Convenience lockers at Peninsula library in Lawrence

Handed a business card from Luxer One account manager Donovan Albert, four people typed a six-digit code on the iPad screen and voila four different doors of the 39 locker compartments opened.

The “tests” showed how Luxer One’s lockers worked and the convenience now available to Peninsula Public Library cardholders, who after emailing the library and receiving a six-digit code will be able to pick up or drop off material they have borrowed or are returning.

Albert, along with General Manager Adam Whitney, were among the people who attended the Oct. 27 ribbon-cutting for PPL’s new amenity in the back of the library. A $25,000 grant obtained though State Assemblywoman Melissa Miller’s office supported the purchase.

“The Covid pandemic changed hours and limited libraries with 24/7 operation of the lockers people are not limited and can safely and contactless use them,” said Whitney, adding that this is the first Luxer One, a Sacramento-based company, locker setup on Long Island, but more are expected in the near future.

Whitney said the lockers are being using by 50 libraries nationwide, including university libraries, and by retail stores. He anticipates the lockers being one of the many things that will have a continued use after the pandemic ends because of the convenience for people to get or return items at any time.

“It was a flawless process,” Library Director Carolynn Matulewicz said about working with Luxer One. The 39 lockers are varying sizes to accommodate books, documents and other materials.

Library Board President Sarah Yastrab credited Matulewicz for getting this done. “A thank you goes to Carolynn for doing all the work and thank you to Melissa Miller.”

“This is an example of making libraries more accessible,” said Miller, a Republican from Atlantic Beach.

Oh yes, in the lockers were a few items of Luxer One swag, including sunglasses, a pen, hand sanitizer, a miniature fan to plug into an electronic device and a lanyard.