Library of Things at Lucerne University: Self-Service That Delivers
With the opening of the Perron building at Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSLU) in mid-February, a vibrant new campus has taken shape in the heart of the city, along with a modern new branch of the Lucerne Central and University Library (ZHB). Previously separate libraries for Business and Social Work have now been brought together to create a shared learning environment: bright, open spaces with flexible furnishings designed for studying, collaboration and relaxation alike.
One of the standout new features is the Library of Things and demand is high. An intelligent locker system with 73 compartments provides easy access to a wide range of technical equipment. The selection has been tailored specifically to the needs of students and lecturers, from USB-C adapters and laptops to cameras with tripods, presentation kits and even portable lecterns. Items that once had to be collected from the service desk can now be borrowed independently at any time.
The result? Maximum flexibility for users, improved availability of equipment and noticeable relief for library staff. The library itself is open far beyond staffed service hours: weekdays from 7:00 am to 9:30 pm, Saturdays from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm and around the clock for university employees.
Borrowing in Seconds
“There’s a real sense of curiosity and excitement. The transparent, illuminated compartments make the items highly visible,” says Kathrin Heim, Systems Librarian and Project Manager at ZHB.
Using the locker is quick and intuitive. Students simply scan their digital campus card stored in their smartphone wallet, choose a compartment and collect their item within seconds. Returns are just as easy.
Students have long been familiar with self-service kiosks for borrowing library media. As part of the move, Nexbib replaced the previous RFID equipment with more modern desktop devices running the latest software. Staff workstations were also upgraded with new RFID antennas to ensure efficient media handling throughout the library.
A Self-Service Concept That Works
The growing usage figures speak for themselves: both the self-service kiosks and the locker system continue to see rising borrowing numbers. The ZHB team is delighted with the results.
“The installation of the new RFID solutions went incredibly smoothly. Nexbib configured the locker system exactly the way we wanted it, and the support throughout the project was excellent,” says Heim. Her verdict is simple: “It just works. We’re genuinely happy.”
The system’s flexibility became apparent almost immediately. During carnival season, several compartments suddenly contained streamers available for loan. Clearly, the Library of Things is evolving and users can expect more surprises in the future.
About Perron and Lucerne Central and University Library
Around 3,000 students, 6,500 continuing education participants and 400 staff members will shape daily life at Perron in the years ahead. Thanks to its central location next to the railway station and its modern, climate-neutral infrastructure, the new campus further strengthens the role of HSLU and ZHB as leading education and research institutions in Central Switzerland. The open and inviting architecture reflects both organisations’ strong commitment to collaboration and exchange.
As both a cantonal and university library, the Lucerne Central and University Library serves the public as well as the academic community. It is the largest library in Central Switzerland. Since 1951, it has provided literature and information for research and teaching, study and professional development, as well as leisure and entertainment. Its collections and services are designed to meet the needs of a broad audience while also supporting students and lecturers across the university.
Across its eight locations, the library welcomed almost 995,000 visitors in 2024, handled around 170,000 physical loans and recorded more than 2.23 million accesses to digital media.
For more information, visit Lucerne Central and University Library and HSLU.
Photos © HSLU, Kathrin Heim/ZHB Lucerne