Checkpoint Systems, Inc. (NYSE: CKP), the leading provider of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to libraries, announced that the Alhambra Public Library in suburban Los Angeles will install Checkpoint's Intelligent Library System(TM) (ILS). Alhambra, which has a combined collection of 150,000 volumes and a circulation of more than 550,000 items per year, will replace its existing electromagnetic system with the ILS in an effort to speed up material flow and reduce the possibility of repetitive stress injuries.
Alhambra joins the Cerritos Millennium Library in Cerritos, California, the University of Pennsylvania Annenberg Library and Rockefeller University Library in New York in its decision to implement Checkpoint's RFID technology. After installing the ILS system, these libraries have realized significant operational improvements by reducing materials handling time by as much as 75%.
"Checkpoint's Intelligent Library System will provide our patrons with a more pleasant and efficient library experience," said Stephanie Beverage, Library Director. "With the ILS and its radio frequency technology, our circulation staff can use the same method for checking out all items, eliminating the burden of having to use different and time-consuming methods for checking out books and audio/visual materials. This will reduce the lengthy lines that build during peak times."
Checkpoint's ILS, built on leading-edge RFID technology, is based on the Company's vast experience in library loss prevention and RF technology. The ILS will provide Alhambra's patrons with self-check-out and check-in, inventory control, circulation management, and loss-prevention, all integrated into a seamless system. The ILS can eliminate the labor of manual material checkout and return processes, while controlling losses through advanced electronic article surveillance technology.
The ILS employs a single technology supporting both material handling and security applications, and is based on technology developed by Checkpoint. It functions via a unique RFID circulation circuit(TM) embedded inside the collections. This circuit operates within its own local network (LAN) of RFID readers placed at appropriate locations throughout the library, including the library entry/exit where it functions as a security alert, triggering an alarm when books are removed from the library without permission. The ILS system processes up to 30 books a second and is the fastest system available for libraries.
"The ILS benefits library professionals and their patrons by redefining the library experience," said Emmett Erwin, Director, Library Division at Checkpoint Systems. "By reducing the resources librarians must devote to operational tasks such as circulation control and inventory, the ILS frees them to provide greater value and personalized attention to their patrons."
Checkpoint Systems, Inc., a $700 million multinational company, is a pioneer in the development of RFID technology for libraries and other industries, and is the world's leading provider of digital radio frequency electronic article surveillance (RF EAS) systems. The company also markets laser and thermal printers and CCTV systems designed to improve efficiency, reduce costs and provide value-added solutions for customers across many markets and industries. Checkpoint Systems, Inc.'s web site is located at www.checkpointsystems.com. For more information on RFID libraries, contact eerwin@checkpt.com.
