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Self Service Facility at Your Local Library

Latest developments: Temporary library closure dates

We can now confirm the following temporary closure dates for all 4 Torbay libraries for the installation of self service kiosks and other associated works as follows:

Brixham Library
12 January - 24 January
to reopen on Monday 26 January

Paignton Library
02 February - 11 February
to reopen on Thursday 12 February

Torquay Library
23 February - 07 March
to reopen on Monday 09 March

Churston Library
09 March - 04 April
to reopen on Monday 06 April

The different length of time each library is closed for reflects the amount of work to be undertaken - Churston Library, for instance, is undergoing essential maintennance as well as the other works. At each library we have closed for the least amount of time possible to complete the works, to help keep impact on our customers to a minimum.

Remember, you can use your library card at any branch in the Bay and items borrowed at one branch can be returned to any other service point except the mobile library. You can also can renew books by telephone or online.

Self Service - your questions answered

Self Service facilities are coming to your local library. Here, we answer some of your most frequently asked questions.

I keep hearing about 'RFID' - what is it?

RFID - Radio Frequency IDentification - is a great opportunity for the library service. It combines security with more efficient tracking of materials throughout the library, including easier and faster issue and return of items, and stocktaking.

It is easy to use and is particularly useful for self-service issue and return of books. Self issue and return by customers helps to save staff time, reduces queues and puts the use of the library in your hands You will be offered, but are not dependent on, staff assistance. The self-service kiosks are multifunctional, dealing with the issue, return and renewal of items and the management of your account.

Self service will be installed in all four of Torbay Library Services’ branch libraries.

Why is RFID being introduced?

The new self service tehcnology is being adopted by many library authorities across the country - for instance, both Devon and Cornwall already have it in some of their libraries. It is an opportunity to modernise the library service, provide you with a better service, allow more space for books, and also save staff time.

When will it happen?

The first library to have a self service kiosk to be installed will be Brixham. To do the electrical and other work involved, each library will close for a short period during the dates detailed above.

Will staffing be reduced?

There will be a limited reduction in staffing over a period of time.

Will we still be able to talk to library staff?

Yes - issuing and returning your books yourself is quick, easy and convenient, and frees up library staff to be able to devote more time to giving you a better and more personal service.

Will we still be able to reserve books?

Yes - and library staff will be able to help you to do so.

How will we cope with the machines?

The self service kiosks are very easy to use. Library staff will be able to help you, and there will also be short introductory leaflets and bookmarks.

How does it work?

The kiosk scans in your library borrower card number, reads the book(s) RFID tag details, and adds this to your membership record. You can then have a receipt printed.

How do we issue or return books?

Simple instructions will be available on each of the kiosks. They are quite similar to the cash machines that you use at the bank. The kiosks have clear and simple touch-screen controls. They also use light indicators. For example, when you need to collect your receipt, the receipt slot is illuminated.

Where do I put the books I have returned?

To the side of the kiosks are trolleys and large bins into which you will post the returned books. When you return a book, an arrow will appear on the screen instructing you where to place the books.

What happens if I forget my library card?

You need your library card to borrow books or audiovisual materials - the kiosks will not work without this. If you forget your card, you will not be able to borrow on that occasion, but we can save your books for a few days so that you can collect them when you find your card.

What about accessibility for children or people in wheelchairs?

The kiosks are all at the same height, and are DDA (Disability Discrimination Act) compliant.

How will people with visual impairment be able to use self-service?

Staff will be freed up from current issuing duties and on hand to assist people who are blind or visually impaired.

Other Languages

The kiosks have a number of buttons on the main page so that some customers can access the kiosks in their first language - for instance Polish or French. When the person has completed the transaction, the kiosk returns to English.

What is in it for me?

More space in the library for public use as desk space is minimised
Reduced queuing to get books issued or returned - a quicker process
Increased security of stock
More accurate catalogue due to stocktaking facility
Library staff will have more time to help you with enquiries

If you have any more questions about the kiosks and self-service in general, please speak to a member of staff or email us as detailed in the right hand panel.