Source
r/librarians•
grumpymeatball

Suggestions for Self Checkout Kiosks / Software?

Tech in the Library

Our library is currently closed to the public but we're planning to reopen soon. I have been researching self-checkout options but there seems to be a vast, overwhelming spectrum from ultra-fancy machines to basic software you use on a library computer. It also seems to take forever to hear back from reps about pricing and specs.

We are a mid-size public library and part of a larger consortium. We use barcodes so RFID options are not doable. We would prefer something either free-standing or table top. Any suggestions concerning brands, types, or general advice about the pros and cons. Thank you!

Posted Apr 29, 2021, 10:52 PM UTC

37
FriedRice59•

Envisionware...we have two kiosks and on table top machine. They are easy to use. Support is good and they are very cost effective.

3
grumpymeatballOP•

Thank you! I appreciate it and will definitely look into their products. Cost effective is a plus!

2
FalselyOptimistic•

3M Bibliotheca has full standing ones for about $1000, or the countertop versions are cheaper. I have not used anyone else's.

3
grumpymeatballOP•

Thank you! I'll definitely look into their options. Much appreciated.

2
BooksandDeadPeoplePublic Librarian•

Seconding Envisionware. It's what we use here. Their ILS, Evolve, though.. we're looking at moving away from it in a year or so.

2
rvd2k4•

Anything but Bibliotecha. Their support has been horrible, at lease a 5% service increase every year, and their internal teams aren’t talking well with each other. The most recent example is that I submitted a support request in February, and after not hearing back for about 1.5 weeks, I emailed the individual support team members we usually work with. To my surprise, several of them had resigned in 2020. I was told to expect a prompt response, and that was still early-ish February. I have emailed this new team several times to no avail, and today emailed the COO with a list of grievances.

If it wasn’t for them cutting us a deal in 2019, we would have switched to Envisionware like most libraries in the state.

Update: This year we were facing a 18% increase in maintenance, but we’re able to bring it down to 8%. After the renewal was submitted, I was told to expect a 70% increase next year. That was the final straw to my Director and the Board, we are dropping Bibliotecha and switching to Envisionware. Envisionware is slightly more expensive upfront, but the maintenance prices haven’t changed in years. They remain at 10% of what was purchased. I just don’t understand why or how a company can stay in business by treating their customers like this. At least those in other countries are treated better.

2
ilucam•

That's really disappointing to hear. We use Bibliotheca and have had great support throughout 2020, including a massive discount on service and maintenance fees due to Covid and campus being closed. We're in Australia, though, so different teams.

1