Widener Library to Cut Costs With Computerized Circulation

Widener Library will install this spring a new, fully computerized circulation system which may lead to savings of $30,000 annually, according to the terms of a contract signed yesterday by Hale Champion, vice president for finances.

The system, which uses an optical scanner to record information, totally eliminates the manual steps currently needed to charge out library materials.

Speed and Accuracy

Louis E. Martin, head librarian, explained yesterday that the new system would facilitate more accurate recording of library transactions and quicker retrieval of books from the stacks.

"It will make the withdrawal of books easier for students and the library staff, and it will be more economical than the present system," Martin said.

Cost $85,000

The optical scanning system--designed by Computer Library Services, Inc. (CLSI)--will cost $85,000 to install but will reduce the number of library staff members involved in supervising the circulation process. "We are substituting machine costs for people costs," Martin explained.

The automatic nature of the system will increase Widener's efficiency by providing for a "fool-proof way of trapping delinquent patrons," and eliminating delays in issuing overdue notices, Charles W. Husbands, systems librarian, said yesterday.

To Begin in Spring

Martin said that the fully computerized process would be used in conjunction with the present system during the spring and summer to test its functioning, before replacing it totally next September.

If the CLSI system proves successful in Widener, it will be adapted for use in Lamont, Hilles and Science Center libraries.

Providence Uses Similar System

Similar systems are already in operation in nine other library systems, including the Providence Public libraries, a spokesman for CLSI said yesterday.