[Michlib-l] Library cards scanned into phones

[Kelli Perkins]

We've had this discussion earlier this year and it comes up now and again.

A barcode represents a number. The unique number is the thing which creates the patron record. There is nothing special about the barcode, or a qr code. It's just a way to display a number.

For our institution, you can key in your number at the self check. The thing you must have is the card number and your pin number. Whether you write it on a sticky note, have it scanned in your phone app or have the original card does not matter to us. 

If you provide a self check and allow people to key in their numbers, it stands to reason that you would extend them the courtesy of having their cards scanned into a convenient app. I have all of my loyalty and barcode cards in the Keyring app.

Kelli Perkins
Head of Reference Services
Herrick District Library
300 S River Ave, Holland MI 49423
616.355.3718
kperkins at herrickdl.org

Reading: "Wool" by Hugh Howey
Reading: "The Proving Ground" by Bruce Knecht
Listening: "Cuckoo's Calling" by Galbraith/Rowling

________________________________________
From: michlib-l-bounces at mail.mcls.org <michlib-l-bounces at mail.mcls.org> on behalf of Marth Lee <mlee at orionlibrary.org>
Sent: Wednesday, September 18, 2013 1:49 PM
To: michlib-l at mail.mcls.org
Subject: [Michlib-l] Library cards scanned into phones

Collective Wisdom,
      Do you accept library cards scanned into a phone to check
materials out from your library?  If so, do you require additional ID or
do you have a library ap to use with the scanned card?  What are the
pros and cons of accepting or rejecting scanned library cards?
Currently we only accept a library card or personal ID (such as a
driver's license or student ID) for checking out materials.  We have not
accepted scanned library cards, but are considering it.  I have followed
arguments for and against, and am wondering how common the acceptance of
scanned cards is in Michigan.

Thank you for your input!

Martha Lee
Head of Support Services
Orion Township Public Library, MI
_______________________________________________
Michlib-l mailing list
Michlib-l at lists.mcls.org
http://lists.mlcnet.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l