Self-service library
You can visit the self-service library independently outside customer service hours. You can use the self-check kiosk to borrow, return and view your own records. You can read magazines, use the patron computer and spend time in the library. Staff are not available during self-service hours. You cannot pay fees or print.
Logging in to self-service library
During self-service hours, you can enter the library with a valid library card and a PIN code. On the left side of the main entrance is a log-in unit with a barcode reader, where the library card is used with the barcode facing upwards and the PIN is entered. Each customer must log in with their own library card and PIN code. Self-check-in is not possible if the customer’s library card is not authorised for borrowing.
Children under 15 can come to the library with their guardian. The guardian is responsible for the behaviour of all minors brought into the library. If a patron under the age of 15 wishes to have access to the self-access library, the guardian must apply in writing. In such cases, the parent or guardian must visit the library in person and provide proof of identity. The guardian must familiarise him/herself and the children with the library’s facilities and security before the children use the facilities on their own.
Checking out with a self-check kiosk
During self-service time, the material is check out with a self-check kiosk. Select the “Borrow” option in the automatic system. The kiosk will ask you to display the barcode on your library card and then enter the PIN code attached to it. You can then start checking out. The barcode to read is on the back cover of the books. In this case, the book is placed with the back cover facing upwards under the barcode reader. Watch the screen for a new line for each loan. Finally, click Done, and you can take a receipt if you wish.
Pick up reservations
When the reservation arrives for pick-up, you will receive a pick-up notification in the chosen way. The message will contain the reservation number, which will be used to find the reservation on the shelf. Each customer has a unique reservation number and it remains the same. The reservation is retrieved from the reservation shelf and checked out with the self-check kiosk.
A material booked by another customer cannot be borrowed on his/her own card. If another customer tries to borrow a reservation from the kiosk, the it will ask you to contact the staff.
Returning loans
If you are unable to log in to the self-service library, you can return your loan through the return hatch on the left side of the main entrance.
You do not need a library card to return your loan at the kiosk. Select the “Return” option on the screen. Then read the barcode of the material into the reader as you would when checking out. The barcode to be read is on the back cover of the books. In this case, the book is placed with the back cover facing up under the barcode reader.
Follow the instructions on the screen and sort the return as instructed, either in the box between the kiosks or in the return shelf to the right of the machines. A new line will appear for each return as it is successfully returned. If you return materials too quickly, all returns will not be recorded in the system and will remain on loan to the customer.
At the end of the self-service time
In the library, announcements are made about the start and end of the self-service period and the presence of staff. At the end of the library’s opening hours, patrons must leave the library immediately, as the library’s burglar alarm system is activated. If the customer remains in the room, an alarm will be triggered, for which the municipality of Sotkamo will charge the customer according to the costs incurred. The library has a security guard service.