Scottsdale's Self-Service Library Service Taking Off

SCOTTSDALE, AZ — Scottsdale's self-service offering that launched in March at Appaloosa Library, dubbed "The Pony Express," has hit the ground running.

That's because the service, which launched on March 15 and allows library cardholders to use the facility without staff monitoring the floor, has seen 831 users register for the service, the city said.

The library has been closed to the public in a full-service manner since the COVID-19 pandemic began in March 2020, using drive-thru service to serve the public.

“It has been really wonderful to welcome patrons back in the building by opening with the Pony Express Service at Appaloosa,” said Branch Manager Sky Larsen. “We’ve enjoyed seeing families with young children resume browsing and having children pick and check-out their own books.”

The service allows Scottsdale to reopen its libraries to the general public while limited exposure for staff, the city said.

Additionally, it allows the community to browse the library's shelves, while also using its computers, printers and copiers.

"One of the hardest parts of the pandemic was not being able to come inside the library and browse the collection,” said an Appaloosa Library Pony Express patron. “I’m so grateful for this new service.”

For more information on Scottsdale's Pony Express program, visit its website or call 480-312-7323.