Oklahoma City Free Press: Belle Isle Library Set to Re-open with Striking Additions New Technology

The Belle Isle Library in northwest Oklahoma City has been expanded in dramatic ways that are beautiful and inviting. The ribbon-cutting and opening is Friday.

But, beyond the impressive architecture of the newest upgrade of a branch in the Metropolitan Library System is a set of new features that many never would have dreamed of just fifty years ago.

Just a few years ago, 3-D printers were a finicky curiosity that produced as many failed attempts at projects as marginally successful ones. But, Thursday, when the press were given a sneak peek inside, staff members were stopping by occasionally to check on two 3-D printers running smoothly on their own. They were easily turning out elaborate bookmarks to be handed out at the ribbon-cutting and opening Friday. And, I saw no failed attempts, either.

They are in a maker space that includes high-tech sewing machines and other items that promote new creations.

Full automation of book returns now installed in the new libraries in the system have been installed in the Belle Isle branch as well but unlike the other library branches the process will be on full display through floor to ceiling glass when users walk in the main entryway.

Put your checked out materials in the slot where a scanner reads what it is and then a conveyer process drops it into the hopper to its next destination in the system.

Check outs now involve just a quick scan of your library card and the material’s bar code and you are out the door. And, if you just want to say hello to a librarian in the process you can have them do the same thing for you.