The Southwest Regional Library inherited a larger patron load due to the Ridglea Branch’s closing for renovations.

The Southwest Regional Library introduced self-serve checkout machines two years ago to help keep a steady pace of service.

“It was my first time using it [self-serve checkout machine] today, but it was pretty simple,” said Mike Crockett, a library patron. “I chose this because there was a ginormous line.”

The self-serve checkouts allow patrons to check out their books at their own convenience without the help of a clerk.

“We haven’t done any tracking of numbers, but I think more people go through the regular lines because of their experience with grocery stores and to talk to a clerk,” Assistant Manager Donna Kruse said.

The same rules apply to the self serve checkouts like the regular clerk check out lanes.

“I think they’re awesome,” said Dillon Reynolds, a library patron . “The fact that I don’t have to wait in line and taking out the binding myself cuts out a lot of small talk. Most people are in a rush. I’ve never had a problem using them.”

With rapid changes in technology, the library continues to progress over time and plans to replace the self-serve machines with similar ones.

“Everything in the library is run off a computer system or some sort of technology,” Kruse said. “We have had some technology hang ups, but we are moving towards a new system which will require new self check out machines.”