[Web4lib] Library cards

[Jesse Ephraim]

Our patrons can set up an account (based on their library card number)
to use when printing from our computers, but we don't have a way to do
the same for copying. 

We officially allow people to use their smartphones as library cards.
With our patrons, the real risk is minimal versus the customer service
opportunity.  

Jesse Ephraim

Director, Roanoke Public Library
308 S. Walnut
Roanoke, Texas 76262
(817) 491-2691
jephraim at roanoketexas.com



-----Original Message-----
From: web4lib-bounces at webjunction.org
[mailto:web4lib-bounces at webjunction.org] On Behalf Of Sarah Campany
Sent: Wednesday, November 03, 2010 4:17 PM
To: web4lib at webjunction.org
Subject: [Web4lib] Library cards

1. I am wondering if any public libraries are using library cards that
patrons can preload with funds to pay for library services like printing
and copying. Right now we only have "coin boxes" that take coins , $1s
and $5s. Often patrons have no cash at all or we end up making change.
Going to some sort of credit card payment system might be an option too.
But then patrons with out credit cards (including kids) couldn't use it.


2. Some patrons try to use their library barcode on their smartphone.
Our scanners won't read the barcode and we won't use the library card
number because we don't have any control over the security of the card
number. But it seems like in some ways it is more secure. If i drop my
card in the parking lot, someone could pick it up and use it.  My iphone
is password protected. How are your libraries handling this?






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