[Publib] RE: RFID tags

[James Casey]

I had heard that the frequency codes compatible with certain RFID targets require that the vendor of the self-check machines have the appropriate software.  The software is proprietary to the company that originally installed the previous system.  If Polaris (for example) doesn't have the frequency code necessary to read the existing RFID targets, you would then have to redo all of the barcodes (tags) to assure compatibility with Polaris software and its frequency coding.  Some libraries pay in the hundreds of thousands of dollars for the RFID targeting process in preparation for a particular self-checkout system.  It is supposed to "pay for itself" in saved salaries, but service agreements, software updates, etc. also cost considerable sums since the original installer has the monopoly.  --- I may be wrong about this particular case, but think you should check it out before agreeing to the purchases.

James B. Casey --- my own views
Oak Lawn Public Library
ALA Council Member


From: publib-bounces at webjunction.org [mailto:publib-bounces at webjunction.org] On Behalf Of Gray, Allison
Sent: Thursday, November 13, 2008 11:44 AM
To: publib at webjunction.org
Subject: [Publib] RFID tags


Hi All,

    We are investigating the possibility of getting RFID at our library.  In trying to research the
cost per RFID tag, I'm having trouble finding any exact cost numbers.
    If you are an RFID library, could you email me privately with recommendations for vendors
or any other info you think might be helpful?

Thanks so much,

Allison


B. Allison Gray
2009 Caldecott Committee
Supervising Librarian
Goleta  Public  Library
500 North Fairview Ave.
Goleta, CA  93117
805-964-7878
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