Beginning in January 2026, we’re updating how appointments open so it’s more fair for everyone to plan visits and find a time that works.
At a glance
- Appointments Through January 31, 2026: These are the last appointments booked under the current system—up to 100 days in advance. Availability will no longer show beyond that on our booking calendar.
- Starting January 2026: We’ll release new appointment availability on the first Monday of each month for the following month. Example: For a February 2026 appointment, availability will be released Monday, January 5, 2026 (the first Monday of January).
How the monthly release works
- Mark your calendar for the first Monday of each month.
- On that day, we’ll post the full schedule for the following month. Holidays will have the schedules released the next day, on Tuesday.
- Book your time: Select a ReBoot Service, then scroll down to see that service's calendar. If there's an opening, you can select the day and time slot online. Enter your information to complete your booking.
You’ll receive a confirmation email once your booking is complete. A reminder email will automatically be sent a day before. Please check our tutorials for appointment preparation tips.
Early 2026 release examples:
- Monday, January 5, 2026 → bookings open for February 2026
- Monday, February 2, 2026 → bookings open for March 2026
- Monday, March 2, 2026 → bookings open for April 2026
Appointments taking place in January 2026 are the last ones available via the 100‑days‑in‑advance system.
Why we’re making this change
- Predictability: A clear, monthly release day makes planning easier. Although, we have regular weekly sessions led by PACL staff on Wednesdays, volunteer-led sessions vary from month to month depending on volunteer availability. Releasing bookings on a monthly schedule will ensure all availability, including volunteer shifts, are shown in a timely manner. Be Our Partner: Become a VML volunteer and help us open more appointments!
- Fair access: Everyone sees new slots at the same time.
- Better operations: Helps us align staffing, equipment maintenance, and training support.
What stays the same
- The Vintage Media Lab services you love: digitizing printed photos, VHS, film, vinyl, and more.
- Friendly staff support to help you get great results.
- Your existing confirmed bookings remain valid—no action needed.
Tips for booking success
- Can’t find a time? Check back—cancellations are posted immediately when they happen.
Questions or assistance
We’re here to help. If you need booking support or have accessibility requests, please send us an eHelp request or speak with staff at your next appointment.
Vintage Media Lab Demand
We’ve been consistently booked 100-days in advanced under the old booking system for most of 2024! Last year, we booked over 60 appointments with 154 attendees. In 2025, we’re projected to close out the year with over 115 appointments and visits from over 250 participants. A big THANK YOU to our volunteers for helping us expand hours and to everyone attending throughout the years!
Our lab schedule is very busy and it may take several weeks or months to complete your scanning project. While you wait for the 1st Monday of each month in 2026 and beyond, check out other public libraries around us in the following FAQ: Where else can I digitize my vintage media?
View the Vintage Media Lab webpage for more FAQs and information!
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