Noosa Shire residents can now borrow books from a vending machine as part of a push to provide easier access to library resources.
One book-vending kiosk has been stalled at the Peregian Beach Community House with 200 titles to choose from.
A second will be ready in the next few months at Pomona.
Borrowers can browse and make their selection via a touchscreen which guides them through the borrowing and returns process.
Libraries and Galleries Manager, Tracey King, said council’s aim was to extend library services beyond the Noosaville and Cooroy Library branches.
“The kiosks are part of our new outreach/community-based library service to provide easier and improved access to library items,” she said.
“Library members can view the items available to borrow through the kiosk’s cabinet door, swipe their membership card to open the door, take the items they want and the door automatically closes.
“The system works in reverse when items are returned, and the kiosk is re-stocked as books are borrowed and returned to the cabinet.”
Artwork from local first nations artist and author/illustrator Gregg Dreise, is featured as part of the kiosk design.
“Gregg has written and illustrated a series of children’s books and his artwork on our library kiosks builds upon the artwork he created for our children’s membership cards. We are thrilled to be able to showcase his work on the new BookShelf kiosks,” she said.
The new library kiosk service is in addition to the weekly Mobile Library service. The new mobile library vehicle is being built, with the plan to be on the road in early 2023.
The Peregian Beach kiosk is located in the foyer at the new Peregian Beach Community House, 5-7 Rufous St, (in the new building behind the Peregian Digital Hub) and is open Monday to Wednesday, and Friday 9am to 2pm.
The Pomona BookShelf, when it opens, will be located inside the Pomona Community House.
