NEW SELF SERVICE TECHNOLOGY TO SPEED UP LIBRARY QUEUES (York Liberal Democrats)

York Liberal Democrats <info@yorklibdems.org.uk>

NEW SELF SERVICE TECHNOLOGY TO SPEED UP LIBRARY QUEUES

June 1, 2009 12:00 AM

New Liberal Democrat Executive Member for Leisure, Culture and Social Inclusion, Councillor Nigel Ayre will today open tenders for an innovative new self service system for the city's two main libraries.

The new technology will allow visitors to York Central Library and the Explore Acomb Library Learning Centre to check items in and out at self service terminals, as well as reserving items and paying any fines or charges.

The service will also help library staff manage library stock more effectively.

Councillor Ayre said the new technology will free up staff to carry out other duties. He said, "The self service terminals will allow library staff to spend more time away from the counters, allowing them to work more closely with the public - helping them choose books, working with children and supporting learning."

"The staff in York's libraries have a wealth of knowledge that they can share with the public. I am glad that this technology will allow them more freedom to share their expertise with people."

Councillor Ayre added, "I am looking forward to working closely with our libraries team as we work to encourage even more people to visit to see what their local library has to offer."

The new technology will also allow staff to be more efficiently deployed, meaning library opening times can be extended.

The self service terminals will for part of a major revamp of York Central Library which will see it transformed into an Explore Centre, following on from the success of the refurbishments of Acomb Library and New Earswick Library.