How to keep high security standards while allowing self-checkout?

Question

A handful of libraries in the area are allowing self-checkout for established patrons. This is limited to books for the time being, as items like DVDs are locked in plexiglass cases and must still be handled by a library staff member before patrons leave the building. Other high-value items have similar deterrents.

A simple solution would be to let the patrons dismantle any security precautions themselves during the self-checkout process, but this does not defend against dishonest patrons, and of course basically enables casual thefts.

The best idea would be to just require library personnel for checkout, but allowing patrons to self-checkout frees up the staff to do their countless other responsibilities.

How could the library maintain the security devices and reap their benefits, while allowing patrons this autonomy?

Answer 1

Anecdata: At MPOW (academic library) we took a look a few years ago at the cost of stripping our books as compared to our loss rates, and determined that our loss rate would have to increase like 5000% to make up for what we pay for the strips + the processing time for them. As a result, we now only security strip books above a certain cost threshold.

So while that story is anecdata, you probably have the data for your library so you can see whether this is a real concern.

Answer 2

I don't think you do. By choosing a self-checkout solution you are choosing something between security and convenience; as your choice tends toward convenience there is a higher risk of loss.

Answer 3

At our library we use 3M self-check machines and have an "unlocker" machine placed next to the self-check in those branches currently using RFID. Both machines are connected through a PC and when a DVD or CD is placed in the unlocker, that machine queries the self-check as to checked out/not checked out status. If the item is checked out, then the security case is unlocked. Of course, the system doesn't work when A/V from other branches are sent to fill reserve requests. In that type of situation, we have to convert each item to RFID even though it doesn't belong to that specific branch. Yikes! The belief is that this will keep everything on our self-service reserve shelves secure.

Answer 4

Put the self-checkout machine(s) next to your information or checkout counter, or somewhere else where a librarian is already present. Whether the materials are sensitized or not, this acts as a deterrent to theft without having to assgign another librarian to checkout.

Answer 5

I go to four public libraries regularly.

1. Approach 1: de-magnitizes the strip when using the self checkout machine. (or doesn't on occasion which is how I know it really works.)
2. Approach 2: honor system. I know this because I forgot to checkout once and was halfway down the block before I realized it. And yes, I went back to actually check out the book.
3. Approach 3: a security guard who checks your receipt and hassles you if bringing any library books from home that you didn't check out that day.
4. Approach 4: can't tell if de-magnitizing is happening here.

Interestingly enough 1 & 2 are from the library system. 3 & 4 are from another system but one is in midtown manhattan so you expect things to be different.

Answer 6

I think it was KCLS (in rural Kansas) that was able to maintain small libraries' circulation largely or completely unstaffed using self-checkout systems. Not everybody can accomplish this, but it is remarkable that some can.

However, I don't think you can say it is the "same" level of security, unless you concede that staff don't currently keep anyone from walking out w/ uncirculated items or that there is already very little risk from your users. It's cost/benefit.

Answer 7

We have RFID self-check on all our collections, with the security on items removed and cases unlocked when they are issued. We have security gates as well with the RFID, which usually picks up when people either have forgotten they have issued, or haven't done so properly. We have also had instances, where people have tried to walk out with items and been caught by security and basically just dumped the item and run.

We have had this system for two years now and approximately half of our loans go through self-check. Since then, we have lost less items than when everything was borrowed through staff managed loans.

The system is not perfect, but its more secure than what we used to have and as our stats show, our borrowers love the self-serve component of it.

Answer 8

In our library we use the Cube system (www.allcirc.com). Doesn't need RFID or anythign like that, yet keeps everything safe. Also, fully self-service.

Here is a case study that I did with them that will put everything in perspective: latcorp.com/marketing/Elko_case_study_R1.pdf - basically, CDs are stored inside and are never given out unless its a valid patron, therefore, can't steal, no nead to spend money on security.