The Plano (Texas) Public Library System has selected the Integrated Technology Group (ITG) as its supplier for a full RFID implementation, bringing advanced materials flow management technology to each of its five branches. Collection tagging is set to begin mid-May; the project is scheduled for a fourth-quarter 2010 completion. Each branch will receive ITG's XpressCheck patron self-service stations, standard desktop and mobile staff stations, security gates with ITG's ExitWatch loss prevention and item tracking software, and a FullSort Compact 5-Bin automated materials handling system. Additionally, each Total Mobile battery-powered staff station will be equipped to perform inventory and shelf-reading functions in addition to tagging and circulation. The library system purchased an all-inclusive license for ITG's software and then selected the specific hardware needed for each branch.
Director of Libraries Cathy Ziegler says Plano chose ITG for several reasons: "The price was right," she says, "and we really liked the 'Plays Well With Others' motto of the company. Fitting in with our other applications was key," she notes.
ITG develops all of its products to be interoperable and to work with other vendors' systems and hardware. Many libraries turn to ITG to solve problems with their library automation systems. When used together, ITG equipment offers a real "connected library" solution with many standard features for messaging and reporting across systems.
The Plano Public Library System utilizes a Polaris ILS and has an annual circulation of 1,511,000 items. It has until now employed an electromagnetic security system as well as self-checkout stations from another vendor. The move to RFID and the efficiencies gained by adding sorters will allow the library to redeploy staff and better serve its growing constituency.
"I first went to Plano on a family visit and was really impressed with the city's library system," says ITG president Shai Robkin. "It's exciting to now be able to work with them on their migration to RFID because I know they will be thrilled with their new tools," he adds. "And the library's patrons will still be well served, with library staff freed to provide even more service."
Related Links:
