Library Paging Solutions

Library pager systems

Let's solve safety problems, funding, staff, annoyed patrons and more.

While funding for libraries has always been a problem area for years, there are ways to 'stretch' the funding so that it IS possible to improve library services and improve efficiency. But linked with many other aspects involved in operating a busy library, sometimes it feels like things are out of control and may never be improved.

Over more recent years the safety aspect of patrons (and staff) in a library has been under scrutiny. It feels almost like those rules are being put in place to make things difficult, but of course in reality the safety of staff and patrons really is paramount.

Since before 2020 some staff have left the library sector through many reasons. Some might want to 'work from home', or get better pay and working conditions - the reasons are endless, but that leaves libraries (if they have not been closed!) in an often dire situation where there simply is not enough staff to operate the library and its services effectively.

Once a library cannot serve their patrons effectively, then there are problems from annoyed or frustrated patrons. And some can be aggressive towards staff! Something that has to be addressed.

But with all of these listed shortcomings how can ANY library facility operate offering a great service? It sounds almost impossible to do, but in reality today with the help of technology its not really very difficult. The usual problem is that libraries think that the costs are too high, that they MUST have replacement staff, and as for a bad service those frustrated patrons will be there forever. But that is patently not the case in our experience.

Once you understand the problems and know the AFFORDABLE solutions then factually those above problems are relatively easy to resolve. It's possible to turn your library from a problematic place to a thriving, effective, efficient well run operation within budget!

The Funding Problem

Everyone generally involved has a 'can't do' approach, often seated in years of under-funding and the assumption that any funding cannot be sufficient to solve inherent problems as described above. But that mentality is certainly not founded on any understanding of technology costs today. So let's consider those other problems already stated and see just how affordable those solutions are and how hey will help librarians to run a great service.

Staff and Patron Safety

It IS important that all aspects of safety for everyone are followed correctly, and that systems are in place to ensure safety. One solution from LRS UK are emergency call buttons. Those can be placed around the library and used for emergency or safety notifications to staff. But those very same PFS buttons can also be used to contact staff for other reasons. There are 6 buttons on some of the devices that can be programmed for different notifications. And there are other features we'll cover next. These are low cost units with text pagers for the involved staff and are proven over and over to help these exact situations. And of course two way radios can handle some of the safety and security problems easily as they are in so many companies out there today.

The Staff

Two aspects are present, shortages of staff, and staff morale. Of course they are linked. Over stretched staff will question their validity in the position for the pay received. It's obvious. Many library staff love their work but are under a continuous stress level in this way. But it does not have to be this way. We mentioned the call-buttons above. Those little devices can make life much easier for staff. They will get a text when they are needed and can attend the correct location. Even if a team of staff members are messaged, the first to arrive can cancel the call and let other staff 'stand down'. It's brilliant for staff shortages and makes the staff that are there have less stress. And this equipment will reduce trouble from patrons for 'no service'.

Annoyed Patrons

Patrons don't get annoyed for no reason. Often frustration with poor service levels will cause them to get annoyed. So use a patron paging system to call them back when you need them. It's a simple system and remains cost effective. when you need them, press a button and that patron will return to the desk. It's that easy.

So where from here?

Through a combination of call buttons, wireless radios, patron recall pagers and other simple things both the staff will have the ability to improve those services exponentially, and the patrons will praise the staff for such an efficient and 'slick' operation that could never have been achieved before the equipment was available.

Hopefully this short analysis of some of the problems in current day libraries will help the reader to understand the issues and how to easily and cost effective way to improve.

We hope that the above solutions help to create thoughts about these important decisions. If you need any help we're available on 01782 537000. Ask for customer services who are lovely people and love to help with communications problems. Did you know we offer a 3 year warranty on our products against manufacturing defects? All to help any type of business operate effectively.