| |
| |
Borrowing / Multi-Purpose Station |
| The Do-It-Yourself multi-purpose station that can serve borrowing, returning and sorting functions |
| |
 |
| |
| |
|
The ELiMS Multi-Purpose Station (MPS) is a Do-It-Yourself, or self-service, station. MPS combines borrow, return and sort functions into a single station, or any combination of the 3 functions. It allows all library materials such as books, CDs, Video tapes, audio cassettes, computer software on diskette, DVDs and magazines to be borrowed out by the same process. Its user-friendly touch screen allows customers to access borrow and return functions and staff to access the sort function with a predefined password.
|
 |
 Borrow
|
|
|
The customer checks out the item at their own convenience by following simple instructions on the screen. These instructions can be configured to different formats and languages to suit the specific requirements of the library.
The MPS is configurable to recognise a customer using the following methods :
|
| » | PIN Code (password) |
| » | Bar-coded identification card |
| » | Magnetic card |
| » | Contact or Contactless Smart card |
| » | Biometrics (finger print etc) |
| » | Security camera |
|
|
To borrow an item, the customer presents an identification card and selects the appropriate language, if available. The customer places the item(s) onto the "pad" in front of the station. The station captures the electronic signature of the item instantaneously, and sends it to the Library Management System. Once the Library Management System approves the transaction, the station displays the item number, title of book(s), due date(s) on the screen.
At the same time, it adds to the list of borrowed items and sounds the buzzer. The reader resets the security status in the tag and allows the item to be taken out through the security gates without raising an alarm.
When all the items have been borrowed, the customer is then presented with a receipt, or alternatively e-mail, detailing the borrower's identity, date and time of transaction, the items borrowed and their due dates.
|
 |
Return
|
|
|
To return an item, the customer selects the return function. The customer places the item on the "pad" of the station. The station captures the electronic signature and sends it to the Library Management System for loan cancellation. Once confirmed, the station sets the security status of the tag and the item cannot be taken out without borrowing. The user is then presented with a screen indicating that the item has been returned. Alternatively, notification can be via e-mail or receipt print out.
|
 |
Sort
|
|
|
Sorting of items using the sorting option in MPS is very simple. Staff activate this function by entering a password. In sorting mode, staff place an item on the RF Zone and the system immediately displays on the screen, which category or compartment the item belongs to. The system literally takes away the stress and strain associated with time spent on item sorting. While the item is being scanned, the RFID tag is automatically "armed" so that the item is ready to be returned to the shelf. Due to the seamless link with the Library Management System, the staff will be prompted immediately if there are special instructions relating to the item being sorted, e.g. the book has been reserved by a customer or the item belongs to other branches.
|
 |
| |
| |
|
Key Benefits of the ELiMS Borrowing / Multi-Purpose Station :
| | Autonomous self-service station. |
| | Touch screen menu selection. |
| | One station for multiple functions and thus reducing hardware costs. |
| | Enables DIY so librarians may be released to perform more value-added customer services. |
| | Reduces queue time in library. |
| | Reduces manpower in managing the library. |
|
| |
|
| |
| |
|
Options & Enhanced features of the ELiMS Borrowing / Multi-Purpose Station :
| | Printer can be added to print details of borrow and return. |
| | Provide PIN for authentication of the borrower. |
| | Can be integrated into an e-mail server. |
| |
| The following enhancements are dependent on the capabilities of the resident LMS : |
| |
| | Support renewal process. |
| | Support customer notification if item is on hold or reserved. |
| | Support block customer notification. |
| | Support chargeable loan. |
|
Top