Empowering Libraries During Hard Times

Sunnyvale Public Library

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The Sunnyvale (Calif.) Public Library serves a population of 140,000 people.  The library is very well-used, with approximately 2.5 million items circulated a year and an average of 2,000 people per day who utilize the library.  As the economy experienced a downturn, circulation went up 37% while staffing went down 13%.

In order to deliver the same service with fewer staff, technology played a key role in aiding the library.  Sunnyvale Public Library went live with a range of RFID solutions from Bibliotheca including a 21-bin BiblioSort automated materials handling system.  Lisa Rosenblum, director of the library, said, “When we implemented RFID technology, the first benefit we noticed was that our materials were checked in instantly.  Our customers were happier.”  The Bibliotheca 21-bin sorting system can presort items more quickly and get items on the shelves in less time.  Now, staff can concentrate on less-tedious tasks and assist customers out on the floor with more complex matters.  According to Rosenblum, “Our library is committed to expanding and improving library service to the public.  So, when we made the decision to invest in RFID, we knew that investment really wasn’t just about technology.  Our investment is about ensuring that the self-service options in our library run more efficiently and effectively to better serve our customers and employees.”

The library went from 50% self-service with barcodes to 90% self-service with Bibliotheca RFID, providing a better service to patrons.  Another aspect of the RFID system is the ability to integrate the RFID system with the library’s existing ILS, Millennium Express Lane.  Library staff and patrons were able to save time and effort by not having to learn a new ILS.