New Self Checkout at Bedford Public Library

A new self checkout system was introduced at the Bedford Free Public Library on Monday, allowing library patrons to circumvent the usual trip to the circulation desk. 

Library Director Richard Callaghan said the self checkout system is something library officials have considered installing for some time.

"We've been wanting to do this for a little while now," Callaghan said. "It took us a while to figure out where we wanted to put it, and we wanted to make sure we did it economically and that it remained a simple process for our patrons."

Callaghan said it was important to the library staff to ensure that the self checkout process was as easy for library patrons as the manual check out process that takes place at the circulation desk. 

"We knew that if patrons didn't like it, if it wasn't easy to use, they wouldn't come back to use it," Callaghan said. 

While the self checkout system is new, library staff members will be stationed at the terminal to assist patrons who are using it for the first time.

The new self checkout will not only expedite the checkout process for library patrons, but also lessen the pressure on library staff during peak hours, when they would previously have to remain anchored to the circulation desk, according to Callaghan.

"We're very busy already and we don't anticipate adding any staff in the near future," Callaghan said. "This new system will alleviate stress on staff members."

Callaghan said the installation of the new system is not an indication of a cutback in library staff, but will allow more staff members to work in other parts of the library instead of focusing on long lines at the circulation desk.

The feedback from patrons thus far has been positive according to Callaghan, who said if the system is successful, library officials will consider installing more self check out terminals.

"We're going to start off slowly and build from there," Callaghan said. "If we see success and that patrons receptive we could consider installing another self checkout upstairs across from the reference desk."

The library received funds for the self checkout through grants and through gift funds, according to Callaghan.