A standalone book kiosk heralded as the first of its kind in San Francisco made its official debut on Treasure Island this past weekend, and patrons appear ready to embrace the concept.
People visiting the Island Cove Market on Saturday were treated to an event celebrating the new San Francisco Public Library Book Stop, a kiosk housing a permanent, standalone collection of popular books for all ages.
“The kiosk is an electronic machine located in the entryway of the Cove Market. It’s the size of a snack vending machine. You can see the books inside. It makes it much easier for people to check out a book. You scan your library card, the door opens and you can take out the book of your choice,” said Jaime Wong, a spokeswoman for the San Francisco Public Library.
Bookish, or presumably bookish, officials including City Librarian Michael Lambert and District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey participated in a ribbon-cutting for the kiosk and also made remarks.
San Francisco’s big blue bookmobile made a guest appearance as well, offering free book giveaways and signing up visitors for library cards.
Island Cove Market is located at 800 Avenue H on Treasure Island. The book kiosk is open during the market’s regular hours, and books checked out can be returned there or to any other San Francisco Public Library location.
The Saturday unveiling event was presented by San Francisco Public Library and the Treasure Island Development Authority.