Published: Aug. 18, 2020

Librarian looking at requests on computer

The first task in the contactless pickup service is to check for requests that came in the previous evening. Anyone with a CU Boulder IdentiKey can request a purchase through the libraries’ Chinook catalog and request up to 10 library materials at a time.

Librarian holding patron request receipt

Circulation Media Specialist Arielle Fertman prints out the details of each borrower’s requests. She will use this form as a “shopping list” to retrieve items from around Norlin Library.

Librarian walking through the stacks

The stacks are closed to borrowers because of COVID-19, but librarians can retrieve many items via the contactless pickup service.

Impressionist Art book

This borrower has requested a book on Impressionist art...

...and a few other items from the stacks.

...and a few other items from the stacks.

Another borrower wants a DVD. The library has about 7,100 physical DVDs in its collection, with more films and videos available online.

Another borrower wants a DVD. The library has about 7,100 physical DVDs in its collection, with more films and videos available online

Librarian walking down a hallway in Norlin Library

It takes over a dozen people to staff the Contactless Pickup services. The librarians easily get their 10,000 steps a day retrieving materials from across Norlin, the branches and PASCAL. 

Books on table

Books requests are assembled on a long table in Norlin’s basement…

Librarian putting books into a paper bag

.. and then put into paper bags ready for pickup. 

Librarian stands with contactless pickup sign outside Norlin Library

Shortly before opening, a librarian rolls signs out to the front steps of Norlin.

Librarian rolling carts of books out of doors

The carts are wheeled out on the day of the requester’s appointment and are ready for borrowers to pick up their items. 

Librarian rolling carts of books outside

Items can be retrieved by borrowers from the carts outside the library. 

For more information on contactless pickup and other Fall 2020 libraries services, visit our information page.