provide books on America to the school for the Many of the presenters were specialised and had benefit of the students. indepth knowledge about libraries. NLB presented a paper on the Teens Library prototype. An NLB The NLB works closely with foreign embassies booth was set up at the IFLA Exhibition offering on book exchanges. On October 28, 2004 services such as sourcing, selection, cataloguing, Mr Park Sung Ho, Cultural Attache at the Korean showcasing of the RFID technology and also Embassy delivered about 70 English books on Korea library consultancy. NLB staff also visited various to the Library Supply Centre. On February 15, 2005 libraries including the Argentine National Library, Ms Judith Fergin, Deputy Chief of Mission of the the National University of LA PLATA Public Library, American Embassy presented a collection of print and a village library called "Popular Library" which and non-print materials on American society, culture, had its roots in villagers coming together to share education and the arts to the NLB. the books that they have read.
Mr Park Sung Ho, Cultural Attache at the Korean Embassy personally delivers English books on Korea to the Library The NLB booth at the IFLA Exhibition, Buenos Aires from Supply Centre. August 22 to 27.
33 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 I NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | YEAR IN REVIEW
Kelvin Ang Cheng Shin, 23 A trainee with the multi-media centre of the Society for the Physically Disabled, he is one of the beneficiaries of the NLB Charity Book Donation.
The multi-media centre trains individuals like me in useful skills like web designing and desktop publishing. I can design elementary websites, e-greeting cards and simple brochures. After completing my three-year training stint, I will be able to look for web designing jobs and be self-sufficient.
The design and technology books donated by the NLB at the annual Charity Book Donation serve as valuable resource tools. I refer to them frequently for design ideas and when I am stuck with a problem. Having the books at the centre also makes them very accessible.
34 YEAR IN REVIEW | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005 Empower
NLB plays the role of social leveller as it strives to instil in all Singaporeans the basic foundational skills of language and literacy, regardless of age or social strata. With these skills, the population would be empowered to contribute to the knowledge economy and build better lives for themselves.
The kidsREAD programme was launched on As part of efforts to serve the needs of special April 23, 2004 by the then Deputy Prime Minister children, children librarians from the northern and Lee Hsien Loong at the Woodlands Regional Library. western region libraries started conducting regular This programme is targeted at children aged four to storytelling sessions at Jurong Garden School (MINDS) eight and aims to cultivate good reading habits among - a school for intellectually disabled children and the young Singaporeans, especially those from lower- Pathlight School - a school for autistic children. This income families. It also promotes reading as a family service helps open up a new world of learning for the and community bonding activity. The idea was initiated children and brings them one step closer towards by Dr Yaacob Ibrahim, former Minister for Community integrating with mainstream society. Teachers of the Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS). He called schools have praised the programme for its ability to for self-help groups who have been conducting their engage the children in a fun and interactive way. own reading programmes, to pool resources with NLB and the People's Association to put in place an For the second consecutive year, NLB organised integrated reading programme for children regardless the Speak Good English Movement. Dr Ng Eng Hen, of race, language or religion. A total of 18 reading then Acting Minister for Manpower and Minister of clubs were set up, catering to about 600 children. State for Education, launched the event on April 21, Besides acting as the secretariat, NLB also developed 2004 at The Arts House (Old Parliament). With the the materials, trained volunteers for the programme tagline, "Speak Well, Be Understood", the campaign and held education and orientation talks for parents. continued to focus on children and students but A kidsREAD Starter Kit was developed to serve as a with an additional target audience of working adults, resource guide for volunteers who run the reading particularly those in the service industry. clubs. The programme was sponsored by Singapore Pools and supported by MCYS. As secretariat of the Promote Mandarin Council, NLB launched the Speak Mandarin Campaign (SMC) for the second consecutive year. The 2004 campaign, entitled Cool", was targeted at the post-65 generation of English-speaking Chinese Singaporeans who do not use or use very little Mandarin at home or in public. The tagline was chosen to bring home the message that Mandarin is a hip and happening language. The Guest-of-honour, Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew launched the SMC 2004 on December 13 at the NTUC Auditorium. His key message was, "Good Mandarin starts at home. Stick with Mandarin as the home language to give the children a strong foundation." Ambassadors for the The then Deputy Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong giving a campaign included popular local singer, Joi Chua and speech at the launch of the kidsREAD programme at Woodlands rap band Chou Pi Jiang. Regional Library. The seventh annual Library Book Sale was held from The Aspiration Pathfinder (AsPI) Camp was held from January 8 to 9, 2005 at the Suntec City Convention December 1 to 3, 2004 at the National Community Hall. This year's sale saw a record 300,000 books Leadership Institute. Themed "Famous Librarians", in English, Chinese, Malay and Tamil languages for the camp's objectives were to teach creative thinking, sale at a nominal price of $1 to $2 each. info-literacy skills, as well as life skills such as leadership and teamwork. A total of 30 youths from As part of the Charity Book Donation on January 7, lower-income families participated in the camp. 2005, NLB gave away books, videotapes and Guest-of-honour, Ms Eunice Olsen, Nominated magazines to some 70 non-profit, charity and Member of Parliament, gave a motivational speech on welfare organisations. the importance of pursuing your dreams and related her own personal passion for music.
35 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 I NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | NATIONAL LIBRARY - A NEW CHAPTER
36 National Library - A New Chapter
Slated to open in July 2005, the new 16-storey National Reference Library form a valuable repository of the Library is situated in the heart of Singapore's arts, culture, nation's multicultural heritage in print and other media. learning and entertainment hub. With its expanded The range of collections include the Social Sciences, collections and services, the National Library strives to be Humanities, Science and Technology Collections; The a modern knowledge hub that will meet the information Arts and Business Collections; Chinese; Malay and and research needs of scholars, professionals, researchers Tamil Collections; the Singapore and Southeast Asian and students in Singapore and the region. Collections; and the Asian Children's Collection. In addition, the Donors' Collections comprise the private With a gross floor area of over 58,000 square metres, collections of individuals, organisations and societies. the National Library plays home to a treasure trove of These invaluable resources provide insights into the knowledge housing over 630,000 items. The Singapore lives of the donors, their lifelong interests and passions. and Southeast Asian Collections, which are the core The Rare Materials Collection cover extremely valuable collections of the new Library, comprises over 200,000 publications from the 19th and early 20th centuries, items made up of microfilms, maps, audio-visuals, many of which were issued by Singapore's earliest ephemera and more including works inherited from printing presses. predecessor libraries such as the Raffles Library. Such items, which were under the closed collections in the Complementing the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library former National Library, will now be openly available is the Central Lending Library. It focuses on visual, for public use. creative and literary arts, as well as business and management, to support the thriving businesses, art The crown jewel of the new National Library is the schools and groups, and residents in the area. The Lee Kong Chian Reference Library (LKCRL), named Central Lending Library will also cater to a broader after the late Dr Lee Kong Chian, founder of the Lee user group of children, the youth and adults, with its Foundation, which gave a $60 million donation towards extensive collection of mainstream materials and award the library. The various collections in the Lee Kong Chian winning literature in all of the four official languages.
37 Statistical Summary
Contents
39 Loans
40 Membership
41 Visitorship
43 Enquiries
44 Other Usage Indicators
45 Collection by Languages, Materials and Age Groups
47 Summary of New Titles Catalogued
48 Summary of Books Acquired STATISTICAL SUMMARY | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
Loans for FY 2003 to FY 2004
Name of Library FY 2003 FY 2004 Ang Mo Kio Community Library Bedok Community Library Bukit Batok Community Library Bukit Merah Community Library 1 Bukit Panjang Community Library Central Community Library Cheng San Community Library Choa Chu Kang Community Library Geylang East Community Library Jurong Regional Library3 Jurong West Community Library library@esplanade library@orchard Marine Parade Community Library National Reference Library 2 Pasir Ris Community Library Queenstown Community Library Sembawang Community Library Sengkang Community Library Tampines Regional Library Toa Payoh Community Library Woodlands Regional Library Yishun Community Library
Total Community Children's Libraries
Grand Total
Materials consulted at the libraries Government / Special Library Services and School /Academic Library Services
Note: 1. Bukit Merah Community Library was closed from 28 Jun 2004 to 25 Feb 2005 for upgrading works. 2. Central Community Library and National Reference Library were closed from 1 Apr 2004 till late Jul 2005 for relocation to the new National Library building. 3. Jurong East Community Library was closed from 2 Jun 2003 to 4 Jun 2004 for upgrading works and was renamed the Jurong Regional Library on 1 Apr 2004.
39 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | STATISTICAL SUMMARY
Membership for FY 2003 to FY 2004
Name of Library FY 2003 FY 2004 Ang Mo Kio Community Library Bedok Community Library Bukit Batok Community Library Bukit Merah Community Library 1 Bukit Panjang Community Library Central Community Library 2 Cheng San Community Library Choa Chu Kang Community Library Geylang East Community Library Jurong Regional Library3 Jurong West Community Library library@esplanade library@orchard Marine Parade Community Library National Reference Library2 Pasir Ris Community Library Queenstown Community Library Sembawang Community Library Sengkang Community Library Tampines Regional Library Toa Payoh Community Library Woodlands Regional Library Yishun Community Library
Total Community Children's Libraries Portal
Grand Total
Premium Members
Note: 1. Bukit Merah Community Library was closed from 28 Jun 2004 to 25 Feb 2005 for upgrading works. 2. Central Community Library and National Reference Library were closed from 1 Apr 2004 till late Jul 2005 for relocation to the new National Library building. 3. Jurong East Community Library was closed from 2 Jun 2003 to 4 Jun 2004 for upgrading works and was renamed the Jurong Regional Library on 1 Apr 2004.
40 STATISTICAL SUMMARY | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
Visitorship for FY 2003 to FY 2004
Name of Library FY 2003 FY 2004 Ang Mo Kio Community Library Bedok Community Library Bukit Batok Community Library Bukit Merah Community Library 1 Bukit Panjang Community Library Central Community Library/ National Reference Library 2 Cheng San Community Library Choa Chu Kang Community Library Geylang East Community Library Jurong Regional Library3 Jurong West Community Library library@esplanade library@orchard Marine Parade Community Library Pasir Ris Community Library Queenstown Community Library Sembawang Community Library Sengkang Community Library Tampines Regional Library Toa Payoh Community Library Woodlands Regional Library Yishun Community Library
Total Community Children's Libraries
Grand Total
Note: 1. Bukit Merah Community Library was closed from 28 Jun 2004 to 25 Feb 2005 for upgrading works. 2. Central Community Library and National Reference Library were closed from 1 Apr 2004 till late Jul 2005 for relocation to the new National Library building. 3. Jurong East Community Library was closed from 2 Jun 2003 to 4 Jun 2004 for upgrading works and was renamed the Jurong Regional Library on 1 Apr 2004.
41 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | STATISTICAL SUMMARY
Visitorship for FY 2003 to FY 2004 (cont'd)
The following branches were closed during FY 2003 and FY 2004:
Name of Library FY 2003 FY 2004 Bukit Merah Community Library Central Community Library Jurong Regional Library National Reference Library Queenstown Community Library*
* Queenstown Community Library was closed from 4 Feb 2003 to 31 Oct 2003.
The following branches were opened/re-opened during FY 2003 and FY 2004:
Name of Library FY 2003 FY 2004 Bukit Merah Community Library Jurong Regional Library Queenstown Community Library
42 STATISTICAL SUMMARY | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
Enquiries for FY 2003 to FY 2004
Name of Library FY 2003 FY 2004 Ang Mo Kio Community Library Bedok Community Library Bukit Batok Community Library Bukit Merah Community Library 1 Bukit Panjang Community Library Central Community Library2 Cheng San Community Library Choa Chu Kang Community Library Geylang East Community Library Jurong Regional Library3 Jurong West Community Library library@esplanade library@orchard Marine Parade Community Library National Reference Library 2 Pasir Ris Community Library Queenstown Community Library Sembawang Community Library Sengkang Community Library Tampines Regional Library Toa Payoh Community Library Woodlands Regional Library Yishun Community Library
Total Community Children's Libraries Contact Centre Government / Special Library Services and School /Academic Library Services
Grand Total
Note: 1. Bukit Merah Community Library was closed from 28 Jun 2004 to 25 Feb 2005 for upgrading works. 2. Central Community Library and National Reference Library were closed from 1 Apr 2004 till late Jul 2005 for relocation to the new National Library building. 3. Jurong East Community Library was closed from 2 Jun 2003 to 4 Jun 2004 for upgrading works and was renamed the Jurong Regional Library on 1 Apr 2004.
43 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 I NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE I STATISTICAL SUMMARY
Other Usage Indicators for FY 2003 to FY 2004
Electronic Logons
e-services FY 2003 FY 2004 NLB corporate website (www.nlb.gov.sg) PANS / Info Tap (from FY 2003) Student Virtual Community Digital Library /eLibraryHub (www.elibraryhub.com)
Total
Note: i) SVC was subsumed into DL w.e.f. FY 2003. ii) For NLB corporate website, total pageviews are used as there is no Logon (User ID and Password) facility.
Electronic Retrievals
e-services FY 2003 FY 2004 NLB corporate website (www.nlb.gov.sg) PANS / Info Tap (from FY 2003) Student Virtual Community InfoXpress Digital Library /eLibraryHub (www.elibraryhub.com)
Total
Note: i) InfoXpress does not have logon facility. ii) SVC was subsumed into DL w.e.f. FY 2003. iii) As at Aug 2004, SVC and InfoXpress will be excluded from overall e-retrievals statistics.
44 STATISTICAL SUMMARY I NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE I ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
Collection by Languages, Materials and Age Groups FY 2004
Languages
Books Serials Language No. of Titles No. of Items No. of Titles No. of Items Malay Chinese Tamil English
Total
Special Materials*
Format No. of Titles No. of Items Art Print Compact Disc Computer File + CD-ROMs DVD VCD Filmstrip Kit Map Microfiche Microfilm Music Score Recorded Disc Talking Books Tape Recording Tape Slide Videocassette Videodisc + Laserdisc Others**
Total Grand Total (Books, Serials + Special Materials)
* Excludes items not bar-coded. ** Includes Braille, game, motion picture, wall chart, flash card, picture collection, ephemera and manuscript. A total of 33 databases were subscribed.
No. of Titles No. of Titles (Books, Serials, (Books, Serials, Special Materials) Special Materials)
45 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | STATISTICAL SUMMARY
Collection by Languages, Materials and Age Groups FY 2004 (cont'd)
Age Groups
Adults Books Serials Language No. of Titles No. of Items No. of Titles No. of Items Malay Chinese Tamil English
Total
Young People Books Serials Language No. of Titles No. of Items No. of Titles | No. of Items Malay Chinese Tamil English
Total
Children Books Serials Language No. of Titles No. of Items No. of Titles No. of Items Malay Chinese Tamil English
Total
No. of Malay Titles No. of Chinese Titles No. of Tamil Titles No. of English Titles by Age Group by Age Group bv Aqe Group by Age Group
Adults Adults Adults Adults Young Peop Young Peopl Young People Young People Children Children Children Children
No. of Malay Items No. of Chinese Items No. of Tamil Items No. of English Items by Age Group by Age Group by Age Group by Age Group
Adults Adults Adults Adults Young People Young People Young People Young People 46 Children Children Children Children STATISTICAL SUMMARY | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
Summary of New Titles Catalogued
FY 2002
Language Adult Children Total Malay Chinese Tamil English
Total
FY 2003
Language Adult Children Total Malay Chinese Tamil English
Total
FY 2004
Language Adult Children Total Malay Chinese Tamil English
Total
47 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | STATISTICAL SUMMARY
Summary of Books Acquired (Volumes)
FY 2002
Language Purchase Gift PPA Total Malay Chinese Tamil English
Total
FY 2003
Language Purchase Gift PPA Total Malay Chinese Tamil English
Total
FY 2004
Language Purchase Gift PPA Total Malay Chinese Tamil English
Total
48 Financial Statements
50 Auditors' Report
51 Balance Sheets
53 Income and Expenditure Statement for the Group
54 Income and Expenditure Statement for the Board
56 Statements of Changes in Capital Account and Accumulated Surplus / (Deficit)
57 Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
58 Notes to the Financial Statements ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Auditors' Report to the National Library Board
We have audited the accompanying financial statements of National Library Board (the "Board") and its subsidiary companies (the "Group") as set out on pages 51 to 80 for the year ended 31 March 2005. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Board's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with Singapore Standards on Auditing. Those Standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by the Board's management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion,
(a) the financial statements are properly drawn up in accordance with the provisions of the National Library Board Act, Chapter 197 (the "Act") and the Singapore Financial Reporting Standards so as to give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Group and of the Board as at 31 March 2005 and the results, changes in capital account and accumulated surplus of the Group and of the Board, and the consolidated cash flows of the Group for the financial year ended on that date; and
(b) the accounting and other records required by the Act to be kept by the Board have been properly kept in accordance with the provisions of the Act.
During the course of our audit, nothing came to our notice that caused us to believe that the receipt, expenditure and investments of monies and the acquisition and disposal of assets by the Board during the year have not been in accordance with the provisions of the Act.
ERNST & YOUNG Certified Public Accountants
Singapore 28 June 2005
| 50 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Balance Sheets as at 31 March 2005
Group Board Note 2004/2005 2003/2004 2004/2005 2003/2004
Capital account Voted equity Accumulated surplus General funds Restricted funds The Library Fund Other project funds
Minority interests
Represented by:
Non-current assets Property, plant and equipment Subsidiary companies
Current assets Receivables Other receivables Tax recoverable Due from subsidiary companies - trade Loan to a subsidiary company Cash and cash equivalents
The accounting policies and explanatory notes on pages 58 to 80 form an integral part of the financial statements.
51 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Balance Sheets as at 31 March 2005
Group Board Note 2004/2005 2003/2004 2004/2005 2003/2004
Current liabilities Trade payables Other payables Defined benefit pension plan Due to a subsidiary company - trade Development grant received in advance Capital donations received in advance Due to a minority shareholder - trade Loan from minority shareholder Deferred capital grant and donations Provision for taxation
Net current assets / liabilities
Non-current liabilities Defined benefit pension plan Deferred capital grant and donations Deferred taxation
Ms Lim Soo Hoon Dr N Varaprasad Chairman Chief Executive
28 June 2005
The accounting policies and explanatory notes on pages 58 to 80 form an integral part of the financial statements.
52 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Income and Expenditure Statement for the Group for the year ended 31 March 2005
Note 2004/2005 2003/2004
Operating income
Operating expenditure Books, periodicals and serials Maintenance and other property expenses Depreciation Rental expense Manpower and staff welfare General and administrative expenses IT consultancy and other professional fees Others
Operating deficit Financial income
Deficit before grants Grants Operating grants Development grants Deferred capital grants and donations amortised and written down
Surplus after grants Tax
Surplus after tax Minority interests
Surplus for the year
Ms Lim Soo Hoon Dr N Varaprasad Chairman Chief Executive
28 June 2005
The accounting policies and explanatory notes on pages 58 to 80 form an integral part of the financial statements.
53 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Income and Expenditure Statement for the Board for the year ended 31 March 2005
General Funds Note 2004/2005 2003/2004
Operating income Professional library services Book fines Consultancy fees Other income Membership fees Donations
Financial income Interest income
Operating expenditure Books, periodicals and serials Maintenance and other property expenses Depreciation Rental expense Manpower and staff welfare General and administrative expenses IT consultancy and other professional fees Others
Deficit before grants
Grants Operating grants Development grants Deferred capital grants amortised
Surplus for the year after grants
The accounting policies and explanatory notes on pages 58 to 80 form an integral part of the financial statements.
I 54 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
Restricted Funds Total 2004/2005 2003/2004 2004/2005 2003/2004
55 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Statements of Changes in Capital Account and Accumulated Surplus / (Deficit) for the year ended 31 March 2005
Other Capital Voted General Restricted The Library project account equity funds funds Fund funds Total
Group Balance at 1 April 2003 Net surplus / (deficit)
Balance at 31 March 2004 Net surplus/ (deficit)
Balance at 31 March 2005
Board Balance at 1 April 2003 Net surplus / (deficit)
Balance at 31 March 2004 Net surplus / (deficit)
Balance at 31 March 2005
The accounting policies and explanatory notes on pages 58 to 80 form an integral part of the financial statements.
56 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS I NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended 31 March 2005
2004/2005 2003/2004
Cash flows from operating activities Deficit before grants Adjustments for: Depreciation of property, plant and equipment Interest income Gain on disposal of property, plant and equipment Impairment loss
Deficit before working capital changes Increase in receivables (Decrease) / increase in payables Project funds utilised
Net cash used in operations
Cash flows from investing activities Additions to property, plant and equipment - net Proceeds from disposal of plant and equipment Interest received Tax paid Acquisition of minority interest's shares
Net cash used in investing activities
Cash flows from financing activities Government grants received Capital donations received Proceeds from issue of shares
Net cash provided by financing activities
Net (decrease) / increase in cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
The accounting policies and explanatory notes on pages 58 to 80 form an integral part of the financial statements.
57 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Notes to the Financial Statements - 31 March 2005
1. General
The National Library Board (the "Board") was established in Singapore under the National Library Act (Chapter 197).
The Board's registered office and principal place of operations is at 100 Victoria Street #14-01, Singapore 188064.
The Board's primary functions are to: (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 need and policies in respect of matters relating to publicly-funded libraries and library information services in Singapore.
2. Summary of significant accounting policies
(a) Basis of preparation The financial statements of National Library Board (the "Board"), which are expressed in Singapore dollars (SGD or $), have been prepared under the historical cost convention and in accordance with the requirements of Singapore Law and the Singapore Financial Reporting Standards.
The accounting policies have been consistently applied by the Board during the financial year and are consistent with those used in the previous financial year.
(b) Basis of consolidation The financial statements of the Group include the financial statements of the subsidiary companies made up to the end of the financial year. The results of subsidiary companies acquired or disposed during the period are included in or excluded from the consolidated profit and loss account from the date of their acquisition or disposal.
The financial statements of the Group are prepared using uniform accounting policies for like transactions and other events in similar circumstances. Intercompany balances and transactions and resulting unrealised profits are eliminated in full on consolidation.
(c) Foreign currency translation Transactions in foreign currencies are measured in Singapore dollars and recorded at exchange rates approximating those ruling at the transaction dates. Foreign currency monetary assets and liabilities are measured using the exchange rates ruling at balance sheet date. Non-monetary assets and liabilities are measured using the exchange rates ruling at the transaction dates. All resultant exchange differences are recognised in the profit and loss account.
58 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Notes to the Financial Statements - 31 March 2005
2. Summary of significant accounting policies (cont'd)
(d) Property, plant and equipment Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and any impairment in value. All items of property, plant and equipment are initially recorded at cost.
The initial cost of property, plant and equipment comprises its purchase price and any directly attributable costs of bringing the asset to its working condition and location for its intended use.
Expenditure for additions, improvements and renewals are capitalised and expenditure for maintenance and repairs are included in the income and expenditure statement. When assets are sold or retired, their cost and accumulated depreciation are removed from the balance sheet and any gain or loss resulting from their disposal is included in the income and expenditure statement.
Depreciation Depreciation is computed on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the assets as follows:
Leasehold premises - 30 to 60 years Building improvements and renovation - 3 to 5 years Furniture, fittings and office equipment - 5 years Motor vehicles - 5 years Computer hardware and software - 3 to 5 years
No depreciation is provided for works-of-art and projects-in-progress.
Depreciation is charged from the month of acquisition and no depreciation is charged in the month of disposal. Fully depreciated assets are retained in the financial statements until they are no longer in use. Property, plant and equipment costing $2,000 and less each are charged to the income and expenditure statement in the year of purchase.
Movable property, plant and equipment belonging to the National Library prior to its conversion to a statutory board were transferred at net book value to the Board when it was established and depreciated over their remaining useful lives.
When the carrying amount of an asset is greater than its estimated recoverable amount, it is written down to its recoverable amount.
(e) Investment in a subsidiary company Investment in a subsidiary company is held on a long term basis and stated at cost on the balance sheet of the Board less impairment loss. Where an indication of impairment exists, the carrying amount of the investment is assessed and written down to its recoverable amount. Impairment losses are taken to the income and expenditure statement in the period in which the loss is determined.
(f) Trade and other receivables Trade receivables and other receivables are recognised and carried at original invoice amount less an allowance for doubtful debts. A provision for doubtful debt is made when collection of the full amount is no longer probable. Bad debts are written-off to the income and expenditure statement as incurred.
59 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Notes to the Financial Statements - 31 March 2005
2. Summary of significant accounting policies (cont'd)
(g) Loan to a subsidiary company Loan to a subsidiary company is carried at original loan amount less an estimate made for doubtful amounts based on an assessment of the recoverability of the loan amounts.
(h) Cash and cash equivalents For the purpose of the cash flow statement, cash and cash equivalents comprise cash on hand and deposits held with banks.
(i) Impairment of assets Assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Whenever the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its recoverable amount, an impairment loss is recognised in the income and expenditure statement.
(j) Trade and other payable Liabilities for trade and other amounts payable are carried at cost.
(k) Provisions Provisions are recognised when the Board has a present obligation (legal or constructive) where as a result of a past event, it is probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation. Provisions are reviewed at each balance sheet date and adjusted to reflect the current best estimate.
(I) Deferred taxation The National Library Board is a tax-exempted institution under the provisions of the Income Tax Act (Chapter 134). The subsidiary companies of the Board are subject to local income tax legislation.
Deferred income tax is provided, using the liability method, on all temporary differences at the balance sheet date between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts for financial reporting purposes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using the tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled based on tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date.
Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for all taxable temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiary companies, associates and interests in joint ventures, except where the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference can be controlled by the Board and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.
Deferred tax assets are recognised for all deductible temporary differences, carry-forward of unused tax losses and unabsorbed capital allowances, to the extent that it is probable that taxable profit will be available against which the deductible temporary differences, carry-forward of unused tax losses and unused tax credits can be utilised.
60 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Notes to the Financial Statements - 31 March 2005
2. Summary of significant accounting policies (cont'd)
(I) Deferred taxation (cont'd)
At each balance sheet date, the Group re-assesses unrecognised deferred tax assets and the carrying amount of deferred tax assets. The Group recognises a previously unrecognised deferred tax asset to the extent that it has become probable that future taxable profit will allow the deferred tax asset to be recovered. The Group conversely reduces the carrying amount of a deferred tax asset to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profit will be available to allow the benefit of part or all of the deferred tax asset to be utilised.
Deferred tax are charged or credited directly to equity if the tax relates to items that are credited or charged, in the same or a different period, directly to equity.
(m) Capital account Government assets transferred in for the establishment of the Board are taken into the capital account.
(n) Grants Government grants and contributions from other organisations utilised for the purchase/construction of depreciable assets are taken to the deferred capital grants account.
Deferred capital grants are recognised in the income and expenditure statement over the period necessary to match the depreciation of the assets purchased with the related grants. Upon disposal of property, plant and equipment, 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 to meet the current year's operating expenses are recognised as income in the financial year in which the operating expenses are incurred.
(o) Capital donations Donations received in advance for future capital expenditure on depreciable assets are included as capital donations received in advance until utilisation. Thereupon it will be taken to deferred capital grants and donations and recognised in the income and expenditure statement over the period necessary to match the depreciation of the related asset.
(p) Funds Funds are accounted on the accrual basis.
Restricted funds Donations and funds received for specific purposes for which there are restrictions on the ability of the Board to apply those funds, are accounted for as Restricted Funds. Separate disclosure of the income and expenditure of these Restricted Funds is included in the Income and Expenditure Statement, while the assets and liabilities of the funds are pooled with those of the general fund.
61 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 1 NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Notes to the Financial Statements - 31 March 2005
2. Summary of significant accounting policies (cont'd)
(p) Funds (cont'd)
Other project funds Other project funds represent the balance of unutilised funds in respect of various projects undertaken specifically on behalf of other agencies. Upon completion of the projects, the unutilised funds are returned to the respective agencies.
The Library Fund The Library Fund is a trust fund established on 27 August 2003. The use of the monies in The Library Fund is restricted to specific purposes specified in the trust deed and requires the approval of the trustees of the Fund. Donations and other amounts received by The Library Fund for the Board's operational programmes are recorded in this account until they are disbursed by the trustees for the Board's usage. Thereupon these are recorded under Restricted Funds or Other Project Funds as appropriate.
(q) Income recognition Income is recognised to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Group and the revenue can be reliably measured. The following specific recognition criteria must also be met before revenue is recognised:
Professional library services 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 charging formula approved by the supervisory ministry.
Income from the rental of library facilities are recognised when services are rendered and charges are based on rates approved by the supervisory ministry.
Book fines Book fines are accounted for when received.
Interest income Interest income from bank account balances are recognised on an accrual basis.
Interest income from The Library Fund are recognised in the income and expenditure statement only when disbursed by The Library Fund for specific programmes.
Other income comprises mainly consultancy services, multi-media sessional charges and amounts from Cluster Development Fund. Fees charged on consultancy services, multi-media sessional charges and amounts from Cluster Development Fund are recognised when the relevant services are rendered.
Donations for operations
Donations disbursed by The Library Fund for the Board's operational programmes are recognised in the period when received by the Board to match the related expenditures.
Previously, donations received by The Library Fund specifically for the Board's operational programmes were recognised when received by The Library Fund. The financial effect of this change is not significant and it has been applied prospectively.
| 62 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Notes to the Financial Statements - 31 March 2005
2. Summary of significant accounting policies (cont'd)
(r) Employee benefits
(i) Pensions and other post employment benefits The Board makes contributions to the Central Provident Fund scheme in Singapore, a defined contribution pension scheme. These contributions are recognised as an expense in the period in which the related service is performed.
(ii) Provision for retirement benefits The Board operates unfunded defined benefit schemes for certain employees under the provisions of the Pension Act (Chapter 225).
Retirement benefits for these employees are assessed using the projected unit credit actuarial valuation method. The cost of providing for retirement benefits is charged to the income and expenditure statement so as to spread the regular cost over the service lives of employees in accordance with the actuarial valuation carried out during the year. The provision for retirement benefit is measured as the present value of the estimated future cash outflows using interest rates of Singapore Government Securities which have terms to maturity approximating the terms of the related liability. Actuarial gains and losses are recognised over the average remaining service lives of pensionable employees. Such benefits are unfunded. The expenses relating to pension are included as part of staff costs.
(iii) Employee leave entitlement Employee entitlements to annual leave are recognised when they accrue to employees. A provision is made for the estimated liability for annual leave and long-service leave as a result of services rendered by employees up to the balance sheet date.
(s) Expenditure on books, periodicals and serials Expenditure on books, periodicals and serials are charged to the income and expenditure statement in the year of purchase.
(t) Leases Operating lease payments are charged to the income and expenditure statement on a straight-line basis over the period of the lease.
When an operating lease is terminated before the lease period has expired, any payment required to be made to the lessor by way of penalty is recognised as an expense in the period in which termination takes place.
63 | ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Notes to the Financial Statements - 31 March 2005
3. Property, plant and equipment
Building Leasehold Motor improvements Furniture premises vehicles and renovation and fittings
Group Cost
At 1 April 2004 Additions Disposal Transfer (from) / to
At 31 March 2005
Accumulated depreciation and impairment
At 1 April 2004 Depreciation charge Disposal Impairment loss Adjustment
At 31 March 2005
Charge for 2003/2004
Net book value
At 31 March 2005 At 31 March 2004
64 Computer Office hardware Projects- equipment and software Works-of-art in-progress Total
The impairment loss represents the write-down of computer software carrying value to its estimated recoverable amount based on its net realisable value determined through an independent valuation. The impairment amount is included in other operating expenditure in the profit and loss account.
65 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Notes to the Financial Statements - 31 March 2005
3. Property, plant and equipment (cont'd)
Building Leasehold Motor improvements Furniture premises vehicles and renovation and fittings
Board Cost
At 1 April 2004 Additions Disposal Transfer (from) / to
At 31 March 2005
Accumulated depreciatio
At 1 April 2004 Disposal Depreciation charge Adjustment
At 31 March 2005
Charge for 2003/2004
Net book value
At 31 March 2005 At 31 March 2004
66 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Notes to the Financial Statements - 31 March 2005
Computer Office hardware Projects- equipment and software Works-of-art in-progress Total
67 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Notes to the Financial Statements - 31 March 2005
4. Subsidiary companies
(a) Due from subsidiary companies-trade Board 2004/2005 2003/2004
Due from subsidiary companies - trade Provision for bad debts
Movements in provision for bad debts are as follows:
At beginning of financial year (Write back) / provision for bad debts
At end of financial year
(b) Loan to a subsidiary company
Loan to a subsidiary company Provision for loan to a subsidiary company
Movements in provision for loan to a subsidiary company are as follows:
At beginning and end of financial year
68 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Notes to the Financial Statements - 31 March 2005
4. Subsidiary companies (cont'd)
(c) Investment in subsidiary companies
The subsidiary companies as at 31 March 2005 are:
Name of subsidiary Cost Percentage share (Country of incorporation 2004/2005 2003/2004 2004/2005 2003/2004 and place of business) Principal activities
Held by National Library Board Cybrarian Holdings Private Investment holding Limited (Singapore)
Held by Cybrarian Holdings Private Limited Cybrarian Ventures Investment holding Private Limited (Singapore)
Held by Cybrarian Ventures Private Limited One Learning Place Provision of computer and Private Limited information technology (Singapore) literacy and internet-related training courses
Elpedia Private Limited Managing and provision of (Singapore) services to a network of borderless libraries and archival system
Library Exchange Facilitating supply chain Private Limited management and marketing (Singapore) services between suppliers and buyers for publications in any media
Subsequent to the balance sheet date, One Learning Place Private Limited has commenced creditors' voluntary liquidation.
(d) Loan from minority shareholder The loan from the minority shareholder of a subsidiary company was unsecured, interest-free and was repaid during the financial year.
69 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Notes to the Financial Statements - 31 March 2005
5. Other receivables Group Board 2004/2005 2003/2004 2004/2005 2003/2004
Other debtors Deposits Prepayments
6. Cash and cash equivalents
Fixed deposits Cash and bank balances
The fixed deposits have been pledged with a bank as security for general banking facilities granted to the Board and mature on varying dates within 24 months from the financial year end. The average interest rate of these deposits ranged from 0.5% to 0.875% (2003/2004: 0.5% to 0.875%) per annum.
Included in cash and cash equivalents is $32,389,094 (2003/2004: $20,048,271) of Restricted Funds received for specific purposes (Note 20).
7. Other payables
Other payables Construction cost payables Accrued operating expenses Security and other deposits
70 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Notes to the Financial Statements - 31 March 2005
8. Provision for retirement benefits
The amounts recognised in the balance sheet are as follows:
Group and Board 2004/2005 2003/2004
Present value of unfunded obligations Unrecognised present value of unfunded obligations Unrecognised transitional liability
Liability in the balance sheet
Represented by: - Current - Non-current
The Board operates unfunded defined retirement benefit plans for certain employees under the provisions of the Pension Act (Chapter 225). Benefits are payable based on the last drawn salaries of the respective employees and the employees' cumulative service period served with the Board at the time of retirement.
Following the adoption of FRS 19 - Employee Benefits, in financial year 2001/2002, the Board recorded a transitional liability of $1,599,054. During the current financial year, the Board performed an actuarial valuation using the methodology set out in FRS 19 to determine the liability of the Board in respect of its defined retirement benefit plans. Based on the actuarial valuation performed, the present value of unfunded obligations exceeded the amount previously provided for by the Board. This excess is recognised over the remaining service lives of pensionable employees in accordance with the provisions of FRS 19.
Movement in the liability recognised in the balance sheet
At beginning of financial year Expense for the year (Note 13) Retirement benefits paid
At end of financial year Unrecognised defined pension benefit obligation
71 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Notes to the Financial Statements - 31 March 2005
8. Provision for retirement benefits (cont'd)
Group and Board 2004/2005 2003/2004
The amounts recognised in the income and expenditure statement are as follows:
Transitional liability recognised Current service cost Interest cost Actuarial loss
Total included in staff costs (Note 13)
The principal assumptions used are as follows:
Discount rate Salary increment rate
9. Capital account
The capital account comprises the net book value of movable property, plant and equipment, imprest floats and specific donations and miscellaneous project account balances held by the former National Library, which were transferred to the Board on its establishment on 1 September 1995.
10. Voted equity
Voted equity pertains to the amount of equity financing received from Ministry of Finance representing 40% of the value of a development project undertaken during the year.
11. Operating income Group Board 2004/2005 2003/2004 2004/2005 2003/2004
Professional library services Book fines Consultancy fees Other income Membership fees Donations
72 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Notes to the Financial Statements - 31 March 2005
12. Financial income Group Board 2004/2005 2003/2004 2004/2005 2003/2004
Interest income
13. Manpower and staff welfare
Board members' allowances Wages and salaries (including executive board member and management staff)
Employer's contribution to Central Provident Fund Defined pension benefit plan (Note 8) Other employee benefits
2004/2005 2003/2004 2004/2005 2003/2004
Number of persons employed at the end of the financial year: Full-time Part-time
73 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 I NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Notes to the Financial Statements - 31 March 2005
14. Operating grants Group Board 2004/2005 2003/2004 2004/2005 2003/2004
Operating grants received during the year Less:
Amount transferred to deferred capital grants and donations (Note 16)
Operating grants utilised for the year
15. Development grants
Development grants received from the Government are used for implementing approved development projects. Except for capital expenditure on community children's libraries, all other capital-related expenditure costing above $2,000 are capitalised as property, plant and equipment. Other project costs and expenditure including books, are charged to the income and expenditure statement in the year of purchase.
At the beginning of financial year Development grants received during the year
Less:
Development grants utilised for the year
Amount transferred to deferred capital grants and donations (Note 16)
At end of financial year
74 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Notes to the Financial Statements - 31 March 2005
15. Development grants (cont'd)
Development grants utilised for the year comprise: Group Board 2004/2005 2003/2004 2004/2005 2003/2004
Books and periodicals Computer and other professional services Salaries Others
16. Deferred capital grants and donations
The balance has been reclassified from equity to liabilities during the year, in accordance to the Finance Circular Minute M4/2005 issued by Ministry of Finance.
Group Board 2004/2005 2003/2004 2004/2005 2003/2004
At the beginning of financial year Receipt of government grant Development grants utilised (Note 15) Capital donations utilised (Note 17) Amount utilised transferred from operating grants (Note 14) Reclassification Write-down of government grant
Less:
Deferred capital grants and donations amortised
At end of financial year
Current liability Non-current liability
At end of financial year
75 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Notes to the Financial Statements - 31 March 2005
17. Capital donations received in advance Group Board 2004/2005 2003/2004 2004/2005 2003/2004
At beginning of financial year Capital donations received during the year Less: Capital donations utilised
18. Taxation Group 2004/2005 2003/2004
Provision for taxation in respect of profit for the year:
- current income tax - deferred taxation Under / (over) provision in respect of prior year
The Board is a tax-exempted institution under the provisions of the Income Tax Act (Chapter 134). The subsidiary companies of the Board are subject to tax under Singapore income tax legislation.
A reconciliation of the tax expense and the product of accounting profit multiplied by the Singapore statutory tax rate for the year ended 31 March is as follows: Group 2004/2005 2003/2004
Excess of income over expenditure before taxation
Income tax expense at statutory tax rate at 20% (2003/2004: 20%)
Adjustments: Tax exemption and rebates Items not deductible for income tax purposes Income not subject to income tax Utilisation of previously unrecognised tax benefits Deferred tax assets not recognised Under / (over) provision in respect of prior years Others
Tax expense
76 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Notes to the Financial Statements - 31 March 2005
18. Taxation (cont'd)
The Group has tax losses of approximately $1,000,000 (2003/2004: $1,100,000) that are available for offset against future taxable profits of the companies in which the losses arose. No deferred tax asset is recognised due to uncertainty of its utilisation. The use of these tax losses is subject to the agreement of the tax authorities and compliance with certain provisions of the Singapore tax legislation.
19. Deferred taxation Group 2004/2005 2003/2004
Deferred tax liabilities
Differences in depreciation and capital allowances
20. Restricted funds
Restricted Funds comprise funds which have been contributed to the Board for specific purposes.
Included in Restricted Funds are capital donations received in advance of $32,387,092 (2003/2004: $20,000,000) held specifically for the development of the new National Library Building at Victoria Street.
Donations received in advance for the specific purpose of funding the new National Library Building are included as capital donations received in advance, classified under current liabilities, until its release for utilisation against the building construction costs. Thereupon, it will be recognised as deferred capital grants and donations and will be recognised in the income and expenditure statement over the period necessary to match the depreciation of the new National Library Building.
Balances in Restricted Funds as at the year end is represented by: Group and Board 2004/2005 2003/2004
Restricted Funds balance
Represented by: Current assets Cash and cash equivalents Current liabilities Accruals Capital donations received in advance
77 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Notes to the Financial Statements - 31 March 2005
21. The Library Fund
The Library Fund is a trust fund established on 27 August 2003.
Donations for operational programmes and interest income received in The Library Fund, which are not disbursed to the Board are residing in The Library Fund in the balance sheet.
Use of the money in The Library Fund is restricted to specific purposes specified in its trust deed and requires the approval of the trustees of the Fund.
The objectives of The Library Fund are to: (a) support library services, facilities, collections and programmes which will promote reading and literacy and encourage learning through the use of libraries and their services; (b) support and promote equal access to reading, literacy and learning in libraries, thereby creating social good for the community, in particular, for special needs groups, the under privileged and under served; and (c) support and promote research, study programmes and scholarships in the fields of reading, literacy, learning, and libraries and information sciences.
The movement and balances in The Library Fund are as follows: Group and Board 2004/2005 2003/2004
Balance brought forward Donations received Interest income Less: Transfer to capital donations received in advance Administrative expenses
Balance as at 31 March
22. Other project funds
Unutilised funds brought forward Funds received Refunds
Utilisation of funds:
Salaries and wages Manpower development and staff welfare Computer services Professional services Other expenses
I 78 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS I NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Notes to the Financial Statements - 31 March 2005
23. Commitments
(a) Lease commitments Future minimum lease payments under operating leases are as follows: Group Board 2004/2005 2003/2004 2004/2005 2003/2004
Not later than one financial year
Later than one financial year but not later than five financial years
More than five financial years
(b) Capital commitments Capital expenditure approved by the Board during the year but not provided for in the financial statements is as follows: Group and Board 2004/2005 2003/2004
Amount approved and contracted Amount approved but not contracted
24. Contingent liabilities Group and Board 2004/2005 2003/2004
Obligations in respect of normal trade guarantees issued by the bank
25. Government grants
Total grants received from the Government and utilised by the Board and the Group since the establishment of the Board was $1,509,471,321 (2003/2004: $1,257,479,729) and $1,509,503,943 (2003/2004: $1,257,512,351) respectively.
79 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
National Library Board and Subsidiary Companies Notes to the Financial Statements - 31 March 2005
25. Government grants (cont'd) Group Board 2004/2005 2003/2004 2004/2005 2003/2004
Capital grants Operating grants Development grants
26. Financial instruments
Credit risk The Group has no significant concentrations of credit risk. Management regularly monitors the recoverability of assets and believes that it has adequately provided for any exposure to potential losses. Surplus cash and fixed deposits are placed with reputed financial institutions.
The maximum exposure to credit risk is represented by the carrying amounts of its financial assets in the balance sheet.
Interest rate risk Interest-bearing financial assets of the Group are mainly cash and cash equivalents, and investments in quoted bonds which are all short-term. Therefore, any future variations in interest rates will not have a material impact on the results of the Group. The Group does not have any interest-bearing financial liabilities.
Foreign currency exchange risk The Group does not have any significant exposure to foreign currency exchange risk.
Liquidity risk The Board has minimal exposure to liquidity risk as its operations are funded by government grants. The Group has ensured sufficient liquidity through the holding of highly liquid assets in the form of cash and cash equivalents at all times to meet its financial obligations.
Fair values of financial assets and liabilities The carrying amounts of financial assets and liabilities reported in the balance sheet approximate the fair values of those assets and liabilities.
27. Comparative figures
Comparative figures for deferred capital grants and donations have been reclassified from equity to liabilities during the year, in accordance to the Finance Circular Minute M4/2005 issued by Ministry of Finance.
To conform with this year's presentation, The Library Fund is separately classified from Restricted Funds.
28. Authorisation of financial statements
The financial statements of the Board for the financial year ended 31 March 2005 were authorised for issue in accordance with a resolution of the management on 28 June 2005.
I 80 Library Listings (as of July 2005)
Regional and Community Libraries
1. Ang Mo Kio Community Library 6. Central Lending Library (CLL) (AMCL) 100 Victoria Street 4300 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 6 #B1-01 National Library Singapore 569842 Singapore 188064 Fax: 6553 5519 Fax: 6332 3642
2. Bedok Community Library (BECL) 7. Cheng San Community Library 21 Bedok North Street 1 (CSCL) Singapore 469659 90 Hougang Avenue 10 Fax: 6244 4917 #03-11 NTUC Hougang Mall Singapore 538766 Fax: 6488 4109 3. Bukit Batok Community Library (BBCL) 1 Bukit Batok Central Link 8. Choa Chu Kang Community #03-01 West Mall Library (CCKCL) Singapore 658713 21 Chua Chu Kang Avenue 4 Fax: 6794 6291 #03-01 Lot 1 Shopper's Mall Singapore 689812 Fax: 6765 8617 4. Bukit Merah Community Library (BMCL) 3779 Jalan Bukit Merah 9. Geylang East Community Library Singapore 159462 (GECL) Fax: 6375 5128 50 Geylang East Avenue 1 Singapore 389777 5. Bukit Panjang Community Library Fax: 6842 8081 (BPCL) 1 Jelebu Road 10. Jurong Regional Library (JRL) #04-16/17 Bukit Panjang Plaza 21 Jurong East Central 1 Singapore 677743 Singapore 609732 Fax: 6767 1030 Fax: 6665 0312
81 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 I NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | LIBRARY LISTINGS
Regional and Community Libraries (cont'd)
11. Jurong West Community Library 18. Sembawang Community Library (JWCL) (SBCL) 1 Jurong West Central 2 30 Sembawang Drive #04-01/04 Jurong Point #03-01 Sun Plaza Singapore 648886 Singapore 757713 Fax: 6793 6906 Fax: 6852 8180
12. Lee Kong Chian Reference Library 19. Sengkang Community Library (LKCRL) (SKCL) 100 Victoria Street 1 Sengkang Square #07-01 National Library #04-26/27 Compass Point Singapore 188064 Singapore 545078 Fax: 6332 3248 Fax: 6315 8022
13. Iibrary@esplanade (EPCL) 20. Tampines Regional Library (TRL) 8 Raffles Avenue 31 Tampines Avenue 7 #03-01 Singapore 039802 Singapore 529620 Fax: 6837 8587 Fax: 6788 8271
14. library@orchard (OCCL) 21. Toa Payoh Community Library 391 Orchard Road (TPCL) #05-22/26 Ngee Ann City 6 Toa Payoh Central Podium Block Tower B Singapore 319191 Singapore 238872 Fax: 6354 5067 Fax: 6838 5190 22. Woodlands Regional Library 15. Marine Parade Community Library (WRL) (MPCL) 900 South Woodlands Drive 278 Marine Parade Road #01-03 Woodlands Civic Centre #01-02 Marine Parade Singapore 730900 Community Building Fax: 6767 3936 Singapore 449282 Fax: 6346 2130 23. Yishun Community Library (YICL) Blk 290 Yishun Street 22 16. Pasir Ris Community Library #03-401 Singapore 760290 (PRCL) Fax: 6756 9290 Pasir Ris Central Street 3 #04-01/06 White Sands Singapore 518457 Fax: 6585 5314
17. Queenstown Community Library (QUCL) 53 Margaret Drive Singapore 149297 Fax: 6471 9973
82 LIBRARY LISTINGS | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
Community Children's Libraries
Bishan East CCL Kampong Ubi CCL Blk 115 Bishan Street 12 Blk 341 Ubi Avenue 1 #01-70 Singapore 570115 #01-915 Singapore 400341 Fax: 6356 3937 Fax: 6745 3578
Bishan-Toa Payoh North CCL Moulmein CCL Blk 238 Bishan Street 22 Blk 52 Kent Road #01-232 Singapore 570238 #01-23 Singapore 210052 Fax: 6553 1293 Fax: 6299 4356
Braddell Heights CCL Mountbatten CCL Blk 235 Serangoon Avenue 3 c/o Schoolhouse By The Bay #01-08 Singapore 550235 Katong Community Centre Fax: 6284 2415 51 Kampong Arang Road Singapore 438178 Fax: 6345 9798 Bukit Timah CCL Blk 13 Toh Yi Drive #01-07 Singapore 590013 Nee Soon East CCL Fax: 6467 3346 Blk 356 Yishun Ring Road #01-1828 Singapore 760356 Fax: 6753 1870 Changi-Simei CCL Blk 120 Simei Street 1 #01-476 Singapore 520120 Pasir Ris East CCL Fax: 6426 9395 Blk 253 Pasir Ris Street 21 #01-233 Singapore 510253 Fax: 6581 1424 Clementi CCL Blk 322 Clementi Avenue 5 #01-235 Singapore 120322 Punggol South CCL Fax: 6776 1887 Blk 124 Rivervale Drive #01-181 Singapore 540124 Fax: 6489 7156 Jalan Kayu CCL Blk 520 Serangoon North Ave 4 #01-178 Singapore 550520 Fax: 6481 7639
83 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | LIBRARY LISTINGS
Community Children's Libraries (cont'd)
Tampines-Changkat CCL Blk 316 Tampines Street 33 #01-186 Singapore 520316 Fax: 6260 7009
Tampines West CCL Blk 938 Tampines Avenue 5 #01-155 Singapore 520938 Fax: 6782 6370
Toa Payoh East CCL Blk 231 Toa Payoh Lorong 8 #01-192 Singapore 310231 Fax: 6356 3120
Yew Tee CCL Blk 787 Choa Chu Kang North 6 #01-206 Singapore 680787 Fax: 6762 3269
Yuhua CCL Blk 229 Jurong East Street 21 #01-701 Singapore 600229 Fax: 6566 4310
84 Acknowledgements
The National Library Board would like to acknowledge the following individuals and organisations for their contributions and strong support which had made possible our progress for the financial year ending March 2005.
Sponsors and Donors Asian Children's Festival • Anglo Chinese Junior College • Centre for Fathering • Bintan Resort Corporation • Drama Plus Arts • Lee Foundation • Family Matters! Singapore • Mr Chua Swan • Fei Yue Community Services • Mr Yeo Oi Sang • Health Promotion Board • National Library of China • I Theatre • National Library of Indonesia • Julia Gabriel Speech • Prof Phua Kok Khoo and Drama Centre • Shanghai Library • Ministry of Education • The late Mr Murugu Seenivasan • National Book Development Council of Singapore • The late Mr Naa Govindasamy • National Heritage Board • The late Mr Wong Lup Tong • Players Theatre • Press Foundation of Singapore Aspiration Pathfinder • Ritz-Carlton Millenia Singapore • Asiapac Books Private Limited • Singapore Children's Society • Cafe Galilee • Singapore Sports Council • Creative Community Singapore of MICA Asian Children's Festival • Mr Alvin Lee, Beautiful Minds - Great Singapore Stories • Mr Henry Toi, Buzan Centre Asia • Asiapac Books Private Limited kidsREAD • Flame of the Forest • Fraser and Neave Limited • American Embassy of Singapore • National Book Development • Ministry of Community Council of Singapore Development, Youth and Sports • Popular Book Co. Private Limited • MPH • Reader's Digest • Singapore Totalisator Board • SMRT Corporation Limited • Society for Reading and Literacy • West Mall
85 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Speak Good English National Library Board Online Movement Repository of Artistic Works • Asia Storytelling Network • Mr Alvin Pang • British Council • Ms Eleanor Wong • CHIJ St Nicholas • Ms Madeleine Lee • City Cab Private Limited • Institute of Technical Education Publishing and Research • Julia Gabriel Speech and Services' Knowledge Drama Centre Seminar for Print and • MediaCorp NewsRadio 93.8FM Publishing Industry • Mr Steve Stine • Mr Ian Shelley, • Ms Virginia Lim Intrare Consulting • Ms Wendy Wand • Mr William Claxton, • SAF Music and Drama Company Knowledge Platform • SAMEO RELC and Artistic Xpressions • Ms Lim Li Kok, • Society for Reading and Literacy National Book Development • SPH MediaWorks Council of Singapore, Asiapac Private Limited • Teater Ekamatra • Ms Phyllis Bova Spies, • The Arts House at Old Parliament Collection Management • TheatreWorks Services, OCLC • Wall Street Institute • Ms Tang Kwai Leng, • West Mall ST Logitrack
Speak Mandarin Campaign • Chapter One Learning Centre • Chou Pi Jiang • Eduplus Language Centre • Han Language Centre • Lexmark • Mdm Wan Ching Sang • Mr Allan Wu • Mr Gary Goh • Mr Tan Swie Hian • Ms Joi Chua • Ms Sharon Au • Ms Zheng Roujuan • Nokia • NTUC Centre • NUS Chinese Society • Popular Book Store • Puppet Castle • Singapore Federation of Chinese Clans Association • SingTel • Soka Association • Thumbs Up • Trilitere Chinese Language Consultants
86 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ANNUAL REPORT 2004 / 2005
Indian Library Services Advisory Panel Library 2010 Review Committee Members
Mr S Vivakanandan Chairman Dr N Varaprasad Project Sponsor Mr D Azhagiya Pandiyan Member Ms Lim Soo Hoon Member Mr V M Karmegam Member Mr Ahmad Khalis Bin Abdul Ghani Member Dr Seetha Lakshmi Member Mr Chan Heng Kee Member Mr T Poopathey Member Dr Christopher Chia Member Dr S P Thinnappan Member Mr Heng Chee How Member Mr T Sundraraj Member Mr Lawrence Leow Member Mr Pon Sundararaju Member Ms Ong Sor Fern Member Mr Masilamani Anbalagan Member Mrs Phoon Chew Ping Member Mr V Kalaiselvan Member Dr Quah Sy Ren Member Mr S Vivakanandan Member Prof Schubert Foo Member Assoc Prof Shaharuddin Bin Maaruf Malay Library Services Advisory Panel Member Assoc Prof Tan Tai Yong Member Assoc Prof Shaharuddin Bin Maaruf Chairman Mr Tan Teck Huat Member Mr Isa Kamari Member Mr Loh Chee Meng Secretary Mr Iskander Mydin Member Mr Johnson Paul Secretary Mr Mohd Noh Daipi Member Mr Mohd Raman Daud Member Mr Sheikh Mustafa Member Zheng He Exhibition Organising Committee Mdm Zakiah Halim Member Assoc Prof Lee Cheuk Yin Chairman Prof Ng Chin Keong Member Mr Chang Chee Pey Chinese Library Services Advisory Panel Member Mr Ng Siong Tee Member Prof Eddie C Y Kuo Chairman Dr Geoffrey Philip Wade Member Dr Quah Sy Ren Vice-Chairman Mr Lim Guan Hock Member Prof Ng Chin Keong Member Mr Chung Chee Kit Member Assoc Prof Lee Cheuk Yin Member Prof Leo Suryadinata Member Dr Phua Kok Khoo Member Speak Good English Movement Committee Mr Chua Chim Kang Member (2004 - 2006) Ms Lim Li Kok Member Mr Baey Yam Keng Member Mr David Wong Ex-Chairman Mr Yue Lip Sin Member (2002 - Apr 2005) Prof Koh Tai Ann Assoc Prof Chan Chiu Ming Member Chairman (May 2005) Ms Jennifer Yin Mr Woo Keng Choong Member Head Secretariat Ms Sandra Buenaventura Mr Yeng Pway Ngon Member Member Ms Jessie Tan Mr Ng How Wee Member Member Dr Lionel Wee Mr Danny Yeo Chin Wei Member Member Ms Gerardine Tan Member Mrs Tay Sor Har Member Dr Yim-Teo Tien Hua Member Ms Tuminah Sapawi Member Ms Lau Chuen Wei Member
87 ANNUAL REPORT 2004/2005 | NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD SINGAPORE | ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Promote Mandarin Council (2004 - 2006)
Prof Wee Chow Hou Chairman Mr Kenneth Tan Member Mr Liak Teng Lit Member Mr Seow Choke Meng Member Prof Ng Chin Keong Member Mr Roger Low Tiate Eng Member Col Bernard Toh Hoon Meng Member Ms Chua Lee Hoong Member
Advisory Friends of the Library (FOL) for Older Persons
Mr Phua Kok Tee Chairman Mrs Hedwig Anuar Member Mr Dennis Khoo Member Mrs Mary Ng Member Mrs V Perumbulavil Member Mrs Teresa Chew-Sim Member Mr Sum Keok Wai Member Mr Dexter Tai Member Mr David Tan Member Mrs Patricia Maria Tan Member Ms Verlencia Tan Member Mr Teo Cheak Han Member Ms Wang Jing Member
88 National Library Board Annual Report/National Library Board - Apr. 2004/Mar.2005 Singapore NLB2005.v.cil.ill 210mm x 297mm ISSN 0217-1546 I.Singapore.National Library Board - Periodicals.I.Title 027.05957
This report covers 12 months ending March 2005 All rights reserved. National Library Board 2005. www.nlb.gov.sg
National Library Board Singapore 100 Victoria Street #14-01 Singapore 188064 T+65 6332 3133 F+65 6332 3332