Scottsdale library implements Pony Express system

One Scottsdale library is starting a Pony Express system that will allow cardholders access to the building without librarians present. The Appaloosa branch will use self-service for people to get access to books, DVDs and the rest of its inventory. We discussed the new plan and how the pandemic has been in general, with Scottsdale Library Director Kira Peters.

To begin the conversation host Ted Simons asked Peters about how the last year has been for libraries.

The director said, “Well the past 12 months for libraries much like the rest of the world has been tumultuous to say the least, but it has also been an exciting time and a time where the library team has been innovative and really learned how to turn on a dime especially working in local government. It’s been amazing to see how fast changes have been able to be made in the way that we provide services to the community in the world of libraries.”

Scottsdale public libraries have been open for a while through the pandemic with changes to operational practices. These changes include a new innovation Peters is very proud of at the Appaloosa branch.

“Here in the city of Scottsdale that’s the furthest North library its north of the 101 on Scottsdale Rd. and it has been closed since March of 2020. We have now launched a new and exciting technology, we call it the Pony Express. What this means is despite the fact that we do not have any library employees on the floor, a person can use their library card to scan it, the doors will open and you can enter into that public library… you can use that library all in a day. The only difference is there is no library staff on the floor.”

This includes wifi usage for people in the libraries as well.