The first book lending machine in Baltics
10.07.2019
Klaipėda county public I. Simonaitytė library is the first in Lithuania to introduce a new service – an automated book lending machine. From now on librarians with a reader‘s card will be able to pick up a book not only in the library but also in the shopping and entertainment center „Akropolis“.
The libraries’ activities are to reduce social and information exclusion, therefore we wanted to create a new and innovative library service that would increase the accessibility of culture for various user groups not only in the library but also outside it. With this service, we strive to ensure cultural diversity by using creative products and cultural services, as well as having an opportunity to promote ongoing projects, events, library services and interest in culture, - said Kristina Kundrotienė, deputy director of Klaipėda County Public I. Simonaitytė Library.
A book lending machine is the first in the Baltic States and also is a good example how a customer and supplier can create a useful and innovative solution for the public taking into consideration the needs and wishes of I. Simonaitytė library the book lending machine was adapted and integrated with the LMS – LIBIS system used in Lithuania.
During this project, an automated book issuing system was created which identifies Lithuanian readers’ card, communicates with the LIBIS system used by the library and carries out the issue of books. Book identification is done using RFID UHF technology which ensures fast and automatic identification of books.
All you need to do is take the library’s reader’s card, scan the barcode and choose the number of the book you want. A check is issued from the machine which confirms the pickup of the book. The book should be returned within 30 days to the library.
Creating such service is a unique opportunity to reach people of all ages and social backgrounds who don’t have time to go to the library or want to have a large range of services in one place. Cultural activities and innovative solutions reduce the social and cultural exclusion between people of different ages and social backgrounds, - said K. Kundrotienė.
For the project implementation, the library chose Hansab because of its experience in implementing automated library self-service and security systems using RFID technology.