Upgrades at Library will Affect Library Patrons

This blog doesn't usually focus on news stories as much as events and things to do in the community, but sometimes like today, it affects what many us might be doing come May 1-5, 2014.  That is because the library will be closed those four days so that they can install new ATM like Kiosks to speed up checkouts.

According to the Topeka Shawnee County Public Library website, there are three major improvements this change will bring about.

Speed. Check-out is much more streamlined
Convenience. Check-out kiosks located where you are in the building
Privacy. A more discreet way of checking out

Whether it really will, remains to be seen. However, some people like the human interaction over the speed of an emotionless computer. We did call the library to find out if this change will also mean the loss of some jobs. The individual on the other end of the line said that it would not. That for the first few months that staff would be available to help patrons with the new kiosks. After that the staff not needed at the desk would help in reference, where they have been wanting to get out into the community more and this will allow them to do that.
The website also stated,

The library is adopting Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags for inventory and security. RFID is used worldwide for a variety of purposes including employee ID badges and in K-Tags used by Turnpike motorists. With RFID tags, it’s possible to check out multiple items all at once.

Library cards will not change, but the new system will require a PIN to check out. This is a great opportunity to update your PIN. Change your PIN online in your account or call the library at 785-580-4400 and we can help you.

The entire library staff will be involved in converting 450,000+ items. The library will get a head start by closing the music CDs and the DVD Dispenser on April 30.

The library says many of it's other services will not be affected by the changes in the library. Bookmobiles will run their regular schedules. The Alice C. Sabatini Gallery, will be open including for First Friday on May 2nd. In addition the Millennium Café and Chandler Booktique will be open.