In order to encourage reading and provide convenient library services to the public, the Macao Public Library under the Cultural Affairs Bureau has launched a 24-hour Self-service Book Return System and a reservation service for books on shelf.

The 24-hour Self-service Book Return System was introduced in the Macao Central Library and in the Taipa Library on 11 August. It is now also available at the Wong Ieng Kuan Library in Areia Preta Urban Park, Wong Ieng Kuan Children's Library in Areia Preta Urban Park, Wong Ieng Kuan Library in Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Municipal Park, Library in Ho Yin Garden and S. Lourenço Library (the availability of some Book Returns is subject to the opening hours of the parks and markets where the libraries are located). The Book Return System is user-friendly and supports receipt printing.

Furthermore, the Macao Public Library has expanded its reservation service of books on loan to books on shelf since August. Residents may reserve books held on shelf through the Libraries’ website, by telephone or in person at any of the libraries, and collect the books at a selected library. After completing the reservation, residents will receive a SMS confirmation from the library and may carry on with the borrowing procedure at the service counter of the selected library within the appointed period.

The Macao Public Library hopes the new diversified services will allow the residents an easier access to library resources, so as to promote reading close by all the public.