Smart Work 2027: Vanamo Online Library – Revamping the online library’s English content

The number of international residents in Hämeenlinna is constantly growing, which created a need to provide information about the library and its services in English within the Vanamo Online Library. Originally, the English version of the online library was very limited, containing mainly pages related to membership, library opening hours, and contact information. We saw a need to add more information to the English site to provide a more equitable service.

Content pages of the online library have been translated, and we have aimed to provide English translations for relevant news and events concerning customers. In addition, the English site has been given the same structure as the Finnish one to ensure smooth parallel use. Membership-related forms have been translated into English and linked to the English side of the online library to make them easier to find.

Customers have found the English material and are able to utilize the site’s content when using the library. Staff can provide more comprehensive information to customers during service interactions and guide them to find the necessary information themselves in the online library. The online library content is also utilized during group visits.

The translation of content pages continues. In addition, the work to translate materials in the library’s physical premises has begun and is ongoing. We are constantly considering what information is relevant to provide to international residents and are adapting the online library content as needed. In the future, we also want to provide more comprehensive collection recommendations. The work continues using human intelligence, as utilizing AI in the online library is not technically possible.

Developers

Jaana Käki, Leading Information Specialist, Hämeenlinna Main Library
Suvi Oksanen, Librarian, Hämeenlinna Main Library
Jenni Penttinen, Library Assistant, Hämeenlinna Main Library