library patron? no., originally uploaded by aaron schmidt.
Aaron writes:
a library employee. everyone i saw minus one was on the OUTSIDE of these desks, not hidden behind.
I am so happy to see this. It’s a perfect example of the evolving library and evolving reference desk. Three cheers to this forward thinking library in Holland.
I’m reminded of recent retail experiences where I stood beside the person helping me as we designed our new front door. I’m reminded of checking into a hotel where the check in desk had been replaces with individual kiosks/stations, where I stood beside the hotel staff checking me in.
Have you tried this in your libraries? Do you want to? Is there resistance to new ways of thinking? Have you “always done it this way.” Look to other countries folks. Look to other businesses and organizations.
Please comment if you are trying this user-friendly, open model at your library.