Don't panic. Computers have not taken over the world yet, but they can help you get through library checkout quickly.
The Yorkton Public Library's self checkout computer is going over smoothly since its arrival several weeks ago.
"There will still always be someone at the circulation desk. It's not to replace a person but (to help out) when it gets busy. I think it can get younger people and a different kind of audience interested in the library," chief librarian Ben Gosling.
The computer can only be used for print material, not DVDs or CDs. The process consists of scanning the library card, entering one's pin library number, placing the book under the scanner and printing off a receipt. All steps are prompted by the touchscreen computer.
"So far the people that have used it have had no issues whatsoever and just kind of intuitively use everything how it's supposed to be used," said Gosling.
Nevertheless, it is worth pointing out the the book must be desensitized to avoid setting off the alarm on the way out.
The addition of the touchscreen was decided on by the library board. It is the first in Parkland and one of few in Saskatchewan using the technology.
"It's with our focus of embracing technology, moving forward and making everything a little more user-friendly," said Gosling.
