Orange Beach Library Receives Grant for Self-Checkout Station

The Orange Beach Public Library has been awarded a Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grant by the Alabama Public Library Service in the amount of $14,797 for the fiscal year 2008.

The Strengthening Information Technology Grant was submitted by Alisa McLeod and will be used for the purchase of a self-checkout station to help provide and improve services for library patrons. This project meets the library’s goals by creating and maintaining a progressive library environment.

The self-checkout system will strengthen the electronic infrastructure within the library for an increasingly service-oriented library. McLeod noted the self-checkout system will result in higher levels of patron satisfaction. Patrons should experience shorter checkout lines. In addition, normally tied to the circulation desk, staff will have more time to help people locate items, provide information and training, and answer questions. Once complete the project will allow patrons to choose between the self-checkout and traditional checkout by library staff.

The Orange Beach Public Library anticipates installation of the self-checkout station to be completed in June 2008.

The grant is funded by the Alabama Public Library Service under the Library Services and Technology Act, P.L.108-81, as amended, through the Institute of Museum and Library Services. For more information on self-checkout and the Orange Beach Public Library visit the library’s website at www.orangebeachlibrary.org or call 251-981-2923. The library is open Monday, Tuesday and Friday from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m., Tuesday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturdays 9 a.m. until 3 p.m.