Self-Checkout Available at Library Machines make borrowing books faster
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
The Library is cutting wait times with self-checkout machines that are simple and efficient to use. The machines give students another way to borrow books and allow more time for staff to assist with detailed requests.
“Students are still welcome at the circulation desk, but they now have this new option. It’s their choice,” Johnny Johnson, head of access services, said. “Instead of having to wait in line, they now can opt to check books out themselves.”
The machines were installed shortly after the 2011 spring semester. This summer was used as a test period. Self-checkout is already gaining popularity with students, with 5 percent of circulation desk activity in June coming from the machines, and an increase to 7 percent of activity in July.
The self-checkout units are located on the first floor on the east side of the circulation desk and are available for use during regular library hours.
An OSU ID is all that is needed to use the self-checkout. The machines can be used to check out books and government documents from the main library. Journals and magazines cannot be checked out from the self-check units. Additionally, Interlibrary Services requests as well as hold or recalled material must be checked out by circulation desk staff. Library materials cannot be returned through the self-check units.