The Lincoln Pelham Public Library (LPPL) has introduced a cutting-edge addition to its services by installing book lockers at its Fonthill and Maple Acre branches earlier this year.
The lockers, funded by a $146,900 grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), are a novel solution to enhance library access for the community according to Kelly Spence, LPPL's Marketing and Outreach Coordinator.
"We've had a lot of questions about them," Spence said, highlighting the community's curiosity and interest in the new feature. She explained the lockers are a convenient option for patrons wanting to pick up materials outside of library hours, or on their way home from work.
"These lockers give us a chance to have a physical presence when there isn't a branch open or nearby. They offer people the opportunity to access library materials even when the building is closed, whether during regular hours or for renovations."
Although there are currently no concrete plans or start date, Spence said a renovation of the library’s Fonthill branch is on the horizon. Per the the Accessibility for Ontarians With Disabilities Act (AODA), all businesses and organizations in Ontario must be fully accessible by 2025. When the time comes for the renovation, Spence said the book lockers will be a great example of continuing services at the branch while the library itself may be closed for construction.
In addition to the lockers, Spence said part of the grant also paid for a book lending machine and drop-off spot already in place at the Meridian Community Centre. The pick-up lockers were delayed due to the pandemic and were installed in February.
Patrons can review their library card accounts, renew items and pick up the items they put a hold on. Readers wanting their holds to be placed in a locker, may choose either a Fonthill locker or a Maple Acre locker in Fenwick as the pickup location.
To change a pickup location for items that are already on the hold shelf in the library, make sure to call at least an hour before pickup and no later than an hour before the library location closes.
"Whether it's the Fonthill locker or the Maple Acre locker, patrons have the flexibility to choose the most convenient option for them,” Spence said.
