Book kiosk in Ottawa, Ontario
Photograph by: Chris Mikula, The Ottawa Citizen
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The Toronto Public Library has long been feeding minds with educational programs and exciting initiatives that foster literacy.
Today it was announced that the TPL is considering following in the footsteps of the Ottawa Public Library by acquiring an innovative kiosk whereby readers can borrow books during their daily commute.
The proposed addition of one of these automated kiosks at Toronto’s Union Station is an exciting step for the book-loving public of Toronto.
With an active literary scene, and the proven popularity year after year of Toronto’s Word on the Street Festival, there is an obvious market for a on-the-go kiosk that would allow readers to borrow books anytime, anywhere.
Similar to pop & chip machines, these kiosks offer up paperbacks instead of snacks, and instead provide nourishment for the mind.
With the popularity of ebooks and ereaders continually on the rise, this initiative is a great chance to remind readers of the joy of picking out the latest new literary release or a cherished classic printed on honest-to-goodness paper.
With many European and U.S. cities already adopting these types of vending machines, and the Ottawa machines an overwhelming hit since their introduction in April, the Toronto Public Library would be providing a service that further supports their mandate to provide access to millions of books, magazines, CD's and other materials.
Your Opinion Matters
What are your thoughts about vending machines that deliver books to the public?
- Have you tried one of these machines before?
- Would you borrow a book from a kiosk?
- Do you think these types of kiosks would be a benefit or detriment to the local library scene?
Share your thoughts in the comments section!
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Comments
What a cool idea! Luckily I live pretty near the local library but if I didn't It would be great to have something like this.. nice job.
That's pretty neat! I also live close to the library but TPL stocked the kiosks with extra copies of whatever the hot books are at the time (the ones that have like, 1000 holds on them), I'd defnitely use it.
Book kiosks are such a cool idea. I envy you for getting them. I hope they catch on, especially with areas that have good public transportation.
Mary, I vote yes on this one. A great idea!
great idea, love to read and this makes it easier.
luv it!
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