Chapter 2: Book Lift Mechanism FAQs

A library-goer checks out a book or other piece of physical media.

They enjoy it.

They return it (on time, of course).

Your staff checks it back in and reshelves it.

Lather. Rinse. Repeat.

This is the way libraries work, and have worked for centuries. The return and reshelving process, however, can take its toll on both the items brought back and those putting everything in its right place.

Fortunately, our Book Lift Mechanism makes this later part of the lending process a little easier. 

We've had many happy Book Lift Mechanism owners over the years – and none have ever been bashful about asking a few questions about the device. We've happily answered them, and are happy to continue to do so.

In case you have a few questions about the vertical lift mechanism for books, we've curated the most common questions our team has fielded, and of course, their answers.

Book Life Mechanism Overview

A librarian's best friend, our Book Lift Mechanism meets a simple fact of life for those who rent/lend out physical media: eventually, those items get returned and need to be reshelved.

That process, however, can be ... difficult, and not just for the person returning items to their rightful places.

American-made, the vertical lift mechanism addresses two key issues in processing books and other media.

With its spring-assist technology, the lift:

• Keeps return boxes raised to receive books as they're deposited without falling or tumbling.
• Gradually raises books on a library book cart as they're unloaded, making it easier to return them to their rightful place on shelves without strain. Think of it like those inset plate dispensers at a buffet that always keep a fresh plate at surface level with a counter. 

How is this accomplished?

Motion control technology that harnesses the power of a spring-loaded mechanism. In layman's terms, the mechanism keeps the floor of a library book return bin raised to receive books as they’re deposited. As more books pile on, their weight pushes the floor down. Any books (or other media) that are added always fall the same distance (which shouldn't be far) as the items that preceded them.

Later on, as items are taken off a mobile library book return cart during reshelving or processing, the mechanism keeps the pile at the same height.

See the Book Lift in Action:

How does this benefit your library?

Remember the two issues the vertical lift mechanism addresses? The heavy lifting the mechanism takes care of gives you:

Longer-lasting Media

When someone drops books or other items into the library book return bin, there really isn't a drop anymore. Rather than the item potentially falling a few feet before hitting its landing spot (and any other items in the way), the book, DVD, Blu-ray, or other media finds its place without such a drop or hard landing. That means less wear and tear on the items and, ergo, a longer lifespan.

Less Physical Strain on Staff

If you've ever restocked a shelf, you know it can quite literally be a pain. With repetitive motion and objects that can be heavy, it is not uncommon for library staff to experience strain and injuries on the job. The book lift mechanism helps alleviate this issue by gradually raising books as they're unloaded, making it easier to return them to their rightful place on shelves without any physical strain. This can lead to fewer work-related injuries and a happier, healthier staff, as well as a more efficient reshelving process.

6 FAQs (& their answers) About Book Lift Mechanisms

What questions do we get about our Book Lift Mechanism? More often than not, these 6: 

1. What Sizes Does the Book Lift Mechanism Come in?

The vertical lift mechanism is available in load capacities of 50 and 60 pounds with a maximum working height of between 19.5 and 20.5 inches.

2. What level of Assembly is Required?

For the mechanism itself, none. That's something we take care of. However, it's up to you to find a housing unit for it, which is when you'll need to have your toolbox handy.

3. What is the Mechanism Made of?

Manufactured in the USA, (Jamestown, N.Y., to be more specific), the mechanism is made of high-quality and durable steel. The mechanism will have no problem having a long, useful life.

4. How do I Make Adjustments to my Book Lift?

That’s easy. You don’t. The mechanism is preset to a determined weight range that you’ve OK'd.  This is no different than many of our other motion control products, such as our Lift Gate Assistant, in that they come ready to do their job out of the box without ever needing adjustment.

5. Is There a Product Spec Sheet Available?

Yes. Get your copy right here.

6. Where do I get a Book Lift Mechanism From Weber Knapp?

That depends on the size of your order. If you're looking to purchase volume, our team is happy to work directly with you. However, if you're like the majority of those who own one of our booklift mechanisms, you're probably in the market for a single until. In that case, you're best off turning to one of our distributors.

My Question Isn't on This List. Where do I Turn?

Another easy one! Just get in touch with us today, and we'll be happy to answer your questions: