Libraries Mull Switch To Vending Machines: Self-Service Machines As Alternative To Hiring Employees

[The Straight Story]

Libraries Mull Switch To Vending Machines
Branch Considers Self-Service Machines As Alternative To Hiring Employees

HOLLY HILL, Fla. -- With library funding tight, visits may become less personal and more about self service. It’s all in an effort to save money in Volusia County and make books easier to check out.

"It would be a good compromise, and fast,” Lori Cox said.

For example, the Red Boxes now seen at local 7-Elevens is something much like Volusia County wants to use to replace libraries.

The machine would be a self-service lending machine holding about 360 books and DVDs. The cost to build these machines would be around $15,000 -- cheaper than paying employees.

http://www.clickorlando.com/education/23212229/detail.html

[mwb970]

1. My library has a "self-checkout" machine now.

I never use it. I'd rather help the staff keep their jobs. Same with the "self serve" checkout lanes at my grocery store - I never use them.

[marshall]

2. Remember the joy of a full service gas station?

Just sit back in your car and let someone fill up the tank, check the oil and tires, and wash the windows. Those days are long gone. Even my friend in a wheelchair can't find a full service place. He has to struggle to get his chair out and fill his tank in rain or shine while the attendant blithely looks on from inside the store.

[cali]

5. not long gone in my little town

[Stuart G]

4. Yes, Ours does too...but..

I notice that those manning the check out counters, are indeed the same as those before..No seems to have been let go.
I do believe there is more, not less customer service at the library..

[Tuesday Afternoon]

3. humans are becoming obsolete.

[Javaman]

7. It's one thing to be replaced by a robot...

it's another thing entirely to be replace by a vending machine.

Somehow I feel personally insulted. LOL

How do the robots feel about this? LOL

[surrealAmerican]

6. 360 selections is not enough for this to be a viable alternative.

Even a bookmobile holds more than that.