Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Technology Procurement topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Library board approves replacement RFID system, awards contract to FE Technologies
Summary
Trustees voted to contract with FE Technologies to replace the library’s 18‑year-old RFID system, approving a ~ $30,000 purchase and a warranty/maintenance plan to begin in year two; one trustee abstained from the vote.
The Franklin Public Library Board of Trustees approved a contract to replace the library’s RFID system at the board’s Jan. 27 meeting, awarding the work to FE Technologies after reviewing competing quotes from FE Technologies and BiblioTecha.
Jennifer, the library director, presented two vendor quotes and described requested equipment and placements: three self-check stations (including an adjustable-height unit for children), six desk pads for circulation desks, and replacement entrance/exit gates. FE Technologies’ equipment-and-delivery quote presented to the board was $29,769 with an annual maintenance price of $2,182 starting in year two. A competing quote from BiblioTecha was higher on both upfront cost and ongoing support.
Jennifer said FE Technologies is a newer entrant to the U.S. market but cited positive user reports from another library system that has adopted FE equipment; BiblioTecha was described as an established supplier with a long track record. The director recommended FE Technologies to the board.
After discussion about warranties, disposal of old equipment and tag pricing, a motion to contract with FE Technologies for the replacement system was made and carried. The board recorded one abstention; the motion passed.
Jennifer said installations could begin quickly after contract approval, with hardware deliveries expected within about a month. The board asked staff to follow up on warranty details and training schedules for staff on new self-check systems.
