Borrow media independently
On the scanner, ready, read!
Since October, the staff at the Beckum public library have seen even more visitors. Since then, users have been able to borrow and return books and audiovisual media themselves at 2 terminals. And it's child's play: put on your ID and books, confirm your booking, pack up, done!
Once all the books and magazines have been read, audio books listened to and films watched, the return station in the vestibule of the entrance area offers significantly more flexibility. It is also accessible outside opening hours from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., including at weekends.
"Returning books after work fulfils the wishes of many readers," says library employee Eva Mittrup. "And of course we are happy to help with bookings, especially at the beginning," adds her colleague Carola Paulmichl. Both now have more time for providing readers with targeted advice and for educational work.
The project was funded by the Ministry of Culture and Science of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia with 80 per cent for technology and furniture. The remaining 20 per cent was provided by the town of Beckum (2/3) and the parish (1/3). First, the more than 30,000 media items had to be converted in 2023 and new user ID cards issued so that the new system could function smoothly later on. The furniture and technology were then delivered in 2024. The entire ground floor was reorganised, including a modern information desk and wheelchair lift. The system recently went live with the installation of RFID (radio frequency identification) technology for self-checkout and returns. In future, it will also be possible to pay the annual or late fee here.
"In light of the closure in Neubeckum, we are very pleased that we are becoming more efficient here and can rely on the library in Beckum," explained Mayor Michael Gerdhenrich at the press event. This is added value for everyone.
"We will completely renovate, modernise and make the public library in Neubeckum barrier-free in 2025 together with the leisure centre and the senior citizens' section," adds Cornelia Baumann, Head of Education, Culture and Leisure at the City of Beckum.
Cooperation between the two libraries
As part of the remodelling of the Neubeckum public library, the integration of the two libraries, which are run by different organisations, will be further expanded. There is already cooperation in many areas and a joint catalogue has been available for 5 years. The media can be ordered reciprocally.