Implementing a 24/7 Self-Service Course Reserves Cabinet

Abstract

To make class-related print texts more accessible for our students, the Health Sciences Library at Columbia University implemented a self-service Course Reserves Cabinet. We installed a LibCabinet from the company PV Supa and designed it to work like a self-checkout machine with shorter loan periods for items. We promoted the new service via faculty emails, signage, and in-person demonstrations. Instructions on how to use the Cabinet were also placed on the machine and students quickly adapted to using it. However, we found that arranging the material in traditional ways (call number or course code) caused confusion for users trying to locate material. Usage statistics indicate the same level of course reserves use as previous semesters.