[OPLINLIST] Smart phone Library Card application

[Bruce Landis]

Last night we had our first appearance of a patron using their
Smartphone and a LibraryCard application. 

 

In short, this application allows the user to load their Library Card
number onto the device and then use the device to present a 'barcode'
when checking out.  It is being used for coupons and boarding passes
among other uses.

 

Example:

Use Your Smartphone as your Library Card!

CardStarYour library card can be digitized on your iPhone or iPod
touch, Android, or BlackBerry using CardStar! CardStar is an app that
allows you to consolidate your reward and club cards from grocery
stores, video stores and the like onto your smartphone. It's entirely
free and can be set up in minutes!



Results:   1. The 'barcode' as presented would not scan via our
Metrologic laser scanner.  2. The patron was rather belligerent in
demanding that we accept this method of 'ID';  3.  Circulation staff
had not had any advance familiarity or experience with this
development; 4. We have not had a policy in place for this
development.

I would like to get feedback from the Ohio Library community in a few
areas:

1.      Should this method be allowed without reservation or should
additional ID be requested to validate the device?

2.      What barcode readers or configuration settings will 'handle'
this display type?

3.      What anecdotal examples can you contribute concerning these
applications?

4.      Are you currently presenting these applications to your
patrons?

Thanks for any information you can share.

Bruce Landis

Technology Specialist 
Chillicothe and Ross County Public Library 
mailto:landisbr at oplin.org
v.(740) 702-4115 fx.(740) 702-4118 

 

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