50,000 Circulation Items to Receive RFID Tags; Check Out and Return Automation May Follow
To reduce its loss factor, the Cynthiana-Harrison Public Library will deploy an RFID (radio frequency identification) security system from 3M Library Systems this fall. Cynthiana is the seat of Harrison County in northern Kentucky, about 30 miles northeast of Frankfort, the state capital.
3M will install two Series 8900 single-corridor detection units that use RFID technology to help ensure that circulation items have been properly checked out. Each item will be affixed with an RFID tag, which stores the item’s identity and transaction experience, and communicates information using radio waves. An item that has not been checked out will trigger a signal.
Tagging of some 50,000 circulation items has begun, and installation is expected to be completed by the end of November.
Cynthiana Library Director Pat Barnes says the RFID tags eventually may serve more than one purpose, enabling the library to automate such circulation management functions as checkout and return, sorting and inventory.
“Our immediate need was to improve security with respect to items lost,” says Barnes. “However, we know that RFID also is used to enhance productivity in libraries, and we are examining that for the near term.” A 3M SelfCheck System, which lets customers take out books and audio-visual items without a librarian’s assistance, may be next on the library’s RFID agenda, she adds.
Rory Yanchek, 3M Track and Trace Solutions general manager, says loss prevention is an increasingly critical concern for public libraries as budgets come under growing pressure in the face of expanding demand for services. “Libraries are recognizing that RFID helps make their circulating collections more secure, while also enabling greater productivity in serving the public, with tools such as SelfCheck Systems.”
Libraries using RFID technology are especially focused on the durability and reliability of the tags, adds Jacob Haas, marketing manager for 3M Library Systems. “3M RFID tags are designed to satisfy today’s demanding library applications, and 3M warranties that they will last as long as the items to which they are affixed,” says Hass.
A global leader in library innovation for more than 35 years, 3M Library Systems provides security, productivity and information management solutions that harness technology to enable a more human library, freeing librarians to spend more time doing what they do best – helping people. 3M also partners with libraries to support their technological advancement and ensure their success through numerous industry sponsorships and programs. For more information about the 3M Library Systems, visit http://www.3M.com/library.
About 3M
A recognized leader in research and development, 3M produces thousands of innovative products for dozens of diverse markets. 3M’s core strength is applying its more than 40 distinct technology platforms – often in combination – to a wide array of customer needs. With $23 billion in sales, 3M employs 79,000 people worldwide and has operations in more than 60 countries.
3M Public RelationsColleen Horn Harris, 651-733-1566cahornharris1@mmm.comorLVM Group Inc.Bob Rumerman, 212-499-6567bob@lvmgroup.comorPaul Marin, 212-499-6571paul@lvmgroup.com
