No more names or paper slips for library pick-ups

Readers going to pick up pre-ordered books from local libraries will need to get used to a new system from the end of the month.

The current paper slips bearing people’s names and placed inside each requested title are being phased out in favour of an anonymous, paperless pick-up regime.

Starting Tuesday, May 28, all pre-ordered books and other items will still be in the same pick-up area, but on numbered shelves instead of in named alphabetical order.

Auckland Libraries says anyone who orders a book will receive an email letting them know it’s ready to be picked up and which numbered shelf it will be on, information that will also be available on the Auckland Libraries app.

A spokesperson says the only real change people will notice is if they want more than one item, they may need to be collected from more than one shelf, but the benefits will outweigh any minor inconvenience.

“We’re introducing an innovative technology that will automate some of the manual tasks involved in moving and managing our collections around our libraries,” they say. “We value customers’ privacy, and moving to an anonymised system will mean names will no longer be visible on a paper slip in a public space in the library. “In addition, by removing the paper slips, we’ll be playing our part to reduce the amount of paper waste and our environmental impact.”

Any library items on hold shelves before May 28 will still be arranged alphabetically by surname until they are picked up or expire. Items placed on the hold shelves on or after May 28 will be placed on the new, numbered shelves. 

“We understand that learning this new system may take time to get used to, especially for those who have used our current library holds system for a long time,” the spokesperson added.

“Please be reassured that our staff will be available to help if you need support or don’t have access to a personal device. We ask you to be kind to our staff and patient while we all adapt to this new system.”

Info: https://www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/Pages/holds-pick-up-change.aspx