News

Kiosks on the rise as library alternative/adjunct

November 3, 2010

Another library is considering using a kiosk system for material check-in and check-out as state budgets face deficits. The library in Newport, Wisc., is looking at its options as the state legislature works to close a pending $5.8 billion budget gap, according to the South Washington County Bulletin in Cottage Grove, Wisc.

County library director Patricia Conley says the library won't be closed, but hours will be reduced and library kiosks could be brought in where customers can order, pick up and return books. In nearby Hugo, the Library Express offers a kiosk inside City Hall available to patrons during weekday business hours. The Library Express cost the county about $44,000.

There is a growing trend for libraries to install kiosks to allow patrons to conduct self-check-in and checkout, so a reduced library staff can serve visitors' information needs (See "Libraries get a read on self-serve check in/check-out kiosks," Oct. 18).