Altadena Library Expands Lending Services with New Vending Machines

The Altadena Library District is enhancing its services by introducing two AutoLend library vending machines, further extending access to physical materials for Altadenans. 

One of these machines is located at Prime Pizza in Altadena, at 1900 Allen Ave., while the other is situated just outside the Main Library, at 600 E Mariposa Street. 

These vending machines operate as community outreach kiosks offering library cardholders the ability to browse, reserve, collect, and return materials at their convenience, 24/7. Additionally, individuals who sign up for a digital library card can immediately check out items.

“It’s an innovative utilization of conventional technology that allows us to engage with the community round the clock,” said Nikki Winslow, Director of the Altadena Library District. “This, in turn, enables our staff to allocate their resources to support other outreach initiatives and provide valuable library programs.”

The new library vending machines are part of the Altadena Library District’s commitment to providing access to its resources 24/7, 365 days a year, a library statement said. The project became possible through a budget bill authored by Assemblymember Chris Holden in 2021 which secured $250,000 for the library district. International Library Services supplied the vending machines.

To mark the launch and create local awareness, the library is holding a ribbon-cutting event and demonstration of the vending machine at the Prime Pizza location on Friday, Oct. 20, at 3 p.m.

The Altadena Library District also operates a mobile unit, the Curiosity Connection, and will be introducing a second mobile unit later this year. 

For more information, visit www.altadenalibrary.org.