This month, Elko New Market residents will gain an exciting new opportunity to use their library when it works for them. On September 15, 2022, Scott County Library will launch Extended Access at the Elko New Market Library. This free library card add-on benefit allows cardholders aged 16 and older the ability to use the library outside of staffed hours for studying, reading, picking up materials, and more.
Since its launch in September 2021 at the Jordan Library, Extended Access has been popular with a broad variety of users, including remote workers, caregivers visiting with young children, and readers simply seeking more opportunities to browse and borrow items. In its first year, the Jordan Library was safely and successfully unlocked over 3000 times by 270 users.
“I really appreciated being able to do the work I wanted to do at a time convenient to me, when I was going to be near the library, and not just during open hours,” noted a Jordan Library pilot member on a user survey.
Once activated, EA members can use their Scott County Library card to unlock the Elko New Market Library from 6am to 10pm, seven days a week, including holidays. Users who previously signed up to use the service at the Jordan Library will be automatically granted access to Elko New Market and all future locations.
To sign up, cardholders may drop by any Scott County Library during staffed hours to sign an agreement and complete a few brief orientation steps with staff. (Teens aged 16 and 17 must have a parent or legal guardian present to sign the agreement on their behalf.) The Library has launched convenient onboarding videos at www.scottlib.org/EA to demonstrate how the service works once users arrive.
After signing up, users may scan their library card barcode and enter their PIN at an entry panel to unlock the library during unstaffed hours. Once inside, they can use in-library resources and self-service equipment such as the self-checkout machines, computers, printers, copiers, and study rooms.
To ensure visitors have a safe and pleasant visit, cameras are installed throughout the library to monitor activity. Extended Access members may bring guests, including children under 16, with the expectation that they accompany and supervise their guests. The Library also consulted with the Elko New Market Police Department to ensure first responders are aware of the service and can respond to safety issues.
Extended Access is part of Scott County Library’s long-term strategy to expand access to all residents. Scott County plans to expand Extended Access to all locations over the next few years using funds from the American Rescue Plan Act. Some locations may need modifications to appropriately secure staff areas and improve the overall visitor experience.