RFID and AMH Consultation with Regina Public Library (Saskatechewan)

Regina Public Library (RPL) is in the early stages of its Central Library Renewal initiative. Begun in 2019 with a comprehensive Needs Assessment and Project Plan for Central Library Renewal, the project includes a plan to upgrade the library system to RFID and implement automated materials handling (AMH). The Library seeks a consultant to ensure staff understand the RFID and AMH market options and opportunities that are available and to provide recommendations for identifying products and/or functionality that would benefit the Library and help RPL achieve their strategic goals.

Lori Ayre will work with the library to:

  • Review and provide feedback to internally developed AMH Assessment
  • Supplement existing AMH space assessment as needed
  • Provide information about state-of-the-art products in the following categories:
    • Materials induction systems
    • Sorting systems
    • RFID gates for more than just security
    • RFID shelving solutions
    • New, innovative products based on RFID
  • Provide RFID and AMH recommendations and act as broker with regard to potential vendors and suppliers
  • Assist with procurement of RFID and possibly AMH
  • Assist with planning for RFID and AMH implementation

RFID And Materials Handling Workflow Assessment for Consortium

The members of the Ocean State Libraries (OSL) consortium are considering moving to RFID as a consortium.  Some members are currently using RFID while others are not. Lori Ayre will be working with the libraries to provide a cost estimate for moving all members to RFID and also helping them determine whether that is the right course of action.  Ayre will be evaluating their circulation and materials handling workflows and providing recommendations for how to efficiently address their primary pain points and position themselves for the future. 

Library RFID and Self-Service Consultation

Assisted the Library in evaluating opportunities for implementing RFID and self-service technologies. Engagement includes developing procurement and implementation strategy and facilitating procurement process from RFP development to contract negotiation.  Originally planned to include automated materials handling as part of the procurement but these plans were delayed due to plans related to library remodel and/or new building.

The Library is currently using Innovative Interface's Express Lane for self-check and will be comparing the benefits of adding RFID to their existing Express Lane systems versus moving to self-check systems provided by the RFID vendor.