Case Study

Self-Service Automation – Let your creativity take control!

Libraries continue to face the challenge of staff reduction combined with increased patron usage. Checking in and out library materials, renewing books and re-shelving materials are only a fraction of the daily responsibilities for most librarians. Imagine having some of those routine tasks lifted off your shoulders, allowing staff to provide better service and attention to your patrons.

With 24-hour return stations, you can increase your library’s circulation while improving your staff’s workflow ergonomics. Let’s take a look at how libraries are now able to save time and eliminate repetitive tasks by creatively utilizing mk Return Stations and Sorting Systems.

The University of Toronto Library system is the largest academic library in Canada, so a sorting system was an obvious solution. Placing their return stations near the entrance of the library allows convenient drop off for patrons while at the same time immediately checking in the item, re-activating the security and sorting the item for simple returns to the shelf. This allows for increased circulation and faster availability for checked out items. Not ready to implement RFID? That’s okay – University of Toronto’s system reads barcode labels with the option to upgrade to RFID in the future.

“We wanted to improve the service to our patrons by providing 24-hour, reliable, and confirmed check-in of library materials. For library staff, the sorting component of this new system enables faster re-shelving and a change in focus toward enhancing other access services,” explains Lari Langford, Head of Access and Information Services at the University of Toronto Robarts Library.

“The high quality and safety compliance features of mk's product and the innovative company profile are key factors in our decision,” adds Langford.

Say hello to Otto. Otto resides at the San Carlos Library, one of San Mateo County’s libraries in California. The library dressed up this return station with glasses and a bowtie in order to engage children to want to return their library books to the correct location.

Hamilton Public Library had very limited space on the first floor of the library, but knew that adding a sorting system to their central location would help to increase circulation. By maximizing the limited first floor area and utilizing unused basement space, they were able to effectively implement the system.

“The sorters from mk at our four HPL locations have helped us increase circulation by 2 million items, freeing staff to provide more direct service,” recounts Paul Takala, Hamilton Public Library’s Director of Digital Technology. “We know that adding the sorting system to our Central Library will further increase our circulation. mk was chosen based on technical qualification, cost competitiveness, and a well-engineered custom design — giving our library great quality and value,” explains Takala.

One of Mountain View Public Library’s return stations is made even more accessible by allowing patrons to drive up to the station and return any checked-out library items.

Each library has unique requirements and deserves a solution that is tailored to their environment and individual needs. The advantage of working with mk Sorting Systems is that you are given an endless amount of possible solutions and customizing options for AMH implementation.

mk Sorting Systems, a subsidiary of mk Technology Group, develops and installs user-friendly self service, sorting and RFID systems and book dispensing solutions for libraries. mk offers individual, customized automation solutions designed to meet each library’s specific needs. For more information, email info@mk-sorting-systems.com or call 860-760-0438. Visit mk Sorting Systems on the web at www.mk-sorting-systems.com.