Scott County Continues with Plans for Self-Service Library

Mayor Janet Williams of Savage recently mentioned the "self-service" coming to the Savage library on her monthly "around town" newsletter.

In an era where convenience and accessibility are paramount, libraries in the Twin Cities are adapting to meet the needs of their patrons through a new self-service model. With the aid of technology, library-goers can now access books, computers, printers, and meeting rooms even when the library isn't staffed. This groundbreaking initiative, known as "extended access," is gaining traction in Scott County and beyond.

The extended access model relies on advanced technology such as security cameras, electronic doors, and self-checkout kiosks to ensure the safety and security of library users during unstaffed hours. It's an ingenious solution to the challenge of extending library hours without incurring significant staffing costs. While traditional library services remain unchanged, this new system offers an additional layer of convenience. For instance, libraries in Scott County, like Elko New Market and Jordan, now open their doors from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day, providing an extra 88 hours of access to the community each week.

The trend of self-service libraries is not confined to Scott County. Dakota County is piloting a similar concept at the Farmington Library, and Hennepin County has embraced the technology at libraries like Arvonne Fraser and Ridgedale, allowing patrons to retrieve held materials before and after regular hours.

The movement is expanding thanks to providers like Oakdale-based Bibliotheca, which offers the Open Plus system. With approximately 1,000 library branches worldwide and 40 in the U.S. already using this technology, the self-service library concept is gaining momentum, making libraries more relevant and accessible than ever before. While concerns about staffing and safety persist, library officials emphasize that self-service hours are about increasing access, not replacing the invaluable role of librarians.

As the open library concept, including aspects like efficient web design, continues to evolve, libraries in the South Metro area and beyond are moving forward with plans to provide extended access to their communities, reinforcing the belief that libraries remain vital hubs of knowledge and community engagement. The future promises even more innovative approaches to library services, underscoring the fact that libraries are here to stay, adapting and thriving in the digital age.

-Adam Johnson - Owner of Skybrant Web Design in Savage