From small public libraries to large central county libraries, there are a lot of books and other library materials to keep track of. While library cards are mainly used for circulation purposes, a library card may also functions as an access control card to protect valuable resources and materials. Choosing a library card printer depends on the size of the library and the range of functions the card will perform.
Public libraries often distribute thousands of cards per year. To keep the issuing system up and running, libraries need a reliable ID card printer to power the card program. For larger public libraries, many library card makers offer automatic card feeders for batch printing and optional modules for magnetic stripe encoding. Magnetic stripe technology stores more information than a barcode can support. Libraries can also install magnetic stripe readers as a way for members to access certain rooms or areas of the library that contain old, rare and valuable objects or equipment.
At smaller public libraries a compact, manual-feed printer offers the added advantage of portability and simple storage. This makes it easy to take the printer to any fundraiser or event to encourage library memberships and issue library cards on-the-spot.