Hervey Bay Library unveils state-of-the-art Returns System
The Hervey Bay Library's returns room has undergone a significant upgrade, making it easier for members to return library books and more efficient for staff to manage the process.
Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said the new system can operate 24/7, allowing staff to spend more time assisting library members on the floor.
“The Hervey Bay Library currently receives over 800,000 returns annually and processes tens of thousands of returns and customer reservations for the Burrum Heads, Howard, Maryborough and Tiaro libraries,” he said.
“In addition, it also manages the cataloguing and distribution of new books for all our Fraser Coast libraries.
“This new system gives us the capability to process 1,800 returns per hour, around the clock if needed.
“This is state-of-the-art technology that will automatically scan every item as it comes down the returns chute.
Cr Seymour said every item has a microchipped tag in it which will tell us what kind of item it is and what smart bin it needs to go into.
“Items then go along a conveyor belt system and are automatically sorted into smart bins ready for shelving or relocation to another branch.
“This allows all items to be sorted by category, so all children's books are placed in one bin while DVDs go into another, ready for shelving.
“Staff can remotely monitor and display the status of incoming books and bin capacity through a system that also allows for configuring email and phone alerts to notify when bins are getting full
“This automated sorting process also improves workplace health and safety for staff by reducing the need for manual handling and minimizing the physical strain of bending down to sort books.
“Our new returns system is a game changer for the library team, streamlining operations and enhancing service, reflecting the Council's commitment to supporting and valuing our libraries as vital community resources.
“This new system is also portable, allowing us to relocate it to the new library when the Hervey Bay Civic Centre is completed in mid-2026.”
Library members can return books 24/7 via the return chutes outside the library's main entrance.