RE: CybraryRSVP and CybraryQ

[Eric Rhee <erhee@xxxxxxxxxx>]

The Chula Vista Public Library uses Pharos for both reservations and the
print release station. We were a beta test site for the reservation module
because at the time CybraryN didn't offer it.
We authenticate Internet/PC use through an API that looks at the Innovative
patron record. (We use  2002 Phase 1 which may or may not have anything to
do with the following). With this setup, in order use use even the express
stations one needs a library card.  We issue guest cards good only for
computer use for one week and purge the guest card/number from Milcirc
(create lists function)  (see problem below w/Pharo patron file)

 Problem:  Pharos does not "see" PIN numbers set up through the circ module.
Staff must assist creating PINS through create-a-pin in the OPAC. Problem:
Pharos creates a separate patron log.  Two problems here:  We can block or
delete a patron in Milcirc but due to the separate Pharos file they can
still logon and use the computers, 2)and for Patriot Act purposes, we think
having a record of patron's computer use is undesirable.  Sure, we can
delete the Pharos file, but that takes time. Problem:  Double booking:
Pharos has double booked many times and finally we think Pharos Inc. has
taken care of it but it took months.  Problem:  we thought we were doing
people a favor and that it would be simplier than a list, but it requires
staff intervention in a different way.  Now instead of arguing w/ staff over
the reservation time and grace period on the list, they argue about people
who went to the sign up station after they did and got a computer before
they did.  They happens when a person logs off a computer and it goes back
into the reservation queue and the "lucky" person just happens to be making
a reservation at that moment. Problem:  The Pharos print script is
confusing.  At your computer it asks you to name your job and select a
password.  At the print release station the script is worded differently
(but requires the aforementioned info) and people get confused and put in
their PIN or library card number or Lord knows what, but they don't connect
it with the print job naming ritual they performed seated at the computer.
Staff intervention. Problem;  Our Pharos system only accepts a mag stripe
card as payment for print jobs.  (The Trac cards cost us 50 cents each)
People who are occasional users or only want to print one page (15 cents)
get angry when told they must purchase a Trac card for $1.00.  Staff must
intervene and uses a staff card and collects the cash, makes change etc.
etc.  So, don't promise your staff miracles or lay off staff in the belief
it is more "self-service". It isn't.  Grrrr. Sincerely, Eric Rhee  P.S. we
staff with a combination of para-professional and librarians.  If you have a
computer center, or special room, that helps. We don't in one library and do
in the other branch. 

-----Original Message-----
From: Doug Guthrie [mailto:doug.guthrie@xxxxxxxxxx]
Sent: Friday, May 09, 2003 1:10 PM
To: INNOPAC@xxxxxxxxxx
Subject: CybraryRSVP and CybraryQ


We currently use the CybraryN Internet control program on the public
Internet computers.  We are interested in the CybraryRSVP or the
CybraryQ reservation programs to eliminate the paper waiting lists we
currently maintain.  If you are using one of the Cybrary reservation
products, please let me know how well it works for your needs and if it
reduces staff workloads.  If anyone is using another public Internet
computer reservation program (and Internet timer control program),
please let me know how well it works for your needs and if it reduces
staff workloads.

Thank you.

*******************************************************
Doug Guthrie, Library Information Resources Coordinator
Saint Paul Public Library
90 West Fourth Street
Saint Paul, MN 55102
Email:  doug.guthrie@xxxxxxxxxx
Fax:  651-266-7060
Phone:  651-266-7078
Voice Mail:  651-266-7095 ext. 7078
*******************************************************


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