Gunpo City opened the Smart Library at Geumjeong Station on April 23, positioning it as a neighborhood reading hub. City officials say it’s more than a vending machine for books; they intend it as a lifestyle-oriented service tailored to commuters and other busy residents.
The kiosk sits inside the AK Plaza retail area, linked to the second-floor transfer concourse serving subway lines 1 and 4, which makes it highly accessible. The unmanned, automated system is available to anyone with a Gunpo City library card, including mobile cards. It is the city's second smart library, following the Dangjeong Station installation in December 2023.
Its chief advantage is extended access: the unit operates during subway service hours — including nights and holidays when public libraries are closed — improving access for workers and students who cannot visit during standard hours.
The Geumjeong Station Smart Library holds about 400 to 500 books. Staff curate a rotating selection of bestsellers and steady sellers so users regularly find new options.
Patrons may borrow up to two books for a 14-day loan period; renewals are not permitted. From searching a title to scanning a card and receiving a book, the process takes roughly a minute.
On site, a 34-year-old office worker, identified as Lee, said, "It's fun to pick a book on my way home instead of staring at my phone. The best part is being able to borrow new releases along my route without detouring to a library."
Gunpo City plans to expand smart libraries to other high-traffic hubs such as Gunpo Station and Sanbon Station as part of an effort to reinforce the city's identity as a place that reads. Officials say anticipated transportation projects, including the GTX-C line, could boost use at Geumjeong Station.
A city official said, "Smart libraries fill gaps in residents' reading opportunities. We will continue to prioritize convenience by expanding collections and keeping the system well-maintained to meet citizens' needs."
Experts note that smart libraries help overcome the time and space constraints of traditional libraries but flag several shortcomings: limited collection size, constraints on returns, and challenges in managing book condition.
/Gunpo — Jeon Nam-sik, reporter nschon@incheonilbo.com
