RFP for Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) System, RFID Tagging, Self-Check Machines, and Automated Materials Handler (AMH)

#1. Could you confirm the final date for questions to be asked?

We will accept questions through 12/18/19.

#2. Out of the 31 service and staff stations, could you explain what functionalities you would like it to have as far as software goes? Would these be for staff checkin/checkout/reporting?

All 31 service and staff stations should have check in, check out, and reporting functionality.

#3. Could you provide a breakdown of your collection (i.e. books, AV materials, etc.)?

• Books: 19,8421
• Movies: 24,519
• Music: 17,601
• Audiobooks: 9,287
• Magazines & Newspapers: 4,482
• Other: 3,225

#4. Does the Library have drawings and dimensions available for the planned AMH room?

We have reached out to our architects for this information and will post information when we have it. Please note that we will only be able to provide directional information as we plan to adjust our design once the vendor has been selected.

UPDATE 12/17: Please see this draft layout for the first floor that includes a possible space for the sorter. As the drawings indicate, we are assuming the sorter needs roughly  24'x12', not including clearances around the bins. As mentioned above, we intend to adjust the space to meet the requirements of the sorter we select.

#5. Regarding the MacOS and Macintosh computers—is the Library's expectation to run staff software with RFID equipment? (staff checkin/checkout)?

We would like to be able to have our two staff service points that use MacOS to perform checkin/checkout functions.

#6. The Library specifies that the AMH system have two indoor returns. Will the two returns serve different locations within the Library or are they providing multiple induction points from the same location within the Library (i.e. to alleviate patron queues at that location within the Library)?

Yes, there will likely be two return slots in the same location within the Library to help alleviate patron queues at that location within the lobby.

#7. On page 8 of the RFP: "AMH equipment must be UL listed..." Could the Library please clarify whether the UL requirement relates only to the electronic panels on the AMH system, or to the entire installed AMH system?

Yes, the UL requirements apply to the electronic panels.

#8. Would you like all of the tags quoted to be book tags only or would you like us to provide numbers for full coverage media tags? Our response will have recommendations on how to tag new material but if media has tattle tape on them currently, these will not work.

 We are planning to only use book tags in media cases, unless the vendor feels that is a compelling reason to use full coverage media tags. In that case, please provide pricing for both options and an explanation.

#9. Will the tag dispensers be used in Tech Services for tagging of new items?

Yes, the tag dispensers are intended for Tech Services staff to use when tagging new items.

#10. What size tags do you want for the books, 2 by 2 or 2 by 3 inches?

We prefer 2x2" RFID tags.

#11. Do your require cash/coin payment on all self-check kiosks?

Yes, we would like the self-check machines to handle cash.

#12. Self-check kiosk quantities: On page 4, you mention 3 – 6 units. And, on page 7 you mention 2 – 6 units. How many units would you prefer as a minimum? Or, do would you like us to just quote one unit?

We prefer a minimum of 3 units&emdash;two on the first floor and one on the second floor.

# 13. With the Holiday season upon us, would it be possible to extend the RFP deadline to the second week of January to provide all vendors ample time to submit the best possible response?

Yes, we will extend the deadline to 2:00pm Friday, January 3, 2020.

#14. Regarding the RFID staff stations, do you want shielded or unshielded?

We would prefer shielded pads.

#15. Please clarify what you mean by the Comprise Technologies integration requirement (page 6). Do you require additional payment integration beyond that of the payment terminal on the self-check kiosk?

CCS, the consortium of which we are a member, uses Comprise Technologies as the payment processor for credit card transactions. We were originally under the understanding that our self-check machines must integrate with Comprise Technologies, but have since learned that is not the case. Non-integrated credit card payments through self-check can use SIP to communicate with Polaris, as long as the self-check provider supports it, which is what we want.

#16. Should we price credit card terminals as an option for the Self Check Kiosks?

Yes, please price credit card terminals as an option for the Self Check Kiosks.

#17. What type of information do you require for Scope of Work requirement (page 10, #10 in the Response Requirements section)? Would this be where you would like the Technical Requirements section (page 5 – 6)?

By Scope of Work, we mean a description of the work to be performed by the successful vendor. For example: timeline, milestones, deliverables, progress reports, and end products we can expect to be provided by the vendor. This could include the Technical Requirements. 

#18. The AMH drawing you provided this week does not show a location for the optional external patron book drop requested on page 4 of the RFP. Would you like us to just quote one external book drop to deposit into one stand-alone bin?

If we are able to offer an external drop, it would likely go on the west side of the building and run to the handler (on the posted drawing, the top of the page is north). That said, we are open to considering other options that would allow patrons to return and check-in items outside the building.