Insights and Trends, News + Press Releases
Oakdale, MN – 06/21/2023 – Today, Bibliotheca announced the global release of smartShelf borrow, an integrated intelligent-shelving return and borrow solution for libraries of all sizes. smartShelf borrow combines intelligent return shelving with the power of selfCheck to allow instant recirculation of recently returned items. Library users simply place returns on the shelf and technology does the rest – identifying the items, removing them from the user’s account, enabling security, and making them immediately available for borrowing through the integrated selfCheck self-service checkout solution.
“We’re excited to bring the smartShelf borrow solution worldwide” says Joe Grillo, Bibliotheca’s CEO. “smartShelf borrow is a great addition to Bibliotheca’s portfolio and allows libraries of all sizes to automate returns, increase circulation, and free staff time.”
While Bibliotheca’s smartShelf has been widely used in Australia and Europe for over 10 years, smartShelf borrow introduces a new workflow with the ability to borrow right at the point of return. Perfect for “Lucky Day” collections, smartShelf borrow helps reduce wait times for popular items as patrons can borrow these materials as soon as they are returned with no need to wait for reshelving.
“Customers have long been requesting this solution to complement their after-hours circulation capabilities,” says Joe. “By placing smartShelf borrow in a 24/7 vestibule, libraries can offer not only after hours returns, but also the option to borrow recently returned items after the library has closed.”
smartShelf borrow is the newest addition to Bibliotheca’s portfolio of returns solutions, and is perfectly positioned between the basic book drop and Bibliotheca’s large multi-bin sorter and automatic materials handler, flex AMH.
About Bibliotheca
Bibliotheca is dedicated to the development of innovative technologies and library management solutions that help sustain and grow libraries around the world. Bibliotheca reimagines how libraries function, using integrated technology to inspire and delight all kinds of people, wherever they are: at home, on the move, or within the library walls.
Bibliotheca employs 400 people across 21 countries, partnering with 30,000 libraries to make the library experience—physical and digital—seamless, intuitive and inclusive.
For more information on this release, please contact
press@bibliotheca.com.