Exciting news for Harrow borough as eight of the 11 libraries have now been equipped with the new machines. Early indications show that over 90 percent of transactions in these branches were carried out via the new machines.
More than 23,000 books, DVDs and CDs passed through the self serve machines in the last week alone.
All of Harrow's libraries will be fitted with the new self serve machines by September and are part of the borough's battle to keep its much loved service running.
Cllr David Perry, Portfolio Holder for Community and Cultural Services, said:
"The very positive early usage figures are a boost to what we are doing in the borough. With over 90 percent of residents visiting our libraries using these machines it is clear that this scheme has been embraced by the community.
It is because we are so passionate about our library service that we have taken this step to introduce new labour and money saving technology. This modernisation project will help keep the boroughs libraries open and save £1.1m a year. We see our branches as more than a place to borrow books, they are community hubs and we are committed to protecting this valued service."
The machines are very simple and easy to use. You can also pay overdue fines at the machines. This has helped the staff to free up their time and use it for people who need their help in the libraries.
Source: Harrow Council
