Page 197 - DLIS003_LIBRARY ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGEMENT

Library Administration and Management

Notes Gray explained. "An expectation of a 25 percent increase in the first year would be
conservative. But staffing for circulation and material handling will actually decrease by
30 percent, thanks to the automated materials handling and RFID system." Overall staffing
is expected to rise by about 20 percent.

Although automated materials handling systems are available with barcode scanners,
Gray said these "put a burden on patrons. Why would we install a system that increases
our productivity but puts a burden on our customers? Who's working for whom?"
In contrast, he said, RFID is "much easier, much more intuitive and a boon to our patrons."
The Darien Library's decision to go with 3M's system was based on the company's
technology and products, as well as "its standing and its financial presence." Gray said.
"We're confident they will maintain leadership. They get the market and they will be
there when we start installation.”
Questions
1. How RFID and automated materials handling technology has reduced the staff
hours devoted to circulation section?
2. Elaborate the importance of RFID technology in library automation.
Source: http://multimedia.3m.com/mws/mediawebserver?mwsId=66666UuZjcFSLX
TtmxfXMXM6EVuQEcuZgVs6EVs6E666666--

10.6 Summary

Circulation is an activity whereby the library materials are lent to the borrowers and
records of the loans transactions are kept in an orderly way.
Circulation is a necessary ongoing activity. As the environment of the library changes, his
circulation operations must also adapt.
Circulation is a major public relations activity because all users directly interact with the
system.

Charging and discharging are central to any circulation system. Circulation systems have
evolved gradually from mere controlling and conservative methods to service-oriented
systems.

There are two types of charging systems that are widely used in the Indian Libraries. They
are namely: Browne charging system and Newark Charging System.

The planning and management of circulation is very important and requires careful;
consideration keeping in view all the factors involved such as volume and variety of
material available on loan, the types of clientele, items that can be issued on loan and the
loan period, overdue charges and the choice of charging systems, personnel, equipment.
Another important function of circulation is the records maintenance and generation and,
analysis of statistical information.
An on-going important activity like circulation needs efficient management, constant
review and evaluation.

10.7 Keywords

Circulation: Circulation is an activity whereby library materials are lent to borrowers and
records of such loan transactions are kept in an orderly way.

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