Image: https://www.internationallibraryservices.com/library_automation_technology/lending-library-kiosk/
70% of respondents responded positively to libraries removing print books and stacks from public libraries to make space for “tech centers, reading rooms, meeting rooms and cultural events” whereas 64% of respondents agreed that libraries should have “more comfortable spaces for reading, working, and relaxing” (Raine, 2016). The Lending Library 6 kiosk can help libraries achieve this recommendation because it offers storage of up to 500 items (Lending Library Kiosk, n.d.). It is ideal for extending the library’s reach and also freeing up space at the library for new spaces or investing in more comfortable spaces.
The company claims to be more affordable when compared to other similar kiosks. It can help take the library to its potential users by reaching people at grocery stores, public transit, recreation centers, and more. It brings the library to potential users instead of waiting for them to find the library. Based on a few reviews by library staff, it is very popular in their community. It is exciting and encourages users to keep coming back. A few libraries in Contra Costa County have had a similar item known as Library-a-go-go since at least 2011 (Levein, 2011). It may be a worthy investment to boost library engagement from groups who cannot regularly frequent it.
References
Lending Library Kiosk. International Library Services. (n.d.). https://www.internationallibraryservices.com/library_automation_technology/lending-library-kiosk/
Levein, R. E. (2011, June). Confronting the future: Strategic visions for the 21st-century public library [ Policy brief 4]. American Library Association.
Raine, L. (2016). Puzzles librarians need to solve.