In the future, all reservation kiosks will have barcode scanners. Wait a minute, actually they will!

Hello Everyone,
As the PCR Task Force is plugging along, planning for the implementation of PCR at all the FCPL branches, we are looking at ways of streamlining the reservation process for patrons. One such way is the use of barcode scanners at the reservation kiosks. Of course, keyboards will still be present but we want to encourage patrons to bring and use their library cards to make their reservations. The reasoning is that this will encourage patrons to realize they can reserve their computers faster if they bring their library card instead of having to enter the numbers in manually or take up staff time with having to ask for their number because they "lost it" or "left it at home". We want patrons to have their library card when they visit their branches, it makes everything go smoothly for everyone.

If having barcode scanners for patron use seems strange, consider this, at branches that have self-checkout, there are barcode scanners there and they seem to be working well. Patrons that frequent branches with self-checkout systems bring their library cards more often and request barcode lookups less. Of course there will be those that will request a barcode lookup but this will happen less frequently once patrons realize it is easier to remember their card. So what do you think of this? Please leave your comments and I will answer this as best I can. Have a great day.

J

So, April 15 came and went. What happened? A Q & A post.

Hello Everyone,
As you may (or may not) have wondered, April 15 has come and gone and PCR is not up and running. What happened? I'm sure you all have questions so I have a little Q & A post for all of you.

Q: April 15 is now past, why isn't PCR installed?

A: Unforeseen complications occurred and PCR was not installed according to the original timeline. That is all I'm at liberty to say Issues with finalizing the contract/payment with the vendor which lead to delays in our disucssions with Envisionware/PCR's technical support team. But now that thoses issues have been resolved we are moving forward rapidly and the initial installation with be at Sunnyside during the 2nd week of June.

Q: So what's next?

A: The good news is that PCR will still be installed...just a little longer than anticipated. As of right now, the plan is to have PCR installed at the original test site, Sunnyside, around the second week of June. Following this, the rest of the library sites will follow with PCR being installed.

Q: So, no PCR, what will happen with CybraryN?

A: Currently, FCPL will continue to use CybraryN until PCR is installed. As unpleasant as this sounds, it is the best option available.

Q: What about training in using PCR?

A: As we get closer to installing PCR, we will have a more definite idea regarding training.

Q: What if I have questions that are not addressed in this post?

A: Please use the comment function in this post to leave any questions for myself or the PCR Task Force. I guarantee that I monitor this blog frequently and will have an answer shortly after you post it.

That is it for now. Have a great day everyone.

J