Library Closed? No Problem! Visit a 24-hour Library Kiosk
May 31, 2023 — If the library is closed and you need to get a book or DVD, you can find one 24/7 at the Library Express East, the 24-hour, outdoor library kiosk on the parking lot of the Frisco Building, 3263 E. Chestnut Expy., near U.S. 65.
On the west side, instead? Visit the Library Express West, 3872 W. Chestnut Expy., on the Orchard Plaza lot.
The Library Express “book vending machines” make it easy to request, check out or return a library item, and it’s fast. See how it works on our YouTube video, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3FaSod2AVwU
The kiosk is completely automated, like a book vending machine. Springfield-Greene County Library cardholders can scan their card, browse a revolving bookshelf for some 340 books and DVDs, check them out and get a due date reminder receipt.
From anywhere, a person can use the library catalog, thelibrary.org/catalog, to place items on hold and have them delivered to the kiosk for pick up. An automated drawer accepts returns. There’s also a touch-screen electronic catalog on the kiosk to browse for items in the library’s districtwide collection.
The vending unit is under a lighted canopy, so it’s easy to use anytime, in any weather.
The Library Express East opened in August 2022 to serve residents and travelers in east Springfield. The Library Express West opened to serve the west side in February 2019. The west-side kiosk was the first of its kind in Missouri and one of only a dozen in the United States.
Both units were funded by the Friends of the Library and a Library Services and Technology grant through the State Library. The library district funds the maintenance and utilities costs, and leases the sites.