Rural libraries expand access with unstaffed hours
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Several rural library systems across the United States, including the East Central Regional Library in Minnesota, are piloting programs that allow users to access library branches even when staff are not present.
These initiatives, known by different names like “extended access” or “Open+ Access”, require patrons to obtain a library card and register for the program. Users then unlock doors with their cards, gaining access to books, computers, and other resources.
The East Central Regional Library (ECRL) launched its “extended access” program at its Wyoming branch after recognizing a need for more flexible library hours for people with work and family commitments. ECRL installed security cameras and requires users to complete a safety briefing before participating. So far, 55 users have registered and used the service over 800 times since April, with usage increasing by 66 percent. However, expanding these programs faces financial hurdles.
ECRL spent $70,000 to renovate the Wyoming library for after-hours access and $12,000 annually for the necessary technology. The library system recently reduced hours in some counties due to funding shortages and lacks committed funding to expand the extended access program to other branches. Similarly, the Timberland Regional Library in Washington state is seeking a tax increase to avoid budget cuts, even while maintaining its expanded access program and aiming to increase staffed hours.
