Rural libraries expanding after-hours card access

The rural communities of Hamilton are no longer “out in the boonies” when it comes to library services.

Fresh on the success of technological aids that allow extended access into the Freelton library when it is locked and without staff, the public library is looking at expanding the innovation to other rural branches.

Library users in Freelton, who make use of the privilege, have agreed to terms and conditions before getting their library cards converted. The process allows them to enter the closed branch in the same way one would enter a secure workplace with their access card.

The times they can enter must correspond with the hours and availability of Central library staff who can answer any questions remotely. Once inside, patrons have use of a video link to Central library for staff help.

As well, there are security cameras all over the Freelton branch, which are monitored by security staff at Central to ensure compliance to the terms, to see anything untoward and to avoid problems.

This state-of-the-art access and remote support is a first in Canada. It is modelled on similar services in Europe and the U.S., says Hamilton library’s director of digital technology, Sherry Fahim.

The service has attracted attention from other Canadian libraries. On Oct. 4, Hamilton is hosting 35 librarians from 10 libraries in Ontario, Montreal and Halifax who are coming to see how the system works.

Only patrons over age 14 can have special card access to the locked branch, says Fahim. Children can get in with an adult who has access, but the adult must remain with the child at all times, as per the terms of use, Fahim said.

In Freelton, the library’s most northern branch, the expanded access for its 2,500 residents has seen branch use there go up 19 per cent in just five months.

Branch hours have been extended from 17 hours a week to 60 under the new system. Only 24 of those hours have staff inside the branch.

Library staff will install the same system at the Lynden branch sometime this fall, says Fahim. And it is looking to do the same in Greensville some time in the future, she added.