Gale, part of Cengage Learning and a publisher of research and reference resources for libraries, schools and businesses, has announced Gale Gateways, an innovative programme for public libraries. Designed to represent the unique way in which a community interacts with its public library, Gale Gateways bring together thematic products and services to provide an organised approach to help patrons find and use information.
Web support includes the customisable Gateway web portal tool and search engine optimisation. The Gateway portals can be linked from the library's main website, are easy to configure and can link directly to any library resource - whether it be a Gale resource or not. Customisation is a key feature of the portal tool, from content to logos, colours and text, librarians have full control of the Gateway look. Customers can give their Gateways any name, allowing them to tap into their current library branding if they choose, along with localising their site with relevant community information.
Customised marketing materials, along with a new type of training/programming from Gale's Customer Education Specialists, will extend the Gateway brand deep within a library community. Library staff training, direct to the public training, as well as templates and tools, will help staff create their own relevant community workshops around Gateway themes.
The themes of the first Gateways to be released include Business; Jobs & Career; Health & Wellness; Homework Help; and Home, Hobbies & Entertainment. Gale is working closely with customers to further explore all the possibilities within these first Gateways, as well as other themes to come. Feedback from current customers has been positive.
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