Speaking at the opening of the Central Public Library on Jan 12, Minister for Communications and Information Josephine Teo said libraries were repositories of knowledge and had a special place in society.

“Libraries can evolve and remain hubs of knowledge and discovery… for generations. In today’s world, dominated by digital platforms and proliferation of content, libraries must find new ways to empower people to learn and connect,” she said.

This was why the National Library Board (NLB) launched the Libraries and Archives Blueprint 2025 in October 2021 to create meaningful reading, learning and discovery experiences in the library for all people – for today and tomorrow.

“Today, we are taking the next step in our journey of library transformation. The Central Public Library has been refreshed with many new features. There is nothing better than experiencing these new features in the revamped library for yourself,” added Mrs Teo.

One of the key features of the Central Public Library, the Children’s Biodiversity Library aims to let children get up close with marine life through a plethora of marine and coral specimens and books on marine biodiversity. Families can learn about sustainability and the environment together.

“We must also educate our people to help build a sustainable future,” Mrs Teo said, highlighting the library’s focus on sustainability.

This learning space, jointly created with the S.E.A. Aquarium at Resorts World Sentosa, is the first marine biodiversity-themed learning space for children at a public library in Singapore. It is located in the basement of the National Library building in Victoria Street.