Austin Public Library to Install RFID Systems from 3M

The 20-branch Austin Public Library will begin a long-term project to adopt radio frequency identification (RFID) technology by installing new SelfCheck Systems and security gates from 3M Library Systems at two branches that are currently being rebuilt and enlarged.

Austin’s library system serves a metropolitan area with a population of more than a million residents. About 80 miles to the southwest, the San Antonio Public Library system also is converting to RFID with 3M Library Systems, in a multi-phase project that began in the summer of 2007.

Library staffs in Austin have begun applying a total of approximately 76,000 RFID tags to circulating items at the current North Village and Twin Oaks branches. When the new facilities are ready for occupancy in the spring of 2009, 3M will install three SelfCheck System V-Series units in each of the two branches, along with other hardware and software for collection management functions. The SelfCheck systems enable customers to check out items and perform other tasks without the assistance of a staff member.

Also to be installed are a 3M conversion station for the tagging process and, for security, a 3M Model 8900 dual-corridor detection system at North Village and two 3M Model 8900 single-corridor detection systems at Twin Oaks. The detection systems help ensure that items have been properly checked out before leaving the library.

“The opening of these two reconstructed and fully modern branches provides a good opportunity to begin a gradual process to bring the library system online with RFID, so that we have the technology to stay abreast of rising demand for library services,” said Joseph Faulk, the library’s IT manager. “Using RFID for circulation, inventory and security will help create a seamless operation for maximum efficiency.”

The Austin City Council approved the purchases for North Village and Twin Oaks in September. The library expects that completion of a system-wide conversion will require about five years.

Rory Yanchek, 3M Track and Trace Solutions general manager, observes that as public library systems face growing demand they are commonly embracing RFID technology, often choosing 3M Library Systems. “It’s the recognized way to accommodate more services without having the luxury of a bigger budget,” he said, citing the libraries of West Palm Beach, FL; Cheyenne, WY, and even Paris, France as recent examples of institutions that have chosen 3M to help them achieve their expansion goals.

Libraries using RFID technology are especially focused on the durability and reliability of the tags, according to Yanchek. “3M RFID tags are designed to satisfy today’s demanding library applications, and we warranty that they will last as long as the items to which they are affixed,” he said.