The first public library book dispensing machine in the United States has arrived. Beginning today commuters with a Contra Costa County library card will be able to check out items from a book lending machine at the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) Pittsburg/Bay Point station. The machines are built by the Swedish company Distec and cost about $100,000 each.
How it works:
“A touch screen, similar to an ATM screen, is used to select from up to approximately 500 items that are delivered through an opening in the front of the unit. Materials are returned in a similar way. A robotic arm controls the selection and data input creates attractive screen displays with book jacket images, reviews, and tables of content and other enhanced content information.”
“Library-a-Go-Go offers passengers a library experience that is fast, available at convenient hours, easy to use and customer focused.” says BART District 2 Director Joel Keller.
And you don’t need a car to get there!
Three other locations are set to receive the machine during Phase One.
Contra Costa County press release