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704-INFO in Olympia area or toll-free 1-800-562-6022.
TRL Web site:
http://www.timberland.lib.wa.us
February 10, 2003
Media Contact: Leanne Ingle, lingle@timberland.lib.wa.us; 360-704-4508, or outside Thurston County calling area: (877) 284-6237.
Timberland Libraries Introduce "Express Checkout"
Six of the busiest Timberland library branches now offer library users the option of checking out books, CDs, movies, and other materials for themselves at new Express Checkout computer stations. The Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater, Yelm, Shelton and Centralia Timberland libraries each have two to three Express Checkout computers. Stations will be installed at other Timberland libraries over the next several months.
Timberland’s first Express Checkout stations were installed last July at the new Yelm Timberland Library. Yelm librarian, Kristin Blalack, reported that from the beginning, adults were favorably impressed with the system and the kids loved it. Most Yelm library patrons use Express Checkout.
The process is simple. Illustrated instructions are posted at each Express Checkout computer. The stations are located near staff who can help, give demonstrations, and do complicated transactions.
Why Express Checkout at Timberland Libraries?
It’s quick. People who are rushed or who enjoy doing things for themselves can skip waiting in line.
The libraries are busier than ever. Express Checkout frees staff for complicated or lengthy transactions, such as registering new users for library cards.
Express Checkout helps libraries maintain high service levels without adding staff. While revenues are shrinking, use of library materials is increasing. In 2002, patrons borrowed 4.33 million items from their Timberland libraries, up from 4.16 million items in 2001.
Some people appreciate the extra privacy. Library staff are trained to preserve the highest level of confidentiality. Still, sometimes people want an extra measure of privacy.
Express Checkout is Coming to More Timberland Libraries
Timberland Regional Library will continue installing Express Checkout stations at Timberland branches in order of the size of the library. The Aberdeen, Hoquiam, Elma, Montesano, Chehalis, Salkum, Winlock, North Mason, and Ocean Park Timberland libraries will be set up over the next few months, then the smallest libraries, based available space.
The "How-To" of Express Checkout
Place your library card barcode under the scanner light. Or type the barcode number.
Type the last 4 digits of your telephone number, and press Enter.
Scan the barcode label of each book or other item. Or type the barcode numbers.
After all items are scanned, press the Enter key.
Take your receipt.
Timberland Regional Library serves Grays Harbor, Lewis, Mason, Pacific, and Thurston counties at 27 community libraries and 6 school-based cooperative library centers. For information on any subject, the public can telephone reference librarians at Timberland’s Central Reference Service at 704-INFO (704-4636) from the Olympia calling area or 1-800-562-6022, toll-free, from all other areas in the district. Or they can "Ask a Librarian" online at http://www.timberland.lib.wa.us/asklib.htm.
Revised 02/13/03
For Information or to Ask a Reference Question:
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Timberland Regional Library serves Grays Harbor, Lewis, Mason, Pacific, and Thurston counties in Western Washington State.