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Automated Materials Handling (AMH) Super Fast Reshelving of Materials and Delivery to Awaiting Patrons When it comes to book returns and sorting systems, ITG offers a wide variety of solutions, customized to meet the needs of the largest to the smallest library.
 Apex AutoReturn™ Book Drop (RFID)The Apex AutoReturn book drop and VistaReturns™ software updates the library’s database in real time as materials are deposited in the return drop. As the items slide down the return chute, an RFID antenna reads the item’s tag and checks the item back into the system. This is especially effective in libraries that limit the number of items that patrons may have checked out at one time. Instead of waiting at a circulation desk to return their items, the patrons can drop their items in the return and proceed immediately to the stacks to select their new materials. « back to top »
Vista Sorting™ (RFID) Vista Sorting and the Apex VistaReturns™ Software is an automated conveyor system designed to accept returned items, reactivate item security, separate materials that are on reserve, and assign the other items to their appropriate locations. As items enter the system, they are identified, checked in, and sorted based on library defined criteria. Returned items are immediately ready for reshelving, already sorted into bins by subject matter or other criteria. The system can also alert staff when a bin is full and should be emptied. The automatic features of the system allow a library to experience a dramatic reduction in average returns processing time. The returns system, configured with or without a sorter will automatically print a “holds” ticket for each item that is on reserve.  “We're amazed at how efficient and accurate the Apex RFID Vista Sorting system is. In the past, we looked at conveyor belts to aid in circulation. It was actually ITG's idea to add the check-in process. Check-ins are so efficient that we no longer need additional staff members. What used to take one person two hours to do, takes the sorter 18 minutes!”
Lynne Jacobsen, Former Director of Technical Services, Warren-Newport Public Library, Gurnee, IL
Vista ShortSort™ On the face of the book drop patrons see a stop light that shows red, yellow, and green lights to let them know when to drop items, one at a time, into the chute. Once items pass through the book drop door and through the chute, they fall onto a short conveyor with an RFID reader and antenna built in and connected to a controlling computer. The conveyor has a receiving bin on each end. As items land on the conveyor, the system communicates with the circulation system. Items belonging to the library with RFID tags are checked in and security is turned on. These items are then sent to the "reshelving" bin. Items that are on hold, items with missing or damaged tags, or items that don’t belong to the library are sent to the “exceptions” bin for special handling. Holds tickets can be printed and an alert can be sent to a staff workstation announcing the arrival of a holds item. Optionally, patrons can receive a printed receipt. The ShortSort has many advantages for patrons and staff. Patrons’ items are immediately checked in as they enter the library. They no longer have to wait at checkout to be sure that previously borrowed items have been returned. Staff can immediately know when holds items have been returned. The sorter eliminates lots of special handling of materials. Staff members only have to deal with exceptions. Because the Vista ShortSort is designed to be mechanically simple and sound, with few moving parts, and small enough to fit in even tight spaces, ITG is able to keep the cost of the system low enough for even small libraries to afford the efficiencies it brings. And, even if you use another vendor’s RFID system, you can still install a ShortSort in your library. If you thought your library couldn’t afford an AMH (automated materials handling) system, you might be surprised to find out that you can. Talk to your ITG Account Manager about how you can get a Vista ShortSort for your library today.
« back to top » Library Mate® Book Return (RFID and Bar Code)
Outdoor (or Indoor) Book Return (RFID) These returns have been engineered and fine tuned to provide the optimum curbside acceptance of RFID materials. Each RFID-ready curbside unit comes standard with a custom under-chute antenna holder assembly, antenna, and full insulation to help protect the electronic equipment from weather extremes. The return also comes with Apex AutoReturn™ software that automatically checks materials back into the library’s ILS. « back to top » |
