NEW TECHNOLOGY TO REVOLUTIONISE SERVICE AT ACOMB EXPLORE CENTRE (York Liberal Democrats)

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

NEW TECHNOLOGY TO REVOLUTIONISE SERVICE AT ACOMB EXPLORE CENTRE

August 13, 2009 12:00 AM

Acomb's popular Explore Centre is set for a further transformation later this month when new self service machines are installed in the library.

The machines will enable customers to scan, take out, and return their own books, freeing up library staff to help visitors choose books, access learning material or use the free-access computers.

To prepare for the new technology all 20,000 books will be electronically tagged to allow them to work with the new system. The tags will allow library staff to manage library stock more effectively and ensure books are circulated between the city's libraries.

Liberal Democrat Executive Member for Leisure, Culture and Social Inclusion, Councillor Nigel Ayre said the innovative technology would improve the service people received from the library.

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."

"Staff will be able to provide people with more help than ever before, meaning people can get even more from the library.

Following their installation at Acomb Explore it is hoped that the self service terminals will be rolled out to other libraries in the city, allowing staff to work more effectively and improving stock management across the network.

The new machines will be ready to use on the 1st of September.