We've had this discussion earlier this year and it comes up now and again. A barcode represents a number. The unique number is the thing which creates the patron record. There is nothing special about the barcode, or a qr code. It's just a way to display a number. For our institution, you can key in your number at the self check. The thing you must have is the card number and your pin number. Whether you write it on a sticky note, have it scanned in your phone app or have the original card does not matter to us. If you provide a self check and allow people to key in their numbers, it stands to reason that you would extend them the courtesy of having their cards scanned into a convenient app. I have all of my loyalty and barcode cards in the Keyring app. Kelli Perkins Head of Reference Services Herrick District Library 300 S River Ave, Holland MI 49423 616.355.3718 kperkins@herrickdl.org Reading: "Wool" by Hugh Howey Reading: "The Proving Ground" by Bruce Knecht Listening: "Cuckoo's Calling" by Galbraith/Rowling ________________________________________ From: michlib-l-bounces@mail.mcls.org <michlib-l-bounces@mail.mcls.org> on behalf of Marth Lee <mlee@orionlibrary.org> Sent: Wednesday, September 18, 2013 1:49 PM To: michlib-l@mail.mcls.org Subject: [Michlib-l] Library cards scanned into phones Collective Wisdom, Do you accept library cards scanned into a phone to check materials out from your library? If so, do you require additional ID or do you have a library ap to use with the scanned card? What are the pros and cons of accepting or rejecting scanned library cards? Currently we only accept a library card or personal ID (such as a driver's license or student ID) for checking out materials. We have not accepted scanned library cards, but are considering it. I have followed arguments for and against, and am wondering how common the acceptance of scanned cards is in Michigan. Thank you for your input! Martha Lee Head of Support Services Orion Township Public Library, MI _______________________________________________ Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@lists.mcls.org http://lists.mlcnet.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l