Berkeley County Library System First In State To Implement Cutting Edge AllCirc Technology

The Berkeley County Library System will be the first in the state to implement AllCirc machines, the latest trend in library technology. The machines, available later this month at the Goose Creek and Moncks Corner libraries, are cutting edge storage retrieval systems which allow customers to self-checkout DVDs, CDs and books.

According to Donna Osborne, Director of the Berkeley County Library System, circulation has increased by 62% over the past two years. After researching the machines' positive impact on customer service and efficiency, Osborne submitted the proposed purchase, which would utilize stimulus funds, to Berkeley County Council and received approval.

The machines are simple to use and operate in a manner similar to grocery store self-checkouts. Customers scan their library card at the unit, then scan the DVDs, CDs and/or books they want to check-out.

"This is an effective and efficient way to provide improved service to our customers as traffic through our libraries increases," explains Osborne.

Osborne says library systems in Spokane Valley, Washington; Denver, Colorado; Wellington, Florida and Kingman, Arizona use the AllCirc system. These libraries have positive reports on customer service impact and customer reception.

"In the age of computers and new technologies, most people visit the library not because they have to, but because they want to," says Osborne. "Serving customers is our primary focus, and quite simply, the reason we exist."

Berkeley County Supervisor Dan Davis is excited about implementing the AllCirc machines and the impact on customer service.

"I'm excited about implementing the new AllCirc machines and know this will be of great service to the public," says Berkeley County Supervisor Dan Davis. "Our hardworking library staff is dedicated to ensuring our library system provides quality materials and up-to-date resources. These machines will further enhance our Library System's efficiency."

Osborne says the system's libraries are assisting customers searching for employment. For many, the library has become the first stop for information about finding jobs, writing resumes, continuing their education and identifying social services available to them. With more and more employers requiring online job applications, many customers utilize library staff to guide them through the basic steps required to submit an application electronically on our public computers.

"We really are becoming a community referral source," says Osborne. "The new AllCirc machines will reduce the need for as much staffing at the check-out counter, which will allow staff to better assist with research and resource needs of our customers."