Library technology upgrades outlined; RFID replacement will go to City Council

Library staff told trustees they are in the vendor-selection stage for several technology projects and that one procurement will need City Council approval.

"We are now in the vendor and equipment selection phase to be followed by contract negotiations," Andrea Hilliard said, describing the supplier review for a new radio frequency identification (RFID) system that will replace equipment installed in 2016 and affect self-check kiosks, automated materials handlers and security gates. Hilliard said procurement "does require city council approval."

Hilliard also reviewed an integrated library system (ILS) upgrade that produced a limited service interruption on Oct. 13 — affected services included online payments, placing holds, new user registration, account access and authentication to Hoopla, Canopy and Libby — and described a patron-printer replacement moving the system to integrated Xerox devices to improve printing and scanning workflows.

On user feedback, Hilliard noted the department launched a Net Promoter Score (NPS) survey on Sept. 10, 2025 to capture patron satisfaction and said staff plan to operate the survey for a year to establish a baseline and consider on-site tablets or direct links for easier responses.

Why it matters: the RFID replacement and associated contract will change circulation infrastructure and requires council sign-off; the NPS and printer updates are intended to improve patron experience.

Next steps: staff will complete vendor selection and bring procurement to City Council for approval where required.