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Laredo committee advances plan to host virtual court kiosks from Texas Legal Services Center
Summary
At its May meeting the Laredo Library Advisory Committee discussed a plan to place virtual court kiosks at city libraries, with kiosks donated by the Texas Legal Services Center and potential ongoing software costs to be covered by the city.
The Laredo Library Advisory Committee discussed plans to place virtual court kiosks at two city libraries after the Texas Legal Services Center offered spare units for relocation.
Committee members heard that TLCS is willing to provide two kiosks at no upfront installation cost, though ongoing software and maintenance fees could apply. Caitlin Fish of Rio Grande Legal Aid notified the group that "TLCS reached out to me to advise that they have a spare kiosk that they're willing to relocate by June," and that "there would be no installation cost, but there may be some ongoing software cost." Committee members estimated software maintenance at about $3,000 per kiosk per year, though speakers said that figure could be uncertain.
The committee discussed where kiosks could be placed. Library staff and volunteers noted kiosk designs range from open booths with privacy blinders to fully enclosed pods. One presenter said kiosks can be configured like a voting booth with headsets and privacy screens so attorney-client conversations remain private. Committee members said enclosed pods are available but can cost roughly $10,000 if an enclosed space is required; that expense would need separate funding if the city decides enclosure is necessary.
Members also discussed likely funding sources. The presenter said she "presume[d]... it wouldn't come out of the library's budget" and that council members were pursuing city-level funding. The transcript records that "Council member Eric ... is going to set up a meeting with the city manager" to determine funding and next steps.
Committee members requested more information on typical kiosk setups used by other libraries and asked staff to forward example photos and specifications so the group can revisit placement, privacy, and cost at a future meeting. No formal vote or budget approval occurred; the discussion produced direction for follow-up meetings and information-gathering.
Committee members said they will revisit the item at the next meeting or earlier if city management advances the project.
