EM security systems are based on proven technology. A magnetic strip is adhered to a book or attached to a CD, DVD or videotape (or its case). The dimensions of the strip and its appearance vary to accommodate the size of the item and the need to conceal the strip’s presence. During check-out, if an item has not been deactivated, the security gate at the library’s entrance/exit will detect the strip and will sound an alert. When the item is returned, the EM strip is reactivated witha device similar to the deactivation device. Properly designed devices appropriately change the strip status, but do not harm magnetic media such as audio or videotape. Forreference materials, many manufacturers also offer an EM strip that cannot be deactivated. EM security systems do not read or respond to barcodes or RFID (radio frequency identification) tags and therefore cannot be used to check out materials or manage shelves. Their sole function is to detect the unauthorised removal of materials.
System performance: EM security systems are reliable and effective. The magnetic strips are covert—their presence and location (in books / print material) are difficult to detect and remove—and can’t be shielded by the human body or most other materials. High quality strips can be turned on and off repeatedly over years with no degradation of signal strength. As a result, these strips, when activated, are detected virtually every time they come within the range of the detectors. Because the strips can be fully deactivated, unwanted alarms are rare and becoming more so. (Historically, unwanted alarms could happen once for every 50 items checked out; today, with advances in EM security systems like the 3M™ SelfCheck™ System V-Series, unwanted alarms occur only once in 10,000 checkouts.) EM security systems are currently installed in thousands of libraries worldwide, where they protect billions of books and other media. EM systems, however, like other public appliances, should be thoroughly tested by a third-party product safety testing and certification organisation.
Implementation: Most small and medium-sized libraries will find that the cost of an EM security system (including strips, detection equipment and accessories) is recouped in a year or two through reduced expenditures on lost items. Staff time required to implement an EM system will vary depending on the model and manufacturer. (Some manufacturers offer an application process that can be up to five times faster than hand insertion.) Once the EM security system has been installed, maintenance is typically not a major consideration. The detection and activation devices are durable and effective; the magnetic strips require little or no upkeep or replacement during the life of the item. Integrating new items into the collection requires only the application of the EM strip.