subject: Lat-stena- The Ultimate Self Check Out System [print this page] A key problem facing libraries today is the challenge of housing their new media collections (i.e., CD/DVD/BluRay/HD/Games), which is by far the fastest growing circulation segment of virtually every library. At the same time, with library budgets shrinking, it becomes imperative to secure this expensive new media as library theft has become a common occurrence. As the collection increases, many libraries have taken to keeping their collections behind the circ-desk in order to keep them secure. This often makes it more difficult and time-consuming for those to have staff dispense items to patrons.
Some libraries have taken to using inefficient lock cases, while others keep their media behind the circ-desk in binders. In many cases, once the patron requests an item, the staff member must search for the item amongst potentially 1000s of selections, taking up time that could be devoted elsewhere all while an irate patron is waiting to get the items. In addition, the storage requirement to house so many items behind the circulation desk is prohibitive.
Technology has stepped in to ease this strain on libraries and their staff. Many options have been presented to keep the new media safe. One such option is RFID a tagging system that allows libraries to keep track of their collection, while making inventory a much simpler process. This option however; does not fully address the issue of resource management.
One innovative company LAT has come up with technology that addresses the issue of resource management, as well as security with the LAT-STENATM.
The LAT-STENATM is a collection of POD devices used to store CDs/DVDs/BluRay/HD/Games. Each POD is a small stand alone, automated device, specifically made for LAT with additional sensors, hardened mechanics and other design enhancements to provide a device that will be capable of withstanding harsh, high-volume library environments and be able to automatically retrieve any disk within its domain in less than 4 seconds. All librarians must do is simply click a button on their desktop during the normal check-out procedure, and LAT-STENATM goes to work and will indicate the exact location of the desired media.
With new media encompassing almost 80% of many libraries budgets, ensuring the safety of these items is fundamental, and technology is answering the call to provide products that address all of these needs.
