Libraries are not unused to automation. An integrated library system (ILS) or unified library management system (ULMS) are examples of automation where various library services like interlibrary loan, holds, course reserves, acquisitions, cataloging, normalization rules, discovery interface, etc. are worked on. Some libraries may have automated returns systems or self-checkout machines with POS payment integration. A 24/7 chat with a librarian? That is also automation. Automation is used to create efficiencies that allow library workers to have more time to do things that a computer cannot do.

I was inspired by Helsinki’s central public library Oodi. Oodi was built with customized robotic systems. They have a system for their returns. They have autonomous robot carts that deliver materials from the returns area up to shelving areas and a robot that roams about and gives directional assistance.  There are many types of robots that are being used in customer service industries and organizations that are providing assistance to human staff by acting as a frontline kiosk system, making deliveries, working in hermetically sealed storage spaces, aiding in supply chain logistics, and so much more. For this inspiration report, I would like to introduce robots to the University Library!