The New Look Bedford Central Library
Below are a few of the changes recently made at Bedford Central Library, as well as some of our customer's reactions.
Come in and have a look around for yourself!
"It is amazing! Such a marked improvement. Completely transforms the atmosphere. Such a positive environment. Wow!"
The new RFID kiosks are simple to use. You can use them to borrow, return, or renew items.
"A much better system than before which allows you to check your own books out. This gets rid of the large desk to provide more floor space. I also like the staff circulating as opposed to being stuck behind a desk!"
The kiosks are easy to use, but staff are always around to assist you if require help.
"Welcome to the 21st Century! Well done Bedford."
The screens display clear instructions, but staff are on hand if you need a little extra help.
"Much improved layout. Far more user friendly."
The layout of stock has changed, for example travel books are now on the second floor. There are layout guides available or staff can direct you to the right areas.
"Being 83 years old I found the new set up a bit daunting BUT your staff have been most helpful."
If you need help with the RFID kiosks, or you're not sure where to find something, staff floor walk on both floors so feel free to ask anyone with a blue lanyard for help!
"The fact that reference material is shelved with the other non-fiction books is hugely helpful as it enables me to quickly see all stock on one subject as opposed to checking numerous places!".
Reference books are now shelved with the rest of the stock, meaning you don't have to look in two different places for books on the same subject. Reference books can only be used in the library, but they are easy to spot with their red spine label.
"At 84 this library is now a major part of my life. The staff have done a marvellous job and have completed a splendid change here.
Instead of queuing to pick up your requested items, you can pick them up yourself from the shelves by the stairs. Just look for the book with your name sticking out of its spine and then check it out at the RFID kiosk. Don't worry, nobody else can take your book, it can only be checked out on your ticket.
"Very attractive, the atmosphere is much calmer and relaxing, and very nice to be able to use the space in the library."
The large old counter on the 1st floor has been removed, creating more floor space for customers to browse, and a seating area.
"I am favourably impressed. Seems more spacious and conducive to work."
There is more space in the study area on the second floor.
"It looks really nice. Seems to be bigger."
Local Studies has spread out, making it easier for you find your way around. All books on Family History have also been brought together to make your Family History search easier.
"Very impressed! The space is being used so well, it really opens the library up."
All the stock you would expect to find is still in the library, it may have been moved to more accessible or useful areas.
"A great improvement!! There seems to be so much more space!"
Fiction is more open, giving you more space to browse.
"I think it is fantastic now, and I will come more often."
The areas around the Microfiche machines have also been improved, giving you more space to do your research.
"Very impressed. I like the way the computers have been set out."
Instead of having all of the computers crammed into one corner, they have been dispersed around the second floor, giving computer users a bit more space for their elbows!
17th January 2014