2:30 p.m. - 3:15 p.m.
In 2016, RHPL needed to replace 22 OPAC computer stations. Although OPAC stations are used frequently by the customers, user sessions were brief due to the nature of its function. Increasing use of personal devices to access the online catalog and the introduction of a mobile app for catalog searching diminished the need of catalog-searchingonly-stations. In addition, OPAC stations took significant footprint in highly used spaces in the library. Considering these challenges, the library turned them into opportunities by creating a project to convert OPAC stations to Discovery stations. Discovery kiosks strategically located throughout the building encourage interaction. Touchscreen kiosks have welcome screens to discover library services including the online catalog, programs and events, floor plans, and FAQs. When users are not interacting with the kiosk, the screen displays images, video, and flyers functioning like promotional digital signage. Launched earlier this year, the project anticipates an increase in the number of OPAC sessions searching library materials, enrichment of customer choices with more options to find library resources and services, and the creation of intuitive and interactive customer experience. Come hear the results!
