David W. Shepherd, left, president of the Holmberg Foundation, watches a demonstration of the new self check out machine at Prendergast Library by Courtney Kilmer and Gregg Rhodes, members of the new Teen Advisory Council, and Librarian Kristie Bemus, right.
The library has installed a self check out machine to offer borrowers the option of checking out their own materials at the circulation desk.
Support from the Holmberg Foundation enabled the library to purchase a countertop CheckEze 201 Patron Self Checkout System, which offers verbal instructions and automatic start-up and shut-down. It includes Microsoft XP Pro software, a small computer, touch screen monitor, receipt printer, and a scanner.
Since late January, patrons have used it to check out more than 4,500 items and praised it for offering more privacy, less standing in line, and the opportunity to try new technology.
Borrowers can use the machine to check out books, magazines, books on CD, and VHS tapes, but staff members continue to check out items such as DVDs that are locked in cases. Patrons are not able to use it for checking materials in.
One target audience for self check was the library’s more than 5,000 cardholders under the age of 18. The Holmberg Foundation also supported the purchase of more than 500 new teen books, including many award winners.
For more information about the Self Checkout System, contact the library at 716-484-7135 ext. 252.
By PDGACO payday loans