Hong Kong’s public libraries operator opened the City’s first self-service book station on 5 Dec 2017. Readers can now borrow from 300 books from the vending machine-style station located at Sai Wan Ho. Two more stations will be launched in the second half of 2018 in other parts of City.

The addition came as the rise of e-books has caused interest in Hong Kong’s public libraries to wane. The self-service station provides an extra channel for readers such as working professionals to borrow books outside normal working hours. Readers can also pick up books they have requested from public libraries.

More information: http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/community/article/2122973/self-service-library-stations-provide-books-demand-hong