News and insights from Lorensbergs

In today’s libraries, where demand for support often stretches available resources, ensuring staff have enough time to help customers is critical. According to the 2024 Netloan public library survey, staff already spend an average third of their time assisting customers with digital skills alone, a rate that is increasing in over 40% of authorities. With so many other user needs, finding effective time-savers and efficiencies is vital. So what are the best ways to conserve staff time and allow for more direct user support? Fortunately, the Netloan survey reveals valuable insights into the approaches libraries are finding most successful. What Works Best? The survey assesses five key approaches being used to improve staff availability. These range from technology solutions to volunteer support. Chart: Most effective approaches to increasing staff availability for customer support.Source: Netloan Public Library Survey 2024 Here’s what the data tells us about the effectiveness of each approach: 1. Easy-to-Use Admin Systems Over 80% of library authorities either strongly agree or agree that simplifying administrative systems significantly increases staff availability for customer service. Over 40% strongly agree, making this the top-rated method. “Ensuring the system is as user-friendly as possible makes it quickest to help people” Streamlined admin systems reduce the time staff spend navigating complex software, allowing them to focus on what truly matters: helping their customers. 2. Kiosk Book-Related Self-Service Self-service kiosks are another widely supported solution, with around 75% of respondents expressing agreement. These systems let users handle routine tasks like borrowing and returning books, giving staff more flexibility to support ad-hoc and more complex queries. Kiosks can also add value in other ways: “Any technology that can enhance staff efficiency and task management is advantageous… Additionally, it adds value to the library by creating opportunities to create and promote events and books in libraries” 3. Print Payment Self-Service 70% of library authorities favour self-service for print payments. While slightly behind book kiosks, this approach still shows strong support for offloading simple, repetitive tasks to technology. There’s no doubt that empowering users with clear service points and instructions for completing their own printing tasks is a sound approach to saving staff time on a frequent routine basis. “We don’t currently have print payment self-service but think this would be very effective in freeing up time for staff if it were available and easy to use” Clarity and simplicity is definitely key here though. As one library tells us: “Self Service printing is currently confusing more people, and especially with photocopying most people want to still pay cash anyway” Of course this feedback gives further food for thought – that supporting a choice of payment methods ensures self-service solutions are well adopted by patrons. 4. Volunteers to Support Digital Users The use of volunteers to assist customers with digital tasks also garners high support, with almost 70% of authorities backing the approach. Nearly 40% strongly agree, emphasising the growing importance of building patrons’ digital literacy skills as part of library services. This strategy not only improves service delivery but also strengthens community engagement. Libraries were divided in the kinds of tasks that volunteers should assist with. There is caution against a ‘hollowing out of the service’ if paid staff presence is diminished with growing reliance on volunteers. In many libraries, staff are expected to lead on digital skills support and there is much effort that goes into ongoing training for this work. However, the high score given here to volunteers’ effectiveness highlights the usefulness of having voluntary digital champions as part of resourcing. 5. Volunteers to Support Other Library Tasks This approach received the most mixed response. Only around 20% strongly agree, and over 30% actually disagree, suggesting concerns around the best ways to ensure libraries continue to provide a quality customer service. In summary, the results here see a balance between some libraries (around 40%) seeing the value in broad volunteer roles, while others (as much as 60%) being cautious about replacing professional responsibilities with unpaid help. As one library told us: “Our volunteers do more of what staff do and not job substitution” Key Takeaways The Netloan survey underscores a clear message: smart systems and thoughtful support models are key to unlocking staff time and improving customer experiences in libraries. Technology is a clear winner. From admin systems to self-service kiosks, tools that reduce staff workload are widely seen as effective. Ease of use is critical. User-friendly systems speed up staff training and reduce the friction of service delivery. Targeted use of volunteers works best. Support roles focused on digital assistance are better received than general task help. So from kiosks to easy-to-use admin systems, the findings are clear – when technology streamlines staff tasks, it creates more time to assist the people who need them most. A Final Word: Experienced Staff Still Matter Most While the approaches outlined—from streamlined admin systems to volunteer support—play a vital role in boosting staff availability, it’s worth recognising an essential truth. As one library authority noted in the survey, “Monetary investment in libraries, to include more paid experienced staff,” remains an obvious path to increasing user support. With this in mind, future success likely draws on a combined strategy: investing in skilled, trained staff equipped with the best tools to do their jobs well, supported by well-designed self-service for a modern approach to routine transactions. It’s a strong combination that sets each library authority on a sustainable path to successful service delivery. About Netloan As a library supplier of PC booking and print management solutions, we are proud of how our systems have scored in the latest annual survey: Scoring around 90% as Excellent/Very good/Good in the following areas: – Easy print management– Centralised administration– Easy group bookings– Ease of upgrades and maintenance– System reliability– Responsive support desk We remain committed to supporting our customer library authorities with effective, time-saving systems and support.

This year’s public library survey from Netloan highlights the reasons why the People’s Network of computers is relied on by users. Foremost, it offers a free-of-charge public resource, with all library authorities agreeing this is a key reason for its use. The finding illustrates the network’s important role in providing digital equity of access, with all users able to get online without cost. Often users of the People’s Network require support. Library staff give on average a third of their time to support patrons with digital skills and tasks. The library environment is also recognised as being part of the draw for PC users – a supportive, warm and safe space, where users can learn and get things done. Over 90% of authorities agreed that this was another reason why patrons chose to use library PCs. Anna Crilly, Managing Director at Netloan provider, Lorensbergs, comments: “The ready availability of combined support in our libraries – experienced staff with a network of free-to-use computers – is an essential library service and one that’s critical to a progressive society. With the growing number of services and job vacancies accessible only online, many would be lost without the support libraries provide.” Authorities are well organised to provide the computer access their community needs, with many Council IT departments planning ahead and attentive to keeping library PCs on a supported operating system (OS). In 2025-26 alone, 40% of councils are investing in the People’s Network infrastructure as support for the Windows 10 OS comes to an end in October. With the importance of staff time for providing digital support, technology is proving effective in helping increase their availability. Over 80% of authorities agree admin systems’ ease of use plays a role. Over 70% agreed self-service options help too, including support for printing. Crilly adds: “Printing is constant or increasing in 90% of libraries. It’s already a top reason for PC use. Print volumes are being boosted as more users print from own devices too. We are excited to support more customer libraries each year with our self-service wireless print solution.” The full survey findings are available on Lorensbergs’ website here.

2025 is an important year of collaboration for libraries and their IT teams. Not least, Windows 10 support ends this October: for many authorities, the need to change operating system will involve extensive PC refresh projects across their library sites. The opportunity this presents is much greater than simply updating the computer hardware for public use. With the right IT support, libraries can explore how they might develop the underlying library offer, how they might advance digital access and skills development overall. Can they do it better? Can they be more ambitious in who they help and with what tasks or skills? There’s lots to consider here… What size screens are best? What software should be included? How should PCs be organised throughout the library space? What are the accessibility needs? It’s up to libraries to deliver the People’s Network their communities really need, and to work with IT colleagues to achieve it. IT teams supporting the PC refresh will not automatically know the best answers to these questions. Libraries need to guide them, to impress on them what’s important and why. So here’s an 8-point list for a better way of working. It’s based on soundings and examples from over 30 library authorities as customers of Netloan PC booking. See how many you can incorporate into your library-IT working relationship. The more you include, the greater the communication flow and understanding between team members, and this will ultimately translate into better library services. 8 steps to better library/IT team working: Know the difference: Make sure you can explain the differences in requirements between public access and staff PCs. Libraries’ IT counterparts are likely to be supporting other departments and corporate staff PCs generally, and won’t automatically understand this distinction. More background information is available to help you here. Security first! Be security-minded and understand the importance of this from an IT perspective. Many IT projects are motivated by security concerns due to growing risks and threats. PC refresh projects are an important example here, with the need to upgrade Windows 10 before it moves out of support Nurture your relationship: Library staff who have built up a relationship with their IT teams are more likely to be consulted about PC refresh and hardware requirements, and have issues resolved generally. Here are some key pointers:– Hold regular meetings, e.g. once a month, or definitely at least once per quarter– Relationship building can take time, so persevere and continue to allow for staff changes – Encourage new staff to visit the respective team in person to start the relationship on a strong footing– Make sure IT staff spend time in the library, e.g. invite them to shadow library staff; invite them to library events; encourage them to speak with library customers, especially PC users– Likewise, IT should invite library staff into their department for appreciation of their work processes Be inclusive: Include both direct counterparts and more senior staff in relationship building. Senior managers are more likely to be the ones making decisions on PC spec and image, so it’s important you get to know each other too Round out their knowledge: Make sure IT colleagues understand library systems in use, how PCs and printers are connected to the PC booking system, and how users authenticate (Lorensbergs’ support desk can help here). Arrange for IT to have a test library PC; invite them to Netloan account meetings and user groups, and encourage them to access Lorensbergs’ support desk. Include IT teams in Council internal library communications and advocacy too Communicate impact on public: Make sure each IT support call includes this information so it’s triaged effectively. The principle also applies to each new project specification. After all, libraries are the public face of the local council and a poor patron experience reflects more widely than on the library alone All systems go: It’s worth reviewing and refining the support ticket raising process to check it’s adequate in covering all required systems, that it’s jargon-free and that library staff are prompted to pass on all relevant information for getting issues resolved Point of contact: Ask for a regular point of contact in IT – someone who can build up knowledge of library systems. Ideally, an IT-based account manager or business support/relationship manager are best placed to triage issues, raise them with the right system specialists and champion library IT projects. We’ve seen examples of some fantastic working relationships here which can take library services to a new level! In fact once established, this relationship becomes indispensable, so make sure you push for this one thing above all else. Put as many of these pointers into action and see the benefits really pay off. There’s massive opportunity to collaborate more closely and get a new and improved People’s Network. It represents vital social infrastructure – computers that make the difference between enabling significant numbers to get online and learn new skills, or being completely digitally excluded. So it’s essential you work together to get it right. As always, the Netloan team will be here to help along the way.

In this blog we catch up with Sinéad Beverland, BFI Replay Engagement Officer from the British Film Institute. Sinéad describes how the BFI Replay service has brought a valuable new resource to public libraries, and explores how our customer libraries are putting it to good use. Available exclusively in UK public libraries, BFI Replay is a free digital archive hosting thousands of digitised videos and television programmes from the BFI National Archive and partner UK Regions and Nations Film Archives (RNAs). Currently there are 2140 library sites across 106 authorities registered for Replay, and most recently we warmly welcomed Calderdale, Leeds, East Sussex, and Northumberland libraries into the fold! With content stretching from the late 1960’s to the early 2000’s, you will discover video collections such as ‘The way we were’, ‘How we shopped’ and ‘TV on TV’. There are also a number of regional collections highlighting moments that are closer to home. Curated into 120 collections, there are 10,898 videos to browse and watch, but we’re not stopping there! As well as a monthly changing ‘Recently Added’ selection, the BFI Curatorial team continue to add new collections. Recent examples include ‘What we ate’ which gives a flavour of how our appetites and palates have transformed over the years, and ‘Not just kids stuff: grown up animation’, showcasing unique stories and creativity. So there’s always something new for your customers to explore in the archive when visiting your library. It’s important libraries are making the most of this amazing resource so BFI provides extra support here. Alongside promotional material and Welcome Guides, there are BFI Replay Activity Packs, co-created with RNAs and focusing on varied themes such as ‘Pioneering Women’ & ‘Celebrating Annual Events’. Left: BFI Replay promotion in a local library It’s been fantastic to see so many libraries sharing the platform with their visitors and highlighting it within community and school groups. Library staff have told us how successful Replay has been in complementing their activities, particularly around history and digital skills. It’s proving to be a wonderful conversation starter with library groups, with some referring to Replay as a reminiscence jukebox! As we work to create new supporting resources and events, we would love to reach more libraries so that communities throughout the UK can gain access to our shared screen history. If you’re a library that would like to offer BFI Replay to your library visitors, please drop us an email at replay@bfi.org.uk

Printing in public libraries is both essential and popular. As a public service that so many rely on, it’s long been a serious success story. Adding the ability to print from any device and from anywhere, library printing remains both modern and ubiquitous – very often the only public printing service available in our town and city centres not to mention our more rural areas. With a service that is so essential to so many, how it’s priced is incredibly important. In late 2021, Lorensbergs rounded up price information from all UK library authorities and circulated some key benchmark data. We’re delighted our research proved so useful. So three years later, we’ve done it again. This time we’re including insights into how prices have moved in the interim, to see how libraries have responded to both inflation and the cost of living crisis. 70% of libraries review their print prices annually and 20% review them every 2-3 years[1] – so this latest research will be timely for most services. Price of printing in libraries Firstly, let’s take a look at what the latest price data tells us. Here are the key stats: A4 – Black & White 2024A4 – Colour 2024Average: 19.3pAverage: 60.9pMost common: 20pMost common: 50pHighest: 40pHighest: 185pLowest: 10pLowest: 10p A3 – Black & White 2024A3 – Colour 2024Average: 35.4pAverage: 107.8pMost common: 30pMost common: 100pHighest: 110pHighest: 300pLowest: 10pLowest: 20p N.B. Price data excludes libraries not charging for printing or requesting donations only. A more detailed analysis is also available here. If it’s useful to refer back to our 2021 study, that’s also available here. So how do these 2024 prices compare to UK rates of inflation over the last 3 years? According to the Bank of England and the CPI index, prices of UK goods and services since 2021 have increased by 20%. Meanwhile, the average black and white A4 print cost has increased by 18%. So not too far off the official rate. Examining the detail of library print fees shows variations in approach though. We can see that over half of libraries have made no increase in this printing cost at all. 2 have actually decreased the cost. However, 90 authorities (i.e. over 40%) have increased it by an average 50%. For colour A4 printing, it’s a similar story with just under half keeping prices constant. 8 libraries decreased their price by nearly 50%. At the same time, 83 libraries have increased prices by an average 46%. Notably one library raised their price by 640% hiking it up from 25p to £1.85. Setting the right price As a sector, although often cash-strapped, libraries have widely exercised a lot of restraint during recent price reviews. Nearly half of services have kept their A4 print prices steady (both B&W and colour). You could say that it’s yet another way libraries have provided vital support during the cost of living crisis, i.e. on top of the usual free books, PCs, Wi-Fi etc. No doubt when reviewing their prices, libraries are in a quandary about what to do for the best. With huge funding cuts affecting many and so many of them going fine free, print revenue becomes all the more important. It’s a substantial amount, with a medium sized library authority easily printing out 2-300,000 pages a year, and larger ones reaching as many as a million. This puts print revenue in the tens or hundreds of thousands of pounds. So it’s critical the price is set at the right point – one that boosts much needed revenue while continuing to be affordable to patrons. It’s also worth noting that a lower priced printing service can result in a greater volume of prints. A comparison between two library authorities helps illustrate the point here. In this example two London authorities of similar size are using very different pricing, with one charging almost twice more than the other. The cheaper authority produces far more prints, and generates over 40% more revenue. Considerations beyond price Price is a key factor in maintaining a thriving print service, but of course there are other considerations. Format: Availability of wireless printing from own devices has grown both in patron expectation and print volumes. It’s one that our own customers are confident to promote and encourage patrons to use. Netloan Wi-Fi print is responsible for as much as half of total printouts in a library, often largely adding to the existing print volume from desktop PCs, rather than diverting from them – see our case studies from Neath Port Talbot and Cardiff Libraries. Around 60% of libraries now offer a means to print from own devices. Method: Another consideration is ease of use – make sure the print method is intuitive. The steps needs to be clear and easy to achieve, for example, you don’t want own-device users to be hampered by the need to download yet another app if their device is low on memory. Another example here involves printing from home. Better to enable payment at point of collection than put users off by requesting payment in advance. After all, plans so often change. Paying on arrival at the library for the jobs you need is a much more appealing option, especially where opening hours are limited. Ease of payment: Make it clear and easy for users to pay and collect their jobs. Library users like the privacy of self-service printing, understandably as it so often involves personal and sensitive documents. Users benefit from a familiar yet discreet release process without the need to engage staff or wait for them to be free. Frontline staff will thank you here too. As many as half of all queries can be about printing. We modestly estimate 25+ hours being spent on print transactions every month in an average sized library branch. With staffing becoming ever more constrained, self-service is key. Utilising library self-checkout kiosks is a highly effective way to move patrons to a self-service print solution, and one that continues to be popular amongst our customer libraries and their users. As a highly visible and familiar service point, it shows quick take up by users. Inclusivity: Finally, remember that self-service can support a vital choice in payment method as part of the convenience it offers. While supporting cash payments isn’t essential, it definitely helps preserve library inclusivity. Both children and the unbanked are just as much in need of a public printing service as anyone else. Even those with bank cards may still only wish to pay with cash. It’s a more effective way of budgeting for many people, with a far stronger preference to use pocket change than tap their bank accounts. This is likely to be more the case for those low on funds and it’s worth reiterating here, from past Netloan customer survey results, CVs are the most commonly printed items in libraries with print services considered absolutely essential for jobseekers. In conclusion We hope this latest price data provides useful guidance when carrying out your next price review. At the same time we encourage you to weigh up how else you can improve your service and optimise access and volume, taking into account the extra points above. As always, we’ll be happy to discuss the subject further – simply get in touch with your Netloan account manager. [1] Public Libraries 2023: Netloan Customer Survey Results – Lorensbergs  

Providing public access PCs and related services in the library requires IT partnering and support. The closer the collaboration between libraries and IT, the better. In a focus group earlier this month we brought together 10 authorities to discuss this relationship. We covered a lot of challenges and solutions for better ways of working. But what we heard loudest was this: the better and more frequent the communication between IT and library teams, the stronger the relationship. While this is hardly surprising, it’s also something that’s definitely worth exploring when it leads to such positive results. A relationship developed through more frequent communication means day-to-day technical issues are more easily resolved. Not only does this save precious time, it means there is less interruption in library services and a better experience for customers using the library. Good communication channels leads to better knowledge of each respective team’s systems, processes and areas of expertise. Each has better understanding of each other’s needs and the significance of the services provided. Then when it comes to the bigger projects – say a PC refresh or library refurb – you’re on a much stronger footing. You can work together to deliver a People’s Network that is what the library truly envisions – one that continues to meet diverse user need, supports library ambitions, and potentially exceeds expectations for a modern, desirable service. Communication can take the form of regular meetings. It can also be as simple as having tours and time spent in the other team’s department. It could be something that happens as a matter of routine with each new starter. There are these and many other ideas in our focus group summary which is available to read here: People’s Network Focus Group: Working with IT We hope you enjoy reading these findings and encourage you to share them with both your library and IT colleagues! There will also be opportunity for Netloan customer libraries to participate further, with a ‘part two’ discussion forming part of the annual user group next month – more details to follow soon!

With National Poetry Day taking place this week (Thursday 3 October), what better way to mark the occasion than with a poem about libraries? This poem is by Nigel Braggins, a poet local to Lorensbergs here in Hertford. Please see link below for more examples of Nigel’s work. LIBRARY A Rhyme of our Time poem by Nigel Braggins There’s a lady in the library but she isn’t there to read, a little human kindness fulfils a daily need. Toddlers hearing tales and joining in with rhymes, borrowers returning and a couple paying fines. Someone else is climbing their family tree, computers and scanners for everybody – free. “Do you have a book, it’s the one about a cat, and another one perhaps on this, or that?” A student with a laptop diligently crams. The clock it is ticking, down the time for exams. Magazines and papers, a safe, warm space. Digital inclusion with a friendly face. Often all it takes is a listening ear. The kindness of strangers, a Home Volunteer. It is obvious to see for anyone who looks – it is so much more than a place full of books. There are many events taking place this week in libraries to mark National Poetry Day. You can check out what’s on by going to the Forward Arts Foundation website. With thanks to Nigel for kindly agreeing for us to include the poem here on our website.

Who hasn’t heard of podcasts? They have quickly grown to become a familiar form of audio content, providing listeners with a wide range of information and entertainment. Such is their popularity, they even have the potential to become more commonplace than traditional interviews. For their creators, podcasts offer a means to share their thoughts with a community. At present, they have over 500 million listeners worldwide daily, a number that continues to grow. As such a fast-growing way of disseminating information, it’s not surprising that libraries are getting on board. Libraries are expanding their role as community hubs, offering a wide range of services and resources beyond just books. Podcasting facilities in libraries are already showing signs of playing a significant role in this evolution. From our survey this month representing nearly 40 library authorities, over 70% agreed that podcasting facilities should be available as part of a ‘Next Gen’ People’s Network in libraries. By offering podcasting equipment and support, libraries can provide a platform for community members to share their stories, ideas, and knowledge. This not only enriches the local culture but also creates a sense of community. Libraries can host podcasting workshops, invite local podcasters for talks, or even start their own library-themed podcasts (e.g. read more here about Bury Libraries’ amazing podcast series). It’s easier than you might think to begin an initiative like this in your library. In this article, you will find out the tips and tricks on how to start a podcasting programme. We’ll cover the tools you will need, approaches to staff resourcing and training, and most importantly, how to get it all to work – with some invaluable insights from our South Lanarkshire Libraries case study. >> Jump to South Lanarkshire case study >> Jump to podcasting equipment options shortlist Equipment and Software for Podcasting To facilitate podcasting, libraries need some basic equipment and software. Here’s a list of essentials, starting with the hardware: Microphones: A good quality microphone is crucial for clear audio. USB microphones are a good choice for beginners due to their ease of use and affordability Headphones: Closed back headphones are recommended for monitoring audio while recording Pop Filters: These are used with mics to help reduce plosive sounds that can cause distortion in the audio Audio Interface: This device converts the analogue signal from the microphone into a digital signal that the computer can process Boom Arms and Shock Mounts: Depending on your set up, these can be used to hold the microphone in place and reduce noise from movement and vibrations A list of suggested hardware options is provided at the end of the article. Now for the software: Recording Software: Also known as digital audio workstations (DAWs), these programs allow you to record and edit your podcast. Examples include Audacity (free), GarageBand (free for Mac users), and Adobe Audition. Hosting Platform: Once the podcast is recorded and edited, it needs to be uploaded to a podcast hosting platform. Examples include Libsyn, Podbean, and SoundCloud. Although podcasts have originated as a form of audio content, video podcasts have been increasingly popular over the past few years and continue to grow their audience. If you decide to explore providing the facilities for video podcasts, the equipment and software for this will be covered at the end of the article. Making it Work: Tips for Successful Podcasting in Libraries Here are our top tips to make podcasting work in your library: Getting started: Find out which staff members are enthusiastic and interested in podcasting. A casual hobbyist can easily apply their knowledge and drive your library’s own podcasting programme (read more from South Lanarkshire below!) Training: Provide training for library staff and community members on how to use the podcasting equipment and software – it’s more straightforward than you might think Promotion: Use the library’s website, social media, and other channels to promote the podcasting facilities and the podcasts created there Collaboration: Collaborate with local schools, colleges, and community groups to create podcasts Content Creation: Consider creating a library podcast that features book reviews, author interviews, and highlights from library events Podcasting in libraries is a promising trend that can bring numerous benefits. By tackling this growing niche, libraries can become even more vibrant and essential parts of their communities. A successful execution example is South Lanarkshire libraries. They provide all the equipment to their community to successfully create podcasts and even have their own dedicated platform where users can upload their creations. The South Lanarkshire ‘Lending Voices’ programme includes workshops, training sessions and creator spaces. You can listen to some of their podcasts here. Spotlight on South Lanarkshire While carrying out our research for this article, we connected with South Lanarkshire Libraries to find out more about their podcasting initiative which recently got off the ground and is already proving its success. Here is the short story of how this project has developed so far: South Lanarkshire Libraries initiated a podcasting project to maintain community engagement during the COVID-19 lockdown. The Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC) provided media kits to libraries, which were used for creative engagement. The library’s initial engagement began during the Summer Reading Challenge, where local children served as community ambassadors. The library organised a podcasting session as a reward, which led to high engagement and a partnership with a local primary school. The library secured funding from the Public Libraries Improvement Fund (PLIF) via SLIC to expand the initiative. They acquired two portable podcasting kits, allowing for flexible and user-friendly recording in any branch. The project officially launched with plans for pop-up sessions in all 23 libraries. Early collaborations, such as with Lanark Grammar School, demonstrated the educational potential of providing the podcasting kits. How to get podcasting with South Lanarkshire Libraries Community members can book the equipment through a dedicated email account and webpage. They can be booked to be used in any library, providing an instant podcasting studio. Simple colour-coded equipment makes it accessible for novice users with minimal staff involvement. South Lanarkshire Libraries take their portable kit to the local Older People’s Assembly and help them produce their first podcast. The equipment takes up little space and works even in noisy environments so in theory you can podcast anywhere!  Future plans include showcasing the kits at community events and collaborations with various organisations. Just recently, South Lanarkshire has visited the Older People’s Assembly to show the equipment and spark enthusiasm from older generations. This together with the local school partnership has yielded four new podcast episodes, soon to be uploaded for all to access and listen in. As the project gains momentum, the library anticipates diverse use cases and collaborations. Despite the eventual end of SLIC funding, the podcasting project is set to become an integrated part of the library’s services, with plans to explore video podcasting in the future. South Lanarkshire currently has two Rodecaster Pro II setups, each with 4 microphones and headsets, and a laptop for recording, editing, and publishing (see below for more info on hardware options). Their key tip for running a successful podcasting operation is finding that one enthusiastic person that is keen on learning the skills needed, provide him/her with time and space and the results will follow.  Staff engagement and promotion efforts have been crucial to the project’s success at South Lanarkshire. Ideas and plans for the future at South Lanarkshire – Take the kit to public places with good crowds to demonstrate its capabilities and raise awareness. Regular use and frequent uploads will keep it attractive and engaging – Attend community events with kids to encourage participation and inform attendees about the technology and its availability for anyone interested – Share valuable resources from recent recorded sessions with the community – Arrange for kids to interview visiting speakers or authors, creating unique and engaging content – Explore potential future collaborations with notable professionals or organizations – Develop initiatives with charities that have expressed interest in partnering – Help community organizations by amplifying their stories to reach a broader audience – Utilize the kit for local history projects, enhancing the quality of recordings and making traditionally ‘dry’ subjects more appealing. Ideas include: > Creating pop-up events for families to record conversations between kids and older relatives, producing an audio time capsule > Continuously brainstorming new ways to capture and share local history in engaging formats We would like to thank Iain Robertson, Digital & Information Services Officer and Dave Young, Children’s Digital Assistant Librarian, for providing insights into their operations. We wish them all the best in their library podcasting endeavours! Equipment shortlist Here is a short list of equipment that we think would be a great fit for beginning a podcasting programme: TypeFeaturesPriceMics Audio-Technica AT2020  Sennheiser USB-C microphone with cardioid condenser capsule Shure MV7  Cardioid mic, lightweight, affordable and great quality  Cardioid mic, adjustable tilt function, professional quality  USB and XLR outputs for use with computers and professional interfaces alike. Cardioid pattern.  £89  £100    £285Production / recording hardware Maono PS22 Audio Interface   Zoom PodTrak™ P4  RØDECaster Pro   Two mic inputs, compliant with a wide range of mics, connects to USB and phones for great flexibility  Four mic inputs, gain control knobs and mute buttons for each input. Up to three hours of use with just two AA batteries or a USB power supply  Four microphone inputs, intuitive controls via a large full-colour touchscreen, automatic level setting   £95  £155   £435Headphones Audio Technica ATH-M20x   Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones  Quality audio reproduction and effective sound isolation. An affordable option from a solid brand  High end noise cancelling tech to keep out high and mid frequency sounds  £50  £299 Video podcasting equipment and hardware Looking to progress from audio podcasting by adding a video element? Here’s what you’ll need… The audio equipment will be the same, however you will of course need to add a camera. Luckily, there is a large market and plenty of choices. If you aim to run a single presenter podcast, you could even get away with a webcam such as Logitech Brio 100. This webcam will fulfil the basic needs and is great to practice your video editing. For a more professional touch, our recommendation is Sony ZV-1F. They retail for about £549 and they will provide all the functionality you need to produce a high quality podcast. This camera comes with an ultra-wide angle 20mm lens as standard and is able to shoot in 4K Ultra HD all while being compact and easy to operate. For better flexibility, consider getting a tripod for the camera. Video Editing Software: your users will require a montage software to get audio tracks and video tracks aligned, as well as clip and compile together all video fragments. Advanced users can use Sony Vegas Pro, Adobe Premier Pro, however, there are also a lot of simpler options available for beginners such as Canva, Clipchamp or Movavi. Conclusion So as you can see, podcasting offers libraries a dynamic way to enhance their role as community hubs. By providing podcasting facilities, libraries empower community members to share stories and knowledge. Successful examples, such as South Lanarkshire, demonstrate the potential of podcasting to boost engagement and educational opportunities. Equipping libraries with essential tools and related training can be a creative catalyst that appeals to generations alike. As libraries embrace podcasting, they stay relevant in the digital age, creating new opportunities for creativity, education, and community building.

Libraries are essential places of learning and information, so it’s important they are accessible to everyone. This involves considering what library PC users with visual impairments and other special needs might need. In this article, we’ll explore practical strategies and technologies that libraries can implement to improve PC accessibility for these users. From inclusive design principles to assistive technologies, we will investigate the ways libraries can ensure that all patrons have equal access to the wealth of resources their computers offer. We have compiled a list of software and hardware for options and ideas, plus there’s a list of examples of approaches being taken by a number of libraries. Also, we recommend you check out this RNIB (Royal National Institute of Blind People) guide on making devices more functional for visually impaired users: Home computers and accessories for blind and partially sighted people | RNIB For Netloan customer libraries, we encourage you to get in touch with your account manager for our guide on how Netloan supports a more accessible library environment, which includes more detailed advice. Software to address accessibility needs A good place to start is by looking at the accessibility features built into Microsoft Windows. You may be surprised by the range of features already available that are really worth exploring. Here is a list of tools that your Windows PCs already have: Windows Narrator Narrator is a screen reader in Microsoft Windows, the utility makes Windows operating system more accessible for blind and visually impaired users. Windows Magnifier This is a Microsoft magnifier app intended for visually impaired people. Once running, it creates a bar at the top of the screen that magnifies where the mouse is. Magnifier has capabilities of zooming in at 1600%. High Contrast mode Changes the colour scheme of the Windows interface to make it easier to distinguish between different visual elements. Speech Recognition Allows you to control your device with your voice. It captures speech inputs through the microphone and processes those words into text or commands. You can read more about the Microsoft tools for visually impaired people here:The Best Windows 11 Features for the Visually Impaired | Windows Learning Center (microsoft.com) Microsoft features will save you money and time from installing third-party software since they are already built in. However, it is still worth considering third-party software for the additional functionalities they provide. Here is a list of third-party software to consider: NVDA Software Link: www.nvaccess.org/download/ NVDA Software is a portable screen reader for Microsoft Windows. A project launched in 2006, it continues to this day as a registered charity. NVDA provides a free, open source, globally accessible screenreader to address blind people’ accessibility needs worldwide. It’s already in use by some libraries including Netloan customers, Surrey Libraries (please see example below), and Gloucestershire Libraries. This software can be pre-installed on your library PCs and run as a service, which means it will be available straight away, even before the user logs in via Netloan. In this way, it supports users right from the start of their session, including assisting them with the log-in process. Serotek System Access Link: www.satogo.com Serotek System Access is a downloadable screen reader that can be used across the system, not just the browser. Just like NVDA, this screen reader is free and can be run as a service, hence will be available as soon as you turn on the PC. Serotek offers extended versions for a fee, although it is much cheaper than other screen readers. JAWS Link: www.support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/JAWS JAWS is considered to be the most popular screen reader software. JAWS is quite pricey, however it does provide a lot more features compared to the free alternatives. License price varies between £735 to £865. The name stands for Job Access with Speech with the software being very customisable, full of features to support visually impaired users. Dolphin SuperNova Magnifier Link: www.visionaid.co.uk/supernova-magnifier SuperNova is designed for people with some sight. Take a look at our examples below for details on some of the public libraries making use of the solution. With this software you will be able to either magnify the entire screen or split the screen in two, with one part being zoomed-in and the other keeping its original size for easier screen navigation. Magnification varies between 1.2 times to 64 times with you controlling it with either the keyboard or the mouse scroll button. SuperNova offers a wide range of customizing tools such as changing the colours on the screen to make text stand out. The price for a SuperNova Magnifier license is £425. However, with Software Maintenance Agreement for Organisations you would be looking for an additional £100 charge totalling £525. Dolphin also offers an extended package of SuperNova Magnifier and Screen Reader which includes all the magnifier features and provides a fully supported screen reader solution. This package costs £1,135. Zoom Text Link: www.freedomscientific.com/products/software/zoomtext Yet another software from FreedomScientific (Developers of JAWS). ZoomText is a fully integrated magnification and reading program tailored for low-vision users. It is worth noting that different licenses are available, where some licenses include the screen reader and others don’t. ZoomText Magnifier provides a magnification up to 60 times. You would be looking at spending $800 (£648 at the time of writing) for both Magnifier and Reader license and $575 (£465 at the time of writing) for Magnifier-only license per 3 PCs. Hardware to address accessibility needs Geemarc standard keyboard Link: Standard KEYBOARD – Yellow – Geemarc UK Geemarc specialises in products for people with visual impairments. This keyboard is an affordable option that provides enlarged letters on the keyboard highlighted by black on yellow design. This keyboard would be a great standard alternative, although it does not provide braille on its buttons. Braille stickers Available from various suppliers, this could potentially be an affordable option for improving accessibility for blind users. Braille stickers can be applied to the keyboards you already have on top of the buttons. Since there isn’t a standardised manufacturer for these, our suggestion would be to take an initial look on Amazon for potential sources. Headphones The headphone market is so diverse that there is never one opinion on which headset to choose. Within this article we won’t be recommending a specific headset to purchase, however here are some tips on how to choose the right one for your library: Make sure the headset is a reasonable size and earpads are covering the entire ear For sanitation purposes, see which material the earpads are made of, there has to be a right balance between comfort and ease of cleaning. Ideally the earpads should be covered with artificial leather or rubber material for sanitation, however, on cheap options these would quickly start tearing off and earpads would have to be replaced pretty frequently, so choose wisely Make sure the headset has either an attachable microphone or built-in microphone for users to use services such as NHS Near Me Monitors For visually impaired users, we recommend purchasing higher resolution and size monitors to enable all features. As mentioned before, these could be mid-tier gaming monitors from each known manufacturer such as ASUS ROG, Samsung, HP, MSI and others. The reason we suggest specifically gaming monitors is because you are able to achieve better colour, resolution and refresh rate features a lot better than on a standard office monitor while costing roughly the same. A mid-tier gaming monitor would cost you from £80 to £120. We suggest you don’t exceed this price as you wouldn’t be getting any other useful features for library use by paying more. A bigger size monitor would also result in better magnifier functionality as there would simply be more space to use within the screen. Oversized trackball mouse Although this device is not specific to visually impaired users, it is potentially a great thing to have for people with motor disabilities. This mouse operates similarly to a regular mouse, but instead of moving the mouse on the desk, you would be moving the cursor using a trackball. Head wand Just like the trackball mouse, this device is not designed for visually impaired users, however it is a good thing to have if a person has motor issues or paralysis disabilities. A head wand operates in the same way as a mouth stick does and although such users would most likely have their own device, it is good to have one just in case. Braille displays Braille displays are an option to consider if you have a more generous budget. Blind users would be able to use a braille display to read the screen. Bear in mind that these displays start at around £1800 and can go up to £5000. Other accessibility support suggestions Here is a list of suggestions of other ways of improving accessibility for special needs users: Have the ‘accessibility’ area clearly marked with bright colours such as blue and orange as these colours will not only be easier to see for visually impaired people, but is also a good combination for colour-blind people Have the ‘accessibility’ area located on the ground floor with clear markings towards it. This can be signs or floor markings To improve visibility of the screens, consider placing the ‘accessibility’ PCs away from the windows and other bright light sources Consider replacing standard keyboards for the ‘accessibility’ PCs with marked keyboards (for blind people) Consider investing into headsets for the ‘accessibility’ PCs to allow screenreaders to work non-disruptively for other users.  Our suggestion would be to avoid cheaper office headsets, as these are not sound proof and generally very uncomfortable to use for a long time. Consider mid-range options that have full ear coverage with soft earpads, we are confident that many people will thank you for such consideration! Have the print-point easily reachable from the ‘Accessibility’ area Consider investing into higher resolution and size monitors for the ‘Accessibility’ PCs. These will provide easier use, better feature coverage and are generally more eye friendly. One option to consider is mid-tier gaming monitors, as they are roughly the same in price but generally have higher-end displays and sizes and providing a lot more display settings A great thing to have is special mouse devices that have button markings for easier button recognition by visually impaired users You can print out coloured stickers and mark the buttons on the mouse for simplified visibility. These can also be orange and blue to address colour-blind people too Examples of accessibility support from our libraries Cardiff Libraries Cardiff Library has a number of regular users with visual impairments that come into use a modified PC in their central branch. The PC uses Windows Magnifier and High Contrast mode. The High Contrast mode allows the cursor to always display in an opposite contrast colour to the page. It has a larger 32” screen and displays the biggest screen resolution by default. The PC comes with a special keyboard with yellow keys and enlarged black text. It’s situated in a pod to minimise glare from external light sources. Users who travel into the Central Library to use the PC will benefit further in the months to come, with plans in place for the same accessible PC provision at sites in the North, South, East and West districts. Manchester Libraries Computers have Supernova software, used to magnify text or convert it to speech, giving access to standard Microsoft products and the Internet. Special needs users also have extended time allowance using computers. Sutton Libraries Most libraries have a PC with an enhanced screen, scanner and software which makes computers accessible to those with visual impairment. Supernova is available at some libraries. Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead Libraries Durning Library, Maidenhead Library and Windsor Library offer access to Supernova specialist software supporting users with visual impairment. Library of Birmingham Supernova is available on every computer and offers a screen magnifier, screen reader and support for Braille displays. Surrey Libraries All computers have NVDA software. This is a screen reader which enables blind and visually impaired people to hear the text in front of them read aloud, for both web pages and Word documents. Surrey Libraries also have flat screen monitors, trackball mouse devices, large keyboards and wrist rests to address all special needs groups. Portsmouth Libraries At Portsmouth, IT training is provided for the visually impaired providing help for learning to use computers. Tameside Metropolitan Borough Libraries Tameside Libraries have equipment and software to make it easier for everybody to use the computers. Hardware and software provided include: Trackball mouse devices, Mouse Trays, Large Keyboards, 3D Keyboards, Footrest, Wrist rest, LCD screens, Windows Magnifier and Microsoft Narrator. In conclusion We thank you for spending time to read this article – we hope it serves as a useful start for improving accessibility for library users. As you can see, there are many solutions that meet a wide range of budgets, including lots of easy and inexpensive approaches you can take to begin with. Our team is happy to assist you in making this come to life, so do not hesitate to contact us. As mentioned above, resources from Lorensbergs include a detailed guide on getting the most from Netloan for supporting accessible facilities – please get in touch with your account manager and request a copy. As always, we are keen on hearing more about your approaches to providing services to meet all needs, so please share and we will be happy to circulate more widely.