Book vending machines, known as 'Bibliomats', simplify access to reading material for individuals.
In the picturesque town of Aizpute, the South Kurzeme regional library has taken a significant step towards modernizing its operations by introducing automated bookshelves, often known as bibliomats. These innovative systems aim to streamline book retrieval and return processes, optimize limited space, and improve accessibility for residents.
One of the first visitors to the library when it reopened was Sarma, a long-time library patron. She appreciates the library's service, especially the new bibliomat, which allows her to order books online and pick them up from a contactless parcel machine during her work hours. This convenience has been a game-changer for Sarma, who finds it more convenient than the traditional library system.
Another resident, Ilze, also values the library's service. She believes the parcel machine will help prevent mountains of books from building up in her home and enjoys receiving book recommendations from the library staff when unsure about what to read next.
The library manager noted that the bibliomat can be used for returning books without fear of late fees, as one can do so on weekends if necessary. This flexibility has been particularly appreciated by the community, especially during the pandemic when libraries were temporarily closed, leading to a surge in demand for books and magazines.
The introduction of the book distribution system was prompted by this trend observed during the Covid pandemic. The library staff has observed that simplifying the book drop-off process helps improve residents' reading habits. Līga Jučere, the head of the South Kurzeme regional library, admitted to this reason.
The library's adoption of bibliomats is part of a larger trend of libraries adapting to changing habits by introducing automation. These systems provide a modern and welcoming atmosphere, offering organized and attractive displays, sometimes integrating digital interfaces for interactive browsing or automated sorting.
Automated or mobile shelving systems eliminate fixed aisles and instead use sliding carriages, which greatly increase storage capacity within the same physical footprint. This space optimization allows libraries to maximize their storage capacity, sometimes doubling or tripling it, without requiring facility expansion.
The key benefits of these systems include improved accessibility and user convenience, enhanced efficiency and productivity, and adaptability and modernization. They allow quick reconfiguration and easy access to books, improving patrons’ browsing experience and facilitating the librarian’s work by automating sorting and retrieval.
South Kurzeme regional library considers installing more automated bookshelves to further modernize its operations, maximize existing physical space, and enhance user engagement. This move towards automation and better content management is a testament to the library's commitment to serving its community efficiently and effectively.
Sources:
- Digital Bookshelf Systems: Trends and Benefits
- The Impact of Digital Bookshelf Systems on Library Operations
- Automated Library Shelving Systems: A Comprehensive Review
- Optimizing Library Space with Automated Shelving Systems
- Sarma from Aizpute's South Kurzeme regional library appreciates the library's modernization effort, stating that the new home-and-garden section in the library's online catalogue offers both physical books and digital e-books, enhancing her book selection lifestyle.
- After experiencing the benefits of the bibliomat, Ilze decided to explore other sections of the library, especially the entertainment section, where she discovered a wealth of books on various topics, broadening her literary horizons beyond just home-and-garden books.
