The Robeson County Public Library in Lumberton, N.C., is installing the latest radio-frequency identification technology (RFID) from the Integrated Technology Group (ITG), a division of Vernon Library Supplies Inc. The new system will work in conjunction with the library’s existing integrated library system from Polaris, a pioneer in library automation. The library will be installing tag programming stations, staff stations, Apex XpressCheck patron self-service kiosks, Apex RFID security pedestals and a shelf-reading system, as well as RFID tags.

"ITG and Polaris have worked closely to bring the Robeson County Public Library an integrated technology solution that is not only functionally rich, but also works well within the library's existing infrastructure,” said Ken Evans, vice president of sales for ITG. “Because of our alliance with Polaris, the library can be sure that both partners provide the technical and application knowledge to implement technology that makes sense and serves the library's day-to-day needs."

The Robeson County Library serves nearly 130,000 people each year. In addition to its growing print collection of 152,000 items, the library also houses the Hoyland Livermore Jennings Genealogy and Local History Room. The room contains more than 2,000 books, including approximately 300 histories of families with ties to Robeson County. The genealogies also contain the histories of numerous local churches and small towns in the county.

“Of all the systems we looked at, the ITG technology in conjunction with Polaris was the best fit for our library,” said Rachel Holderied, Adult Services department head for Robeson County Library. “The new technology will allow us to free up more staff time to help patrons. It also provides us with a much-needed security system.”

Staff members and patrons will begin using the new system by the end of February.

“Our relationship with ITG provides our integrated library solutions (ILS) customers with another high quality RFID solution,” said Bill Schickling, president & CEO of Polaris Library Systems. “This partnership allows us to remain focused on enhancing our core ILS functionality, while continuing to help our customers better serve their patrons.”

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