Mead Public Library's Expanded Access with D-Tech’s SMART Lockers

“D-Tech is the only vendor that provides a unit that will allow back access to the lockers.”

Cheryl Nessman, Support Services Manager, Mead Public Library

Library Overview

Mead Public Library, in the state of Wisconsin, serves a community of approximately 65,000 people, providing access to over 2.4 million books, movies, audiobooks, and other resources as a member of the Monarch Library System. The library’s mission is to connect people with ideas, resources, and technology to educate, entertain, and empower, serving as a central hub for community enrichment.

The Challenge

There were three main factors Mead Public Library required from any solution:

Deliver 24/7 library access to increase lending

Mead Public Library recognized a growing need for a 24/7 library pickup locker system to accommodate patrons unable to visit during regular hours, such as shift workers.

Protect staff from the elements

While considering outdoor locker placements, the library was mindful of Wisconsin’s harsh winters. With average daily temperatures below 38°F, the library needed a holds locker solution that could be loaded from inside to ensure that staff could maximize the library’s new innovative solution while minimizing exposure to the snow and ice outside.

Integrate seamlessly with existing ILS

Compatibility with the library’s Polaris ILS was essential for a smooth and efficient patron experience.

The library approached multiple vendors, but none could provide a rear-loading locker system. Mead needed a partner that could customize both the hardware and software to meet their unique needs.

The Solution

D-Tech’s SMART library lockers, with a unique rear-loading feature, provided the ideal solution. In a groundbreaking project, Mead became the first library to adopt this particular internally loaded exterior locker. It allowed staff to stock lockers through an outer wall, empowering patrons to access holds from outside the library building at any time, day or night.

Anne Lawler from D-Tech said:

“D-Tech was the only company capable of delivering this solution because we manufacture our own lockers and own our proprietary software. This control allowed D-Tech to collaborate closely with Mead’s architects to seal the unit into the building’s wall and redesign the locker system to include rear-loading doors.

“Additionally, our in-house development team modified the SMART software to notify patrons when their items were ready for pickup, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish. The integration with Polaris further streamlined patron interactions, making the lockers a fully compatible SMART locker system.

The Results

Customization and Implementation – When librarians speak, D-Tech listens!

Though D-Tech’s lockers were designed to include rear-loading as an option, Mead Public Library’s specific request to load from inside the library required D-Tech to completely re-engineer the unit’s design. This marked a first in library installations and showcased D-Tech’s commitment to listening to librarians’ needs and providing tailored solutions.

Impact on Library Services

Targeted initially for shift workers, Mead’s 24/7 hold lockers quickly gained popularity among a diverse patron base. Parents, individuals with mobility challenges, and even patrons picking up after downtown outings appreciated the convenient access to their favorite library materials. Additionally, Mead used the lockers to safely distribute COVID tests, reducing in-building exposure for symptomatic patrons.

Staff Experience

The locker system provided a new sense of accomplishment among staff, who were able to extend the library beyond normal hours and therefore improve the service for patrons. With some training and workflow adjustments, the Mead library team found the system easy to operate and manage.

The rear-loading design allowed staff to load lockers while staying warm inside the library, avoiding exposure to Wisconsin’s freezing winter temperatures. This innovative, yet practical, design delivered a step change in patron services while ensuring long-term comfort for Mead’s team members.

Increased Access for Patrons

Mead’s SMART lockers have opened up new access points for patrons, meeting needs the library hadn’t previously considered. While it is too early to determine precise borrowing impacts, the lockers have already encouraged more patrons to place holds.

Aftercare and Support

D-Tech’s responsive aftercare included prompt service requests, spare parts, and technical support. Mead’s maintenance team has found the lockers easy to manage, with any minor installation challenges promptly addressed by D-Tech’s team.