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Santa Clara City Library has been using Checkpoint Systems' self-check
machines as one component of our RFID system for about two years. This, of
course, involves a much broader scope of work than simply adding self-check
machines , , , conversion to RFID is not quick and easy, but the long-term
advantages made it an attractive solution for us. You can read more about the
entire process at:
We currently accomplish approximately 35% of our Central Library's
circulation on our "Express Check" machines (we have two) . . . we circ about
1.2 million items per year and that number is constantly increasing. We are now
adding a third Express Check machine at our temporary facility, and we will have
seven machines in our new Central Park Library, opening early next year.
We encourage users to check out on the Express Check machines, but we are
not aggressive about it. We recognize that, for some users, interaction with
Library staff is an essential part of why they visit the library. Express Check
is simply one option. But for those who want to get their materials and get on
their way, the Express Check machines make that easy. The most difficult part of
the process is teaching users how to scan their library card barcode (we don't
currently use RFID library cards). We have a small portion of our collection --
high-loss items such as DVDs -- in security cases, and these cannot be checked
out on the Express Check machines. We are working with Checkpoint on a variety
of possible solutions to that impediment.
Our user response has been uniformly positive. It is amusing to see small
children, after Story Time, dragging their parents to the Express Check
machine, and teaching them to use it. Kids will battle over who gets to scan the
materials. We designed custom graphics as part of the machine interface, and
created print materials -- signs and handouts -- to teach and encourage the use
of Express Check. The current level of usage (35%) is inching up each month, and
we expect it to grow with the addition of the third station.
All things considered, RFID and Checkpoint has proven to be a wonderful
addition to our services.
Steve Smith
John Stephen Smith
Library Program Coordinator - Technology Santa Clara City Library 3345 Lochinvar Avenue Santa Clara, CA 95051 408.615.2980 Desk 408.247-9657 FAX jssmith@xxxxxxxxxx Every library should try to be complete on something, if it were only the
history of pinheads.
- Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr., Poet at the Breakfast Table >>> sfmccann@xxxxxxxxxx 03/21/03 06:48AM >>> We are also interested in self check machines. I would be interested to know how self check or express check has been received in your public library. - In addition to what self check system you are using I would also like to know - What problems, if any, you may have had with self check interfacing with the III system and whether you have INNOPAC or Millennium? - How easy was it to setup? - What problems, if any, you have encountered with the self check system itself.? - How user friendly is it for the public? - Does it reliably do what it is advertised that it will do? - What percent of your circulation is done through self check - What strategies did you use to encourage customers to use self check and were they successful. Thank you for any insights you can give. Sue McCann Assistant Director Portsmouth Public Library 8 Islington Street Portsmouth, NH 03801 Phone: 603.766.1711 Fax: 603.433.0981 email: sfmccann@xxxxxxxxxx -- This message was distributed through the Innovative Users Group INNOPAC list Public replies: INNOPAC@xxxxxxxxxx Update your subscription options: http://innopacusers.org/list/listinfo/innopac |
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