Homecrest Library Unveils Self-Checkout Service

The new BPL computer checkouts, equipped with shoulder-mounted laser scanner. Caution: Keep away from lighting.

The Homecrest branch of the Brooklyn Public Library (2525 Coney Island Avenue) is debuting new self-checkout service, enabling patrons to check out, renew and return books without the hassle of a face-to-face encounter.

Assemblyman Steven Cymbrowitz, Brooklyn Public Library President and CEO Linda E. Johnson, as well as other community members and Brooklyn Public Library staff, will be celebrating the initiation of these machines at the library tomorrow, July 24, at 3 p.m.

The Brooklyn delegation of the State Assembly, of which Cymbrowitz is a member, helped acquire a Community Capital Assistant Program grant of $2 million for the Brooklyn Public Library’s self-checkout machines.

Self-checkout machines have already been installed in other local libraries, including the Kings Bay library branch (3650 Nostrand Avenue), and the Bay Ridge library branch.

According to BPL, this technologically advanced service helps library visitors borrow and return books and other items more quickly and efficiently. Furthermore, instead of assisting visitors with checkout and return, the library staff can now spend more time lending a hand to those researching or searching for specific works.