Vending Book Machine

Vending technology has seen more dramatic growth in the retail sector in 24/7 mini bookstores and DVD rental outlets. Changing library customer expectations and lifestyles, public libraries’ desire to explore new outreach possibilities and potential reductions in vending machine costs may mean that the potential service benefits of vending machines may outweigh the initial high establishment cost. In Explore World Library has a Vending book Machine that provision 24/7 access to collections at minimal staffing costs Pressure on opening hours due to staffing costs and the time poverty of many library users and non-users makes this an attractive option. It is a particularly valuable service extension when patrons can collect items reserved online so that their access to library collections is no longer restricted by library opening hours. A collection is stored out of sight with access to the collection via a touch screen catalogue. Searches can be narrowed to sub collections, like audio visual materials or children’s books. Access requires a library card and retrieval of an item requires verification with the card to provide security in the event of a transaction being interrupted. The robotic delivery of items is reversible permitting returns as well. Lending library capacity of 250 – 500 items depending on the collection mix, integrated with the library management system. There are optional expansion bays for additional storage and large LCD screens for digital signage and advertising.