ROPES Crossing Sales and Information Centre is reducing greenhouse gas emissions by up to 70 per cent as a four-star green star office. The two-storey office was built with high-performance glazing, facade shading, natural ventilation and energy efficient lighting, while a roof top photovoltaic system generates electricity. Bike racks, showers and lockers promote the environmental and health benefits of cycling to staff.

Debt relief

THE launch of a debt relief kit will be a big help families who are under financial stress. This Federal Government initiative has useful information about services to help people manage their debt. The kit covers a broad range of topics, including managing debt, getting free advice, alternatives to high cost credit, legal assistance, dispute resolution and multilingual services. The kit is free. To get one, call Prospect MP Chris Bowen's office on 97264100.

Volunteer awards

PENRITH Council wants not-for-profit groups to nominate their most dedicated workers for the NSW Volunteer of the Year awards. The awards honour the contribution the state's 1.4 million volunteers make to local communities. Entries will be judged regionally. The winners will progress to the NSW judging and awards ceremony on December 5. Entries close September 30. Details: www.volunteering.com.au.

How to self-issue library books

A NEW radio frequency identification customer service technology system has been launched at the Max Webber Library in Blacktown. Borrowers no longer have to use the customer service desk. Instead, they can lend library items to themselves via this innovative technology to be used at the library's self-issue work stations as well as at automated book returns sorter and resource security system.