The Overcrowded Library:

A Review of Storage Solutions

Gina Shelton / LIS-651-04

Storage Issues
Overcrowding introduces access issues Limited shelf space More items purchased than deselected Libraries serve multiple functions
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Solutions
Deselection Renovations, additions, or a new building Digitization Movable Aisle Compact Storage Off-site storage Automated Storage & Retrieval System
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Compact Shelving

Movable shelves Ride on rails on oor Manual or electric

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Compact Shelving
PROS
Maximizes oor space Store entire collections in one space

CONS
Weight bearing issues

Cost

Off-site storage
Library rents or purchases space in offsite facility Materials shelved by size, not call number Patrons request materials via OPAC Materials delivered 1-2 days later
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Off-site storage
Selection criteria for storage Infrequently circulated items Items less-likely to be browsed Rare, fragile or high-security items Items with physical or electronic duplicates

Off-site storage
PROS Reduces storage space in library High success rate of retrieval Temperature & humidity control Least expensive solution Intellectual collaboration
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Off-site storage
CONS Eliminates browsability Delayed access Splits collections

Automated Storage & Retrieval System

ASRS built in the library Utilizes robotic cranes to retrieve materials Items are barcoded and shelved in bins according to size

http://news.lib.uchicago.edu/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/ASRS.jpg
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How does ASRS work?

Example from Santa Clara University

Patron submits request

Robot receives request

Robot nds bin

Item delivered to circulation desk

Staff removes item from bin

Bin delivered to staff work station

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ASRS
PROS Reduces storage space in library High success rate of retrieval Temperature & humidity control Short retrieval time Pick-up at patrons convenience

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ASRS
CONS Eliminates browsability Splits collections Technical issues and power outages Risk of investing in unfamiliar technology

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Discussion
How does off-site storage and ASRS affect patrons access to information? Will lack of browsability decrease use? How will libraries deal with selection issues? What do these storage solutions say about trends in library spaces?

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References
Boss, R. (n.d.). Automated Storage/Retrieval and Return/Sorting Systems. Retrieved from: http://www.ala.org/ala//mgrps/divs/pla/plapublications/platechnotes/ automatedrev.pdf Hazen, D. C. (2000). Selecting for storage: local problems, local responses, and an emerging common challenge. Library Resources & Technical Services, 44(4), 176-183. McLaren, M. (2004). Current library collection storage models. Kentucky Libraries, 68(1), 15-20. Shill, H.B., & Toner, S. (2004). Does the building still matter? Usage patterns in new, expanded, and renovated libraries, 1995-2002. College & Research Libraries, 65(2), 123-50. Siems, E., Demmers, L., & Dean, E. (2004). Library collection storage. Libris Design Project. Retrieved from: http://www.librisdesign.org/docs/ LibraryCollectionStorage.pdf Shirato, L., Cogan, S., & Yee, S. G. (2001). The impact of an automated storage and retrieval system on public services. Reference Services Review, 29(3), 253-261.
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Questions?

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