When the library was faced with an unexpected tear down of its permanent home, it needed to relocate quickly. A rushed timeline and a dramatic reduction in space presented the challenges of effectively communicating the move with patrons and continuing to deliver stellar library services with a dramatically reduced space (15,000 ft² vs. 3,000 ft²). The drastic move presented the opportunity to deliver an improved service model and create a test space embodying the SmartStore experience.

The space features convenient access to technology and power, self-checkouts, a tailored collection of popular, high circulating items and customer service focused staff. All of the furniture can be moved to reconfigure space for different spacing needs and digital signage can be changed to share library events. To service patrons outside of regular hours, it includes a 24/7 lobby with a self-serve media box (soon to have video games), book vending and “smart” holds lockers.

Customers love being able to browse books and movies as well as access pick-up lockers anytime 24/7. Proximity to a juice bar and other shops has also made the library a popular hangout destination. Operationally, the interim location has maintained 80 percent of the circulation and 94 percent of the visits of the old branch in only 20 percent of the space. With overhead per circulation down 20 percent, this model is very cost effective while improving customer service.