Aysén Regional Library

Aysén Regional Library.

Although it did not open as a public lending library until 1978, the Aysén Regional Library traces its roots back to 1952 when the Coyhaique Literary Academy was founded. Its members - local doctors, teachers and other professionals with a taste for reading - donated their books to form a private library that later became the basis for the creation of a public library.  Initially, the public library occupied a number of different premises until, in view of its need for room to grow, it moved to its current premises, with an area of 1,240 square meters, in 2008. 

Services

The services offered by the Aysén Regional Library include: 

• Reading rooms. Containing some 40,000 books, the Library is divided into seven sections: Reference and General, Literature, Regional (including books about the Aysén Region and written by its inhabitants), Children, Young People, Press and Inclusive (with large-print and Braille books and audiobooks). 
• IT services. Under the national BiblioRedes computer-access program, the Library has an IT laboratory, equipped with 15 computers. As well as Internet access, it offers a regular program of digital literacy courses. The Library is also equipped with Wi-Fi. 
• Guided visits. The Library has a program of guided visits for schoolchildren and other organized groups.
• Educational and cultural activities. The Library offers courses and workshops, related principally to the arts and handicrafts, as well as cultural events such as talks, conferences and films in its 100-seat auditorium.