Blocks Automates Library Operations of the Oldest Central European Institution - Charles University

The challenge

• Opening hours
  Charles University Library has long been investigating options for extending its opening hours. The main requirement was an easy-to-use solution for the employees and students. Non-stop access was critically important to improve the learning experience, especially in the evening and on weekends.
• Safety and security
  As a safety measure, the solution had to be fully automatic, prevent the spread of germs, and be easy to use and maintain. Controlled access was also a big concern as the University puts a big emphasis on campus security.
• Integration with the library system
  The locker technology needed a seamless integration with an existing library system to streamline book reservations and automate workflows.

Requirements

• 24/7 book pickup and drop-off
• Fully automated lockers that work autonomously from personnel
• Weekend operations for combined studies or distance learning students
• Contactless solution for safe book pickup while ensuring no strangers can access the lockers and university premises

The solution

All-in-one locker technology (modular lockers + integrated system + admin console) tailored to the needs of the modern university settings.

• Non-stop dispatch of books and pick-up at any day and time.
• Contactless book pickup was especially beneficial during the pandemic. Only people with university access cards can enter the university building. Unique PINs pick up the reservations autonomously, making the environment fully controlled and safe.
• Extensive admin console to keep track of all reservations. The system provides a real-time overview of all the reservations, users, and utilization in the online admin zone. It enables easy booking management and remote locker openings if students need additional assistance.

Blocks not only met all of the requirements but also brought value-added features to the university premises.

• The sleek and beautiful modular locker design works great with the historical design of the university building.
• The solution grows with the needs. First, we started with a small pilot project. In a short time, the demand exceeded expectations, and it was decided to quickly increase the capacity to 50+ locker compartments,  now serving over 600 reservations/month.
• The seamless layer of technology that is safe and future-ready.

The innovation of smart lockers, which we initially implemented due to the pandemic, has proven to be so effective in the post-pandemic world that we have expanded the entire system, making our services more convenient for both students and the library operations team
— PhDr. Zuzana Formanova, Director of Library

How does it work?

1. Students make reservations in the online library system and connect them to their phone numbers or email.
2. The locker system automatically creates reservation requests.
3. Librarians fulfil the requests, and the system automatically notifies students that their books are ready to be collected.
4. The books can be easily collected with a PIN or QR code that comes as an SMS or Email message.