RFID and AMH Consultation with Regina Public Library (Saskatechewan)

Regina Public Library (RPL) is in the early stages of its Central Library Renewal initiative. Begun in 2019 with a comprehensive Needs Assessment and Project Plan for Central Library Renewal, the project includes a plan to upgrade the library system to RFID and implement automated materials handling (AMH). The Library seeks a consultant to ensure staff understand the RFID and AMH market options and opportunities that are available and to provide recommendations for identifying products and/or functionality that would benefit the Library and help RPL achieve their strategic goals.

Lori Ayre will work with the library to:

  • Review and provide feedback to internally developed AMH Assessment
  • Supplement existing AMH space assessment as needed
  • Provide information about state-of-the-art products in the following categories:
    • Materials induction systems
    • Sorting systems
    • RFID gates for more than just security
    • RFID shelving solutions
    • New, innovative products based on RFID
  • Provide RFID and AMH recommendations and act as broker with regard to potential vendors and suppliers
  • Assist with procurement of RFID and possibly AMH
  • Assist with planning for RFID and AMH implementation

Library Automated Materials Handling Consultation and Procurement

Worked with San Mateo Public Library to replace the existing automated materials handling system with a state-of-the-art system.  Project involved consultation related to RFID and automated materials handling configuration options and includes development of RFP, guiding the library through the procurement process and assisting with selection of a new system.

The existing system was installed in 2006 and provides convenient patron returns from numerous locations including drive-up returns, outside walk-up returns and two inside returns. The project will include evaluating options for retaining some of the conveyance and only upgrading the sorter as well as full-scale replacement of all components.  Ayre worked closely with the team to develop specifications for the new system and guided them through the procurement process.  The new system has been successfully implemented and is now up and running.

Library RFID and Self-Service Consultation

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.