Open Libraries

Open Libraries

Mary Stuart, Co. Librarian, Offaly County Council

Recommendation : Opportunities for All- innovative approach to flexible opening hours

3 Libraries Offaly◦Banagher– Small community library◦Tullamore – Busy County Town Library

Sligo◦Tubbercurry – Medium size Community

Library

Background

Grant funding provided by DECLG◦RFID◦Technological solution◦Cashless solution

2 levels of Service ◦Full services with staff – normal opening

hours

◦Reduced Services with no staff – extended hours

Pilot

Normal working hours Information services Support users Develop community engagement Programming/E Learning Children's services Local studies

Full services: Library Staff

Every day opening 08.00-22.00 Self service ◦Access to library via automated door and pin

number◦Check in check out materials◦Print, photocopy◦Study◦Meetings◦ Internet/WIFI◦Cashless◦Security backup

Reduced Services with no staff

Banagher Library

Tullamore Central Libary

Photocopy, Print, Scan and mobile printing

Library card and pin – access building

Self service logon to Internet and WIFI

Cashless Library during Open Library Hours

Tubbercurry Community Library

Banagher◦ 21% of members - Open Library members (110 ) ◦ 1000 visits (31% of overall visits during Open Library

hours)◦ 744 Loans (13% of overall loans during Open Library hours)

Tullamore◦ 5% of members - Open Library members (320) ◦ 3500 vists (11% of overall visits during Open Library hours)◦ 952 Loans (3% of overall loans during Open Library hours)

Tubbercurry ◦ 464 visits ◦ 65 members

Usage 2015

FeedbackGreat service, very quiet

and convenient, especially on Sundays

“Best initiative by Tullamore Council ”

Fantastic service, we’re so lucky”

 

“Great idea, means we can access the facility at all sorts of odd hours –

all very happy” 

“Great resource, and an example for others”“Lovely to be able to

come in after hours and relax – no rush!”

Automatic doors. Access control Discreet security cameras. RFID Self service technology Automated lighting and public announcements Automated locking and unlocking of entrances Automated starting and shutting down of pcs Emergency number – access to call out service Support from ICT section and Suppliers

Technology

Security Emergencies – Digital signage CCTV- Voice Activation (burglar and Fire alarms) Toilet access Staff desk Cashless Terms and Conditions –signed contract Access restrictions◦ over 18◦ Account up to date and no fines◦ Terms and conditions –signed

Risk Assessment

Open Libraries - freedom to use the library at the hours that suit users best. ◦Commuters, families, community meetings etc

Increased efficiencies ◦Staff released from mechanical tasks to more

user-focused and enhanced library service during staff hours

Increased user satisfaction levels, visitor rates and numbers of loans.

Benefits

Strengthen the prominence of the library service in the local community by providing a town’s only non-commercial, in-door meeting place, welcoming to all and open daily from early morning to late evening.

Communities - greater ownership of their local library and a sense of greater community protection of the library space and services.

Opportunities