Self-Checkout and Self-Service
Library Systems

Library Equipment That Perfectly Fits Your Needs

With the flexibility to design the equipment layout and select a ‘menu of services’ for the self-service kiosk, you can decide which staff tasks to automate – without making patrons feel unwelcome. All our self-service options provide:

Intuitive User Interface

Our self-service equipment features a user-friendly interface designed to guide patrons of all ages and abilities through every step with ease. Clear visuals, multilingual support, and customizable user journeys ensure a smooth and stress-free experience for every patron.

Reliable Operation

Built for high-traffic environments, our systems are engineered for durability and consistent performance. Whether during peak hours or out-of-hours access, you can count on dependable operation that minimizes downtime and maximizes patron satisfaction.

Barrier-Free Accessibility

Our ergonomic library solutions have accessibility at the heart of their design. From height-adjustable kiosks to assistive technology and inclusive software features, our solutions ensure equal access for all users, regardless of physical ability or language proficiency.

Defining Your Needs

As patrons increasingly use self-service options away from the front desk, it is important that you consider carefully where to guide them and which services to offer in your specific library environment.

These considerations can include:

• Library self-checkout kiosk
• Library self-return points
• Other smart solutions

Libraries have long embraced digitalization whilst nurturing the importance of making knowledge available through personal guidance. This is particularly important when introducing or expanding library self-service options.

The Customer Journey

The top priority when it comes to self-service solutions should always be that the services offered enhance the user experience.

You can better understand this by considering questions like:

• Have patrons been asking for specific additions or improvements?
• Are patrons regularly standing in line to return or check out books?
• Is it difficult for patrons to make full use of your services within the current opening hours?
• Are there any issues with being able to pick up holds within the current opening hours?
• Is the current accessibility acceptable for patrons with additional requirements?

Try sketching out the layout of your library and consider how and where you can guide patrons logically to without the need for asking staff for directions.

Do You Need to Free up Time?

Balance this view against your unique library and community setting. It is important to consider which level of direct patron interactions you want to retain, and which services you want to add or free up time for.

Demand for Additional Programs

If you know there is demand in the community for additional programs, you may want to introduce more self-service options to enable your staff to provide these, and possibly also consider Automated Material Handling (AMH) and Intelligent Material Management Systems™ (IMMS™).

Extended (Unmanned) Hours

If you are considering providing library services during unmanned hours, one thing you need to decide is whether you want to let patrons into the library itself or make the services available without the need for entering the library or certain zones.

Streamline Your Processes with RFID Technology

Tagging items with RFID library technology will provide you with the widest range of options for introducing self-service and make the checkout and return processes simpler.

Structure Your Services

Compare your desires to free up staff time with your wishes for the customer journey. Maybe the two align, but if not, you will need to rank your requirements and clearly define your priorities in order to decide which services to offer, and which equipment is required to support this.

Design Your Patrons' Physical Flow

Carefully plan the placement of self-service kiosks to optimize patron flow. Determine which services each kiosk will offer (checkouts, returns, or both) and consider the strategic placement of alarm gates to prevent unnecessary alerts.

Control Access Areas

If you plan to offer extended service hours, consider if you want to have all entry points open, or whether restricted access is feasible for your setting. Also consider if this has implications for the placement of alarm gates.

Ensure a Smooth Logistical Flow

Determine the optimal workflow for returned items, considering whether they should be shelved directly or prepared for the next patron. Identify where staff involvement may be necessary within this process. Consideration of these points will enable you to design a layout that addresses both library staff efficiency and patron convenience.