GLL libraries rated 'excellent' for sixth year running
Innovative technologies support customer use and efficient service delivery.
Charitable social enterprise GLL - which runs library services in Bromley, Dudley, Greenwich, Lincolnshire, and Wandsworth under the 'Better' brand on behalf of local authorities - has been granted the 'Technology Excellence in Libraries Award (TEiLA)' for the sixth year running.
The award was made by BIC - Book Industry Communications - a membership organisation for those that work in publishing, libraries, printing, sales, book distribution and supply chain management.
TEiLA accreditation celebrates organisations who adopt best practice and use technology in a beneficial way to liaise with others in the book industry.
GLL was one of only ten library services to receive TEiLA accreditation this year – illustrating the value of the achievement. Barbara Hall, Stock Manager with Bromley libraries, said, "GLL is a successful libraries operator that is committed to using all the tools at our disposal to improve services for customers.
"This award recognises our innovation in technology to link with other organisations - including suppliers - and streamlining processes to make things more efficient and convenient for library users."
"So, we offer self-issue technology where customers can renew a book in person or online - Bromley Libraries were the first to adopt an automated 'scan and drop’ return system and Dudley Libraries were at the forefront of adopting electronic purchasing and invoicing."
The award also acknowledges efforts to make services more sustainable. GLL libraries’ use of solar panels, recycling, and its goal of being carbon-neutral by 2030 across the whole organisation, was noted.
Previous innovations in adoptive technologies in GLL libraries include 3D printing, VR headsets, sensory booths, and demonstrations of the Better Libraries app.
For more information about GLL's 76 libraries across the UK, visit - https://www.better.org.uk/library