You Ask, We Answer

We get a lot of great suggestions and questions in our comments box here at the library, and it's high time we shared! Every week we'll focus on a topic that you want to know about the library. So, if you're in the building, go ahead and fill out one of our yellow comment cards to get your topic in the spotlight. OR, since you're already reading this blog, make a comment now. We love to hear from you!

Libraries Gone Hi-Tech

Self-checkout machines and a DVD kiosk - the library has gone through some major changes in the past year. Some of you might wonder if technology really does make life better. In the library, the answer is yes.

For years we received requests from our users to allow more privacy in checking out materials. Some folks have personal concerns that they are researching, and don't want to share with the general population. We understand, and we responded to your needs. Our new self-checkout machines allow patrons the privacy they deserve while cutting down on the lines at the Accounts Desk to make checking out a faster and easier process. Before our self-checkout was introduced, it was normal to see lines wrap across the entryway. Now, there is seldom a wait of a more than a minute or two. And no one sees what you're checking out but you.

Which brings me to our second hi-tech tool, the DVD MediaBank. Missoula has a variety of residents, even some who are less honest than others. When our feature films started to go missing we looked for a better means of securing them. The MediaBank allows for full browsing by a variety of interests, and checks out the movie to the user before it hands over the DVD. But security was only part of our reason for using this new technology - folks who want to check out a movie don't have to wait with those checking out other materials so lines are shorter, your privacy is complete with self-service, and you can return the DVD straight to the machine for instant check-in and removal from your account. Some of you may recall our original DVD dispenser. Unfortunately, while the theory was sound, technology hasn't caught up enough to make it a viable, working machine. We got our money refunded as you would with anything you purchased that wasn't working properly, and moved on to a better solution.

With these hi-tech changes, serving you is our priority. Our staff is here to help you find materials, answer questions about your account, and get your suggestions of what's good to read, hear, or watch. Offering self-checkout frees up staff to be in the stacks where you have the most questions. We have "roving librarians" out and about, and we want to be stopped and asked questions - so please do! We are well-staffed and haven't experienced the layoffs other libraries have faced across the nation because we're lucky to have such a supportive community that funds the library and acknowledges us as an important place for lifelong learning and community connection. Thanks Missoula!