New library making most of technology

It might seem difficult to maintain the library as a quiet place to read and work if teenagers are playing video games a dozen feet away.

But when the renovated and expanded Cape Girardeau Public Library opens in early May, sound cones in the gamers area will give users all the noise they want while other patrons hear little. The installation of the directional speakers is just one example of how architects have incorporated innovative technology to make the library more inviting, executive director Betty Martin said.

Another new feature will be expedited material check-in that will be almost automatic, Martin said. Every book, DVD, CD or other item offered for take-home use will be fitted with a radio-frequency identification chip that, when placed in the return bin, will automatically update the library's systems. The system is a first for a Missouri library, she said.

For example, Martin said, patrons are allowed to have only five DVDs checked out at any time. Without the automated system, employees must physically process the check-in through a scanner before a patron can check out more items for home use.

The new system will also sort the materials by type and place them on one of five conveyors that will deposit them in a bin with similar materials for reshelving. By using the system -- similar to that used by major warehouse distributors to monitor inventories -- the library will not need double the number of employees as it doubles in size.

FRED LYNCH ~ flynch@semissourian.comRenovations continue at the Cape Girardeau Public Library.

The traditional librarian at the check-in desk will still be there, Martin said. But for people who are comfortable with self-checking technology similar to that used in supermarkets, the new system will speed up the routine parts of their visits so they have more time for browsing the library's expanded offerings.

"People want to have total self-check," Martin said. "We assume our use is going to double, but we can't double the staff and maintain our collections."

Voters in February 2007 approved extra property taxes to fund the library expansion. Most of the increase, 15 cents per $100 of assessed valuation, will expire after 20 years when the bonds sold to finance the expansion are repaid. When voters approved the taxes, the projected cost was put at $8.9 million, and overall, Martin said, the project is under budget.

The actual construction costs, not including architect fees, furnishings or the $150,000 paid for temporary spaces, is pegged at about $6.5 million. Technology costs have run close to $400,000, of which half is being used for the automated check-in system.

Some of the new library features are:

• Five conference rooms ranging in size from a 510-square-foot room capable of accommodating a group of 200 to two 36-square-foot rooms for small groups or tutoring.
• A Youth Services room at 1,680 square feet along with a Youth Programs area that will measure 336 square feet.
• A total of 45 computer work stations that will provide high-speed Internet access. In addition, the library will offer Wi-Fi access for people who prefer to work on their own laptop computers in the library.
• Built-in projection equipment and screens that will allow DVD viewing and computerized presentations without rearranging space each time it is needed.

Overall, Martin said the library trustees' vision of building a "destination library" that draws people for a variety of programming and services is bearing fruit. "All of a sudden, it is getting close," Martin said. "It is when I come to the site and come inside that I just can't wait. I feel like I am dreaming."

rkeller@semissourian.com

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