2 Jul 2018

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Christchurch City Libraries has today launched a special online survey for local schools to help give names to Tūranga’s intergalactic heroes, the Bookbots.

During the month of July, local primary and intermediate students can vote on their favourite names for the digital characters and go in the draw to win prizes, including a real-life interactive robot for their school, with training provided by PBTech, and a class workshop with Imagination Station. Bluetooth speakers from Spark and giant Bookbot wall decals are also up for grabs.

Head of Libraries and Information Carolyn Robertson says the campaign is a chance for local schools to learn more about Tūranga and get involved in the lead-up to its opening.

“Schools in Christchurch have been without a permanent central library for some time now, so we want them to start getting excited about Tūranga’s opening and have their say about how we should name each of the Bookbots.”

The Bookbots are an immersive augmented-reality experience aimed at children. Using the cameras on smart devices such as a phones and tablets, the five Bookbots will be discoverable across the five different floors of Tūranga: He Hononga/Connection, Hapori/Community, Tuakiri/Identity, Tūhuratanga/Discovery, and Auahatanga/Creativity.

Children can use their devices to interact with each character and solve challenges, gradually unlocking the knowledge needed to get the Bookbots home again. But before the intergalactic visitors can even arrive, they need a helping hand, says Ms Robertson.

“They’re en route from their home planet, Biblio, as we speak, to help put the finishing touches on Tūranga. The problem is they need Earth names before they arrive, so that’s where schools can help by voting online.”

Ms Robertson says the Bookbots will be a fun way for children to learn while exploring the library and discovering its possibilities.

“It’s a virtual ‘treasure hunt’ that lets kids and families have fun while they find their way around the library and discover all of the incredible things on offer. We can’t wait to show everyone.”

Voting is open to local primary and intermediate students until 31 July 2018 (limited to one entry per student).

Visit ccc.govt.nz/bookbots