Ballito library’s automated check-in system faulty since 2019

A self-checkout and return system installed at the Ballito library in 2014 has been out of order since March 2019 and the company tasked with its maintenance has closed down.

Ballito residents have complained that with the system being non-functional, Covid-19 safety precautions are reduced.

The system allowed for minimal contact with people while checking books in and out.

Ballito Library was one of 6 libraries selected in the province to receive the machine.

According to KwaDukuza municipal spokesperson Sipho Mkhize, servicing of the system continued until 2019 but contract renewal talks with the Department of Arts and Culture and service provider Tactron Solutions failed. Tactron Solutions closed down that year.

IN OTHER NEWS

• Meet wheelchair surgeon Siyabonga Nzama [Watch]
• Taps run dry in Westbrook since Sunday
• Ballito paramedic cleared of unprofessional conduct

A new company, Specialized Scan Solutions, was opened and became the sole supplier for the library self-check machines.

“Verbal inquiry for the repair of the Ballito library machine was made with the arts and culture department since it broke down, but there was no formal response from them. It was recommended the municipality take out a maintenance plan,” Mkhize said.

However, the library did not have the budget to meet the costs.

KwaDukuza municipality has approached the new company for quotes and to establish whether they were indeed the sole supplier of the service.

The arts and culture department had not responded to request for comment at the time of going to print.

For breaking news follow The North Coast Courier on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

Join our Telegram Broadcast Service at: https://t.me/joinchat/yJULuN8NaCs5OGM0

Join our WhatsApp Broadcast Service: Simply add 082 792 9405 (North Coast Courier) as a contact to your phone, and WhatsApp your name and surname to the same number to be added.