What is ALS?
The HK Automated Library System (ALS) utilizes an automated retrieval machine and a special integrated software control system to provide fully automated high density media archival. To preserve library collections, the ALS can operate in a controlled environment that has the proper humidity and temperature, and is free of dust and other contaminates.

How it Works
To request an item in the ALS, a patron simply uses the Library’s ordering system. The Library’s system will automatically request items held by the ALS. In most instances, the item will be waiting for the patron at the designated circulation desk in the time it takes the patron to walk to the desk.

Returned items are collected at a Library check-in location. The Library’s system will determine if the items should be sent back to the shelves or returned to the Automated Library System. Items to be returned to the ALS have their barcodes scanned at ALS workstations and the correct bin is automatically positioned in front of the operator for placement of the item in the bin. The bin is then automatically returned to its position in the ALS.

The ALS has the ability to assign items to random locations, maximizing space utilization. A computer system developed by Dematic records the location of all items for rapid retrieval. Additionally, collections, valuable items, items requiring restoration, restricted holdings, etc. can be assigned by the ALS to dedicated locations. When items are returned, the ALS will scan their barcode and return them to their proper location. The ALS has extensive management and reporting capabilities. User IDs and passwords allow the Library’s administration to restrict access to specific items and to ALS system commands and reports.

In a typical Library system, the ALS can store 450,000 volumes in an area that requires only 1/7 of the space of conventional shelving and at substantial cost savings. On a 25-year lifecycle cost basis, the ALS solution is conservatively one-half the cost of a conventional solution.