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LIBRARY
FURNITURE
Self-service stations and book inlets
(so-called book-drops)
They provide a secure, self-service and contactless way to pick up and return books 24 hours a day, seven days a week also outside the normal operating hours of a lending library. In the age of automation, self-service stations are becoming an indispensable element supporting the operation of modern libraries.
Self-service stations and book inlets, can keep collections for any period of time needed for the reader to retrieve them and return them to the book collection. These solutions promote reading by improving the convenience of the user, who is now free to decide the hours for pick-up and return.
The self-service stations can be made in the form of standing or hanging cabinets with any number and size of lockers. In the basic version, each box is locked with a key lock. The lockers can also be closed with electronic combination locks suitable for outdoor use.
The self-service stations installed outdoors, thanks to unlimited time access to the collections left in it, enable libraries to be used 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including on public holidays.
Equipping the self-service stations with battery-powered electronic locks enables the lockers to be used without the need for an external power supply. EKP locks generate codes valid for opening the door once.
In this way, once the locker is released, it can be used by another person with a new generated PIN to open the door once. The occupancy of the locker is indicated by an illuminated LED.
Complementing the range of lockers for libraries and reading rooms are so-called library inlets, commonly referred to as book drops. These cabinets enable contactless and self-service return of resources to libraries and lending facilities.
With the help of an easy-to-use drop-in box, books land safely in the cabinet drawer. The cabinet door is secured by a key or combination lock. Mounting the book drops outdoors allows books to be handed in regardless of the opening days and hours of the libraries or reading rooms.
We make cabinets and book drops to the exact specifications of our customers. We advise, design and manufacture them in any size and colour, and also offer a UV printing service on them.
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library furniture is subject to individual pricing
SELF-SERVICE STATION
Książkomat Techmark to nowoczesne rozwiązanie umożliwiające bezkontaktowy odbiór zamówionych książek poza godzinami pracy biblioteki. Intuicyjny interfejs ułatwia obsługę zarówno użytkownikom, jak i administratorom. Idealny dla bibliotek publicznych, uczelnianych i szkolnych.
LIBRARY INLET
Wrzutnia biblioteczna Techmark umożliwia bezpieczny i szybki zwrot książek bez konieczności wchodzenia do budynku. Solidna obudowa zapewnia ochronę zwracanych materiałów. Wrzutnia wspiera automatyzację procesów bibliotecznych i zwiększa komfort użytkowników.
have questions?
we have the answers
What is a self-service station, and how does it work?
A self-service station is a modern library device that allows users to pick up books without the assistance of a librarian. It works similarly to a package locker—users receive a code that allows them to retrieve their ordered books from a selected locker.
As a result, the book-lending machine allows users to access the library outside of its opening hours. This solution significantly increases the accessibility of the collection and improves service for readers, particularly in large cities and public libraries.
Are self-service stations used in libraries?
Yes—library self-service kiosks are increasingly being implemented in public, school, and academic libraries. They allow users to quickly pick up books without having to wait in line.
In practice, self-service library stations support librarians’ work, reduce staff workload, and allow for better organization of loans. This solution is part of the trend toward the automation of public services.
What is a library inlets used for?
A book drop allows readers to return books without having to enter the library. Readers can return borrowed items at any time, even outside of the library’s operating hours.
This makes returning books more convenient and accessible. The library inlet is particularly useful in public libraries, where a large number of users access services around the clock.
Does the library inlet allow for 24-hour book returns?
Yes—one of the biggest advantages is the ability to return books 24 hours a day. Readers aren’t limited by library hours and can return books whenever it’s convenient for them.
This solution improves the user experience and reduces lines at the library. Book drop boxes are now standard in modern libraries that prioritize accessibility and convenience.
What are the advantages of a self-service station?
A self-service book checkout machine increases access to the collection and reduces the time spent serving readers. It allows for quick pickup of reserved items without the need to interact with staff.
Additionally, self-service stations help manage foot traffic in the library and reduce the workload on staff. This solution is particularly useful in high-traffic areas.
Is a self-service station the same thing as a library vending machine?
A self-service station is one type of library vending machine.
The broader concept of library systems may also include other devices, such as book drop boxes. Together, they form modern library equipment. There are also book vending machines combined with a book drop box, which provide a standalone solution for automated borrowing and returns.
What kind of library furniture is needed in a modern library?
Modern library furniture includes not only traditional bookcases but also automated solutions for check-out and return, such as self-service stations and library inlets. These solutions streamline operations and improve service accessibility.
As a result, library furnishings become more functional and better suited to users’ needs. Automation also allows for better management of space and reader services.
