KCLS unveils new exterior library lockers at 4 King County libraries

The King County Library System one of the first large library systems in the country to offer locker pickup service.

By Olivia Sullivan • February 11, 2022 3:00 pm
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New electronic lockers are now available outside several King County libraries, allowing patrons to pick up library holds after facility hours.

King County Library System (KCLS) Executive Director Lisa Rosenblum, Tukwila Mayor Allan Ekberg and Washington State Librarian Sara Jones met at the Tukwila Library on Feb. 11 for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to inaugurate the new electronic library lockers.

“The lockers provide an easy and convenient way for patrons to pick up materials,” Rosenblum said. “We are excited to offer this popular service in more communities, and we hope residents enjoy having increased access to books and materials.”

KCLS patrons can now pick up library holds from a 24-hour locker at six libraries across King County.

The new exterior lockers are located at the Federal Way 320th, Kirkland, Tukwila and Woodinville libraries. The other two existing lockers are located at the Bothell and Covington Libraries, provided in Oct. 2020.

KCLS was one of the first large library systems in the country to offer the innovative locker pickup service.

The electronic library lockers at the Bothell, Covington, Federal Way 320th and Kirkland libraries are funded by the KCLS Foundation. A portion of the $364,480 American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant KCLS received in Oct. 2021 funded the lockers in Tukwila and Woodinville.

This grant is supported with ARPA funding provided by the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services administered by the Library Services and Technology Act, through the Washington State Library, a division of the Office of the Secretary of State.

“The Washington State Library is pleased to see ARPA funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services in action,” stated Washington State Librarian Sara Jones. “Federal investments in library services, such as KCLS’ locker system, are making timely and positive impacts in our communities.”

King County residents may access the new lockers with their KCLS library card and PIN/password. Learn more about how to choose a locker for your next library hold at kcls.org.