Putting technology in the hands of its patrons was the idea behind UTA Libraries' latest project, the Tech Lending Machine. The machine located on the first floor of the Central Library allows people to borrow technology items at no cost. 

 

This machine arrived at the library in the Spring 2022 semester and eased the process of lending and borrowing gadgets. 

 

The machine reduces the wait time, eliminates human errors and simplifies the process of tracking items. Some of the items patrons can borrow are cameras, USB cables, Wi-Fi hot spots, and calculators. 

 

David Keeton, Studio Technologies Specialist, has been at the UTA Libraries for the past year and oversees the tech lending project. 

 

"Ever since the COVID outbreak, people have been relying more on contactless technologies than before, and this tool fits perfectly in that category," David said. "The way the process works is (first) you scan the ID. The machine will make sure that you are allowed to borrow something from the system. Once it confirms that you can, it will show you the list of available items you can borrow." 

 

David said the machine would only show a user the items that are currently available to borrow. Once a patron checks out a device, they receive an email with the information of the device they checked out and the deadline to return it. 

 

The machine works like a standard vending machine. There is a mechanical arm that will extend and raise and lift. The machine uses a set of grab wheels when it wants to grab onto an item. The grab wheels latch onto the tray that holds the tech item. Once attached, the mechanical arm brings the item to the door, where it is dispensed to the user. 

 

There are 500 slots in the machine, which has been named Mason by student employees. These slots accommodate devices of different sizes and heights. For example, a device such as a webcam and a USB cable are not placed in the same-sized spaces. The device is always available for use when the library is open. So, it will be available 24/7 in the Fall and Spring semesters. 

 

Check out our previous article about how UTA Libraries plans to invest in the Higher Education Emergency Relief Funds awarded by the U.S Department of Education to purchase more laptops to meet the high demand.  

 

The policy on loan periods, late returns, and missing or damaged items can be viewed online at https://libraries.uta.edu/services/borrowing/fines.