Technology to allow library to be open unstaffed
The council said feedback from pilot areas had been positive
- Published
New technology is to be installed at libraries in Worcestershire so they can be open even when no staff are on duty.
Malvern Library is one of a number around the county being brought into the council's Libraries Unlocked scheme.
The project allows library members to access the buildings during unstaffed periods, although critics say the downside is fewer staffed hours.
The county council said feedback from Droitwich and Stourport libraries, which piloted the scheme, had been positive.
Libraries Unlocked is now being rolled out to Great Malvern as well as Evesham, Redditch, Kidderminster, Wythall, Pershore, Bromsgrove, Hagley, Alvechurch, Rubery, and Warndon and St John’s libraries in Worcester.
But new software and hardware is needed in the libraries in order for the scheme to work.
In Malvern’s case, this has meant applying for listed building consent as the library is a Grade II listed building.
Work includes the installation of new CCTV cameras and speakers, trunking and cabling infrastructure, and a new entry system that will require users to scan their library card and enter a PIN in order to access the building during unstaffed hours.
“Library staff can determine the opening and closing times of the unstaffed periods in the administration software,” planning documents said.
“If the library is closed and then opens unstaffed, all the lights and computers will come on automatically.
“They will remain on until approaching the end of the unstaffed period when an announcement is made to inform anybody in the library that the library will be closing soon."
The documents said subsequent announcements would be made to encourage anybody in the building to vacate the library.
When closing time is reached, all the lights would go out, all computers would shut down, and the intruder alarm would be set.
District planners this week approved the plans for the library, which was opened in 1906 and is home to the Worcestershire Hub customer service centre and Malvern Registration Services.
It also has Great Malvern’s war memorial within its grounds.
This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.
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