King County Library System Opens Unstaffed "Express" Branch

Residents of new development said they wanted holds pick-up above all else.
by: Norman Oder

• Residents preferred walking to driving
• Cameras maintain security without staff
• Other libraries offer different "Express" branches

So, how to expand library service on a tight budget? Some libraries have tried vending machines (such as the Go Library/Library-a-Go-Go) or kiosks. The King County Library System (KCLS), WA, just opened an unstaffed 300-square-foot Library Express @ Redmond Ridge, in partnership with the Redmond Ridge Residential Owners Association.

The new mini-branch was inspired by a survey of community residents; some 95 percent said they would rather pick up their holds in a nearby unstaffed library than drive to a full-service library. Redmond Ridge is a 1,228-unit master-planned community.The Library Express does offer services beyond holds pick-up. Two computers provide access to the library catalog, and there’s a browsing collection of paperbacks. To reach a librarian patrons can use a dedicated phone and contact the nearby Redmond Regional Library.

To get into the building, patrons must scan or type in their library card number, but books can be returned via a book drop outside. How to maintain security? Cameras both inside and outside the building.

Other "Express" libraries

Some other libraries use the “Express” name but with different configurations. For example, Houston Public Library offers HPL Express, a small but staffed facility intended to be installed within existing buildings, multi-service centers, office buildings, shopping malls, and airports.

The Wake County Public Libraries, NC, offers Express Library Fayetteville Street inside the Wake County Office Building. And an Express branch of the Douglas County Library System, Castle Rock, CO, is planned for a new development called Georgetown Village.

From: Library Journal