Projects

Assisted the Library in evaluating opportunities for implementing RFID and self-service technologies. Engagement includes developing procurement and implementation strategy and facilitating procurement process from RFP development to contract negotiation.  Originally planned to include automated materials handling as part of the procurement but these plans were delayed due to plans related to library remodel and/or new building.

The Library is currently using Innovative Interface's Express Lane for self-check and will be comparing the benefits of adding RFID to their existing Express Lane systems versus moving to self-check systems provided by the RFID vendor.

Libraries in Clackamas County (LINCC) provides services to 13 independent partner libraries in Clackamas County.  Primary services include a shared library system and courier services. As a result of our work with LINCC, the libraries now also share RFID self-service and materials handling equipment and LINCC staff manage these systems centrally. 

The Galecia Group worked with LINCC to assess the materials handling processes and facilities at all member library locations as well as courier operations at LINCC headquarters. We then facilitated a decision-making process and provided consulting to consortium staff as they planned the procurement, provisioning and implementation of the new systems.

Wide range of consulting services related to RFID and automated materials handling including analysis of 33 of the Library’s 37 outlets, recommendations for AMH configurations at each location as well as identification of impediments to using AMH or RFID, cost-benefit analyses, market analysis of RFID and AMH vendors, case studies demonstrating best practices, and presentation of findings from study and recommendations.

Consultation with Anoka County Library (MN) to evaluate each of their branches to identify opportunities for improving materials handling workflows and recommend whether, if applicable, how to implement RFID and automated materials handling.  

Consultation with Carlsbad City Library to evaluate their three branches for the purpose of upgrading their RFID and materials handling system. They had legacy tags (not compliant with current standards) and a very old sorter at one location. They were looking for help with options for upgrading their system while preserving their investment as much as possible.  

Working with Library to develop an ILS procurement document, evaluate potential vendors, assist with demos and final selection. The approach we took was to work with the library to identify minimum qualifications for vendors to meet in order to be considered for a demonstration. Rather than working with a laundry list of requirements, in the first phase the Library is focusing on identifying the key differentiating qualifications and seeking information about how the ILS vendor handles critical workflows. 

Lori Ayre worked with Alameda County Libraries to evaluate the materials handling operations and workflows including staffing, procedures, use of spaces and technology and interlibrary delivery. After the initial consultation, it was clear that there were numerous issues beyond the topic of materials handling that needed to be addressed.  Therefore, The Galecia Group recommended the Library form a Materials Handling Task Force to further tease out these other issues in order to put the materials handling challenges in perspective and to identify suitable solutions for the Library while developing staff engagement in the solutions. This approach was accepted and Ayre worked with the team to further evaluate the issues. Engagement was concluded with the Task Force submitting materials handling recommendations to Executive Team.

Galecia principal, Lori Ayre, and Galecia Associate, Karen Coyle, worked with the Santa Clara County Library to test the effect of making freely available ebooks available to patrons directly from the Library catalog. Working with the Internet Archive APIs and content, the Galecia team converted MARC records for the Library to load into their catalog. These records allow patrons to download e-books directly from the catalog (without having to go to the Internet Archive's Open Library website).

Dayton Metro Library has embarked on a series of initiatives that will transition the library from a 22-outlet system with book-centered spaces to a 17-outlet system designed to better serve the diverse needs of the Montgomery County community.

The Library contracted with The Galecia Group for help evaluating the potential benefits of using new technologies to create optimized workflows for staff and improve the customer experience.

The contract included assessing the benefits, costs, and return on investment of RFID and materials handling technologies. In addition, the project included a process in which staff would learn more about the technology and participate in a series of activities that would help them envision how RFID, sorters, self check-in, and self check-out, could be employed to free up staff time and library spaces allowing staff to focus on the evolving needs of their patrons and better serve their communities.