Starting today, the Andora Library joins the Liguria Regional Network of the National Library Service (SBN). This marks the beginning of a significant digitization project, integrating all available titles into the Liguria Libraries Catalog (CBL). Thus, the library’s shelves extend beyond their physical location, accessible throughout Italy. Andora residents will also have the chance to borrow books from other libraries participating in the service.
According to Alexandra Allegri, the Andora Library assessore, “an innovation that initiates a comprehensive review and reorganization of Andora’s literary collection, enriched in recent years thanks to a substantial grant from the Ministry of Culture.” Under the guidance of librarian Dr. Patrizia Gallo, the cataloging work is underway, with part of the fiction section already available online. The catalog is updated daily, and each new entry becomes immediately visible. The goal is to make the library more modern and accessible, with the reorganization of book placements and the creation of new sections.
In the future, a computer will be available at the library to browse the national catalog. Currently, Andora users can access the catalog from home. Book loans will be managed through a new portal, requiring a new registration at the Largo Milano Library counter.
Allegri adds, “This will allow users to independently handle consultation and loan requests from home, visiting the library only when the volume is ready for pickup.” Users will also be able to access books not present in the Andora catalog, whether new releases or texts for specific research. However, maintaining direct contact with library staff will remain crucial for advice and research.