Berkeley Public Library

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The Berkeley Public Library is the public library system for Berkeley, California. It is comprised of the Central Branch, the North Branch, Claremont Branch, South Branch, and West Branch. Also located at South Branch is the Tool Lending Library where Berkeley residents and other local homeowners can borrow tools.

[edit] Technology

The Berkeley Public Library recently switched almost all checkouts to electronic self-checkout. Several self-checkout machines are placed inside the library and allow patrons to check out the books themselves by scanning their card and placing the books on the machine. This form of checkout allows for all types of media, from books to CDs to DVDs, and provides the patron with a receipt of the items checked out. Currently, checkout at the circulation desk occurs only in the case that there is an error with a book, card, account, or machine.

In addition to this system, patrons can request and renew books over the Internet, allowing them to do so without leaving their homes. This option is also available over the telephone.