May 25, 2021
Trails Regional Library launched self checkout machines at 6 branches last week. These machines were funded in part through 2020 CARES Act funding from the Johnson County, Missouri government. The self checkouts will allow patrons a safe, contactless, and private way to check out library materials, check their accounts, and pay for lost or damaged item fees.
The self checkout machines utilize RFID tag technology, which lets users place all items on the pad without scanning individual barcodes. The benefit to providing the machines now includes increased privacy for patron selections, faster lines during the busy summer months, and reduced contact for those who are in populations more vulnerable to COVID-19.
The Warrensburg, Odessa, Lexington, Holden, Concordia, and Knob Noster branches currently have at least one self checkout machine operating. Smaller branches, including Corder, Waverly, and the Leeton Express Branch, do not have self checkout machines due to limited space.