Updated scanning equipment will be installed at libraries across the Bundaberg Region this week, including a new self-loan station at Woodgate Library.
Bundaberg Library will be closed to the public on Tuesday 13 May while new equipment is delivered, old equipment is removed, and new security gates are installed at the front entrance.
While all other libraries will remain open, on 15 May the entrance to Childers Library will be through the courtyard door to the right of the main door while new security gates are installed.
The libraries’ current Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) equipment includes self-loan stations, self-return shelves, security gates, stocktaking equipment and staff pads which allow staff to assist customers at the counter and process items.
Council’s Arts and Heritage portfolio spokesperson Councillor John Learmonth said the current RFID equipment was showing some signs of under-performance as it reached end of life.
“This equipment is designed to last around five years and ours is now eight years old,” Cr Learmonth said.
“We were able to keep this equipment for longer than its expected five-year lifespan while it was performing, but the time has come where it needs to be replaced.”
Cr Learmonth said the new self-loan station at Woodgate would be of great benefit to both library staff and users.
“Woodgate Library does not currently have a self-loan facility, so this new station will bring the Woodgate library further in line with our other branches and allow community members the option to loan their own items if they choose to.” Cr Learmonth said.
“A staff member will still attend to operate the Woodgate Library which is open on Wednesdays from 10 am to 2 pm.”
What is RFID?
RFID identifies library items with tags that are read by the self-loan and self-return machines when books are borrowed or returned.
Unlike barcodes which require line of sight to be read by the barcode reader, RFID has a read zone which enables multiple items to be borrowed or returned at the same time.
Please note: While RFID installations are currently scheduled to take place from 13 to 16 May, dates may be subject to change.
Other news: Helen marks 25 years of JP service
