Aston Boosts Access to Tech With Smart Lockers
Denise Crouch
Aston University, situated on a spacious 40-acre campus at the heart of Birmingham, accommodates a vibrant community of 9,500 students. Renowned for its world-class teaching facilities and exceptional graduate employment prospects, Aston University is a hub of academic excellence.
To cater to the diverse needs of its student population, especially during term time and exam periods, the university's library provides round-the-clock access, six days a week. Recognised for its outstanding customer service, the library has earned prestigious accolades.
However, a challenge arose when the library identified a gap in providing laptop access to students outside staffed hours. Seeking a solution, they turned to LapSafe® to help them find the ideal Smart Locker solution.
Angela Brady, Assistant Director of Library and Information Services, highlighted the transformative impact of the Diplomat™Pro LapSafe® lockers "Before purchasing the Diplomat™Pro Smart Lockers, our laptops were only available for students to borrow during staffed hours. The university library wanted to be able to enhance the offering to students during 24-hour opening, by allowing them access to the laptops even if staff were not available."
The university library originally opted for a 48 bay Diplomat™Pro which seamlessly integrated with their existing library management system, Millennium, to streamline laptop loans. Angela praised the self-service aspect of the product, facilitating extended services beyond staffed hours. "Our students love the product. The mechanical installation of the unit was also timely and very straightforward," added Angela.
Presently, the university library processes approximately 200 laptop loans daily. Angela enthusiastically recommended the LapSafe® Diplomat™Pro Smart Lockers to other universities aiming to maximise their laptop loaning service, emphasising how students appreciate the convenience of using the self-service smart lockers.
Starting out with 48 locker bays Aston have since expanded to 192 Locker bays across campus. Find out what makes the Diplomat™Pro Smart Lockers the ideal choice for any University Campus.