Issue details

Introduction of self-issue (RFID) into Kent Libraries & Archives - 10/01542

 

 

• To authorise the introduction of a combination of staff and public self-service kiosk issue of library books and other items, using RFID technology (Radio Frequency Identification). This constitutes a change in the way services are currently delivered and would deliver significant revenue savings.
• To authorise the use of the ESPO (Eastern Shires Procurement Organisation) Framework in order to procure the hardware and software required.
• To authorise the reduction in existing staff numbers by compulsory redundancies if not achieved by voluntary redundancy or natural wastage

Decision type: Key

Decision status: Implemented

Decision due: 12 Oct 2010 by Cabinet Member for Customer and Communities

Contact: Diane Chilmaid, Business Manager Email: diane.chilmaid@kent.gov.uk Tel: 01622 696420.

Consultees

Informing Only

Staff informed through staff Bulletin Extra No 22. 6th May 2010 and at Head of

Service regular meetings with Front of House staff in Districts.

Customers – communications will begin with customers once the timeline is agreed (likely to begin January 2010 and will be managed by the KL&A Communications & Public Involvement Manager and L&A Management Team.  There will also be involvement from our contracted supplier for RFID hardware who will be required to run staff and customer awareness sessions at Service points

 

Who is it necessary to consult?

All staff potentially affected directly and Unison will be consulted when timeline is clear on proposals for reduction in front of house staff FTE.

 

A Customer Impact Assessment for the project has been carried out. There should be no impact on customer access to our services, in fact this system may make services more rapidly accessible to some customers.

 

Has the matter already been discussed by a Policy, Overview and Scrutiny Committee?:

NO

 

Is the matter referred to in your Business Plan or Medium Term Capital Programme?

Yes – in the Annual Operating Plan for Libraries & Archives 2010-11

 

Already included in the MTP Capital programme for 2010-11 as an Invest to Save Option.

 

Closing date for consultation/receiving comments:

Closing date for comments 1st October 2010 (statutory formal consultation with affected staff and their union representatives would follow the decision to implement)

Financial implications: Diane Chilmaid, Business Support Manager, Kent Libraries & Archives. 01622 696420 (VPN 7000 6420), Email diane.chilmaid@kent.gov.uk

Legal implications: 10/01542

Equalities implications: The proposal involves a significant change in the way that services are delivered, in up to 36 of our largest service points countywide. While implementation will include a significant reduction in the number of customer service staff, we are optimistic that the majority of these posts can be released through natural wastage and voluntary redundancies. It is however possible that a small number of compulsory redundancies will be necessary

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