What's Hot
The latest in library products & furnishings
Compiled by Ann Kim -- Library Journal, 05/15/2007
To see pictures of all the products listed in this article, visit our What's Hot photo galleries.
Reading center accessory The Portable DVD Center plays all popular formats on a bright 7" screen. Bonus items include a full-function control, two stereo headphones, and a foam-lined carrying case. List Price: $349. Califone Int'l, 800-722-0500, www.califone.com; also available from Brodart Library Supplies & Furnishings, 888-820-4377, www.shopbrodart.com
It's a snap The Playaway Case is made of durable, clear polypropylene construction and features two specially molded spaces to hold one digital audiobook and headphones. The snap-shut cover protects contents from dust and moisture. Available with or without the full outer sleeve. List Price: $6.99–$7.49. DEMCO, 800-356-1200, www.DEMCO.com
Sturdy solution Clear, impact-resistant, single Poly CD Case has a full wrap-around sleeve for graphics. The case is built stronger, lasts longer, and weighs less than a standard jewel case. Great for children's department. Plus, it's all one piece so there's nothing to replace. List Price: 88¢. Showcases, 800-240-1850, www.showcases1.com
Deter theft The Red Tag Disc Media Protection System offers multiple levels of security and is compatible with all 3M™ EM Security Systems. The dual-function locking tag secures one disc to the case and keeps the case locked. List Price: Red Tap De-Tagger, $142; case, 75¢ and up. 3M, 800-328-0067, www.3m.com/us/library; also available from Brodart Library Supplies & Furnishings, 888-820-4377, www.shopbrodart.com
Play safe Protect and secure your digital audiobooks with the Findaway Playaway Security Packaging. The one-capacity polypropylene constructed case stores Playaway titles within the stacks. Remove tag at checkout with a key and circulate. Offers a secure or an unsecure option. List Price: $2.59–$8.99. DEMCO, 800-356-1200, www.DEMCO.com
DVD storage The slim Poly DVD Case holds six DVDs in vinyl sleeves. The spine width is the same as a single DVD case and fits in your security units. Inside cover will hold small booklet under clips. Full wrap-around clear vinyl sleeve opens at the top and bottom and detaches from the spine. List Price:$1.53. Showcases, 800-240-1850, www.showcases1.com
Consolidate Slim down your multiple disc sets with the VERSApak Disc Case. Each black polypropylene case features a tab page system on the inside and a full sleeve on the outside. List Price: 3-disc case, $1.90 and up. Nexpak, 770-497-0044, www.nexpak.com; also available from Brodart Library Supplies & Furnishings, 888-820-4377, www.shopbrodart.com
Preserve & protect These CD Binder Pages feature four archival-safe pockets that hold a CD or 4" x 6" index card. Each pocket has a polypropylene flap, and you can alternate CD placement to allow pages to lie flat. Paper inserts for labeling and indexing are included. List Price: 25 pages, $14.75. Print File, 800-508-8539, www.printfile.com; also available from Brodart Library Supplies & Furnishings, 888-820-4377, www.shopbrodart.com
Carpeting
Time Warp Past, Present, Future, and Serendipity Carpet are a coordinated group of broadloom and carpet tile products. Past, broadloom only, with Present and Future, both offered in broadloom and carpet tile, present three patterns, neutral in the foreground with a multicolor field peeking through as background. The broadloom Serendipity is a traditional geometric with a color range of neutral fields. They also feature solution-dyed yarn, which means high levels of stain resistance and superior texture retention. All are available certified as Scientific Certification Systems' Sustainable Choice Gold/Environmentally Preferable Products. List Price:Call for price. Bentley Prince Street, 800-423-4709, www.bentleyprincestreet.com
Soil free First Appearances® Carpet offers a three-phrase entryway system—EZ-Scrub™, BrushOff™, and CleanSweep™. It can capture moisture and 95 percent of tracked soil before it enters the building. Eight new colors have been added to each pattern offering. Sustainable advantages include extended life of interiors, improved IAQ, and savings on maintenance. The entry system is PVC free, chlorine free, 100 percent recyclable, third-party certified, and may contribute to LEED™ certification. List Price: Clean Sweep, $5–$7/sq. ft. Milliken Carpet, 800-962-6521, www.millikencarpet.com
Plan right The mid-weight City Planning Carpet is available in broadloom for lounge and seating areas, or as a carpet tile for stack areas or high-traffic zones. Its linear pattern is offered in modern and organic hues that range from neutral to bold. Also includes Intersept® antimicrobial protection. It is certified to the new environmental industry standard as Scientific Certification Systems' Sustainable Choice Gold/Environmentally Preferable Product under the new Sustainable Carpet Assessment Draft Standard, NSF-140. List Price: broadloom, $23.90/sq. ft.; tile, $32.90/sq. ft. Bentley Prince Street, 800-423-4709, www.bentleyprincestreet.com
Behind the scenes Boost your green score with ESP Backing, which has up to 35 percent total recycled content with a minimum of ten percent postconsumer recycled content. All modular collections with the new backing meet the Scientific Certification Systems Sustainable Choice California Platinum/Environmentally Preferable Product certification. List Price: available on all modular collections. Milliken Carpet, 800-962-6521, www.millikencarpet.com
Carrels
Eco-portable Ideal for multiple classroom situations, Quick Carrels provide teachers and students with portable work areas. The design and 50" height provide privacy while allowing instructors to supervise. The 50"h x 38"w x 27"d carrel includes a whiteboard and a corkboard wall that can be used for instruction or posting notes. It has lockable wheels for mobility and can be nested for storage. It has received GREENGUARD Children and Schools Indoor Air Quality certification from the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute, an industry independent, nonprofit dedicated to improving public health and quality of life through programs that improve indoor air quality. Smith System, 800-328-1061, www.smithsystem.com
Chairs/Seating
Save the whales The Plover Child Chair comes with the Ocean Series whale, dolphin, and sea star cutouts, in addition to other designs and colors. List Price: Call for price.TMC Furniture, 734-622-0080, www.tmcfurniture.com
Sized for all The line of Bikini Chairs and Stools has styles to fit both adults and kiddies. The recyclable polypropylene seats and backs are available in a variety of colors, and the tubular steel frame is finished in metallic polyester. Most chairs and stools are stackable. Good for children's and teen areas, as well as in café and outdoor patio settings. List Price: $304.30–$441. TotaLibra, 800-243-0464, www.totalibra.com
Many forms For the Whitman Chair, arms can be tapered or turned or not there at all, backs slatted or solid, seats upholstered or not, legs rounded or squared. List Price: Call for price. Worden, 800-748-0561, www.wordencompany.com
Supersize seat This stylish AMAT Freddy Stool allows for seating in several different positions. The oversized seat is available in three polyurethane colors or carved birch plywood. The tubular steel frame features a chrome finish. Stretchers on all four sides provide a footrest. List Price: $710.10–$1,301. TotaLibra, 800-243-0464, www.totalibra.com
A nice perch The seats in the Rotella Stool Collection are solidly constructed from formed hardwood plywood and finished in a natural lacquer. The metal bases come in standard powdercoat finishes and are available in a counter-height stool. Constructed to withstand everyday use, these are ideal for any hospitality or university setting. List Price: Call for price. Agati, 312-829-1977, www.agati.com
Young & casual The Miralook Chair sports a wrap-around design to provide a comfortable seat for both indoor and outdoor needs. The chair, with fun, cutout designs, is supported by a tubular steel frame, finished in metallic polyester or chrome for indoor use or a polished anodized aluminum tube frame for outdoor use. Both versions include a recyclable polypropylene shell available in different colors. Ideal for teen and cafeteria areas, as well as outdoor casual seating. List Price: $352.80–$449.90. TotaLibra, 800-243-0464, www.totalibra.com
First step With seven different styles, the Entry Chair Collection can also be customized with your choice of wood finishes and fabric designs. Thirteen finish options along with a catalog of upholstery options are offered. List Price: Call for price.Brodart Furniture, 888-521-1884, www.brodartfurniture.com
Call of the wild Zebra Chairs are a stylish mix of tubular steel, in matte black or aluminum, together with black-stained or natural wood arms and slatted seat back. Available in three different styles: four-leg side chair, stackable side chair, or sled-base side chair. List Price: $2,119.80–$2,575. Magnus Olesen, www.www.magnus-olesen.dk; available from TotaLibra, 800-243-0464, www.totalibra.com
Scaled back The cozy Algonquin Child Lounge Chair features wooden side panels that can be specified with cutouts or other surface detail, such as wood inlay or textured patterns. List Price: Call for price. TMC Furniture, 734-622-0080, www.tmcfurniture.com
The new kid The newest addition to the Rio Collection, the Rio Pull Up High Stool, is fully upholstered, while tapered legs and a solid wood base support each seat. Available with or without arms or as a lounge chair or a children's chair. List Price: Call for price. Agati, 312-829-1977, www.agati.com
Whoooo With a solid wood base and a sleek, molded plywood shell, the Owl Chair is designed to be as practical and comfortable as a standard chair. List Price: Call for price. TMC Furniture, 734-622-0080, www.tmcfurniture.com
Shifts with you This Contemporary Computer Chair features a waterfall seat, molded back, lumbar cushioning, a pneumatic seat that's height adjustable, and a flexible vinyl-molded back that responds as you shift position. List Price:$99 and up. Brodart Library Supplies & Furnishings, 888-820-4377, www.shopbrodart.com
Kiddie creatures These Special Perimeter Children's Chairs combine animal shapes and vibrant two-tone finishes. Shown here with Kestrel solid wood base, these chairs are also offered with metal tube legs or metal wire sled base. List Price: Call for price. TMC Furniture, 734-622-0080, www.tmcfurniture.com
Aloha Hawaii Tables feature a polished and anodized, cast-aluminum base and center column. A four-footed base is used on round and square tables, while two two-footed bases are used on rectangular tables. Tabletops for indoor/outdoor use include two styles of stainless steel tops, as well as a compact laminate. Tops are connected to the frame with a cast-aluminum cross. List Price: $1,111.40–$3,757.40. TotaLibra, 800-243-0464, www.totalibra.com
Kid contemplation Simple lines and solid construction make the Children's Museum Bench perfect for children's areas. Versatile and comfortable, the bench is available with a selection of cutout designs and wood finishes. The seat may be upholstered or not. List Price: Call for price. TMC Furniture, 734-622-0080, www.tmcfurniture.com
Circulation
A lift up or down The Ergonomic Self-Check Out Terminal (SCOT) comes with hydraulic legs, allowing patrons to adjust the height of the station. This workstation can be lowered to a height of just 31" for patrons in wheelchairs and raised to 45". All it takes is a push of a button. List Price: Call for price. Libramation, 888-809-0099, www.libramation.com
Euro sleek Additional optional features in the “New Orleans” SelfCheck Station include capabilities to return multimedia items, automatically extend due dates, as well as pay for overdue materials. Patrons can pay in cash at the same time as checkout. Includes an integrated barcode reader for library cards and a receipt printer. Available as a tabletop version or freestanding. List Price:Call for price. Bibliotheca, 877-7-BIBLIO, www.bibliotheca-rfid.com
Upgrade Staff Workstation Model 946, a replacement for Model 795, performs checkout or return in one step by combining RFID item identification and security into a single operation. The 946 offers an improved Tattle-Tape™ Security Strip desensitizing rate and a lower false alarm rate. The system links to the library's existing ILS, meaning no additional computer. The system can also perform barcode-to-RFID conversions for new acquisitions and smaller-scale collections. For audiovisual media, it enables staff to verify that the case and item within match, all without opening the case. List Price: $12,712 (quantity discounts may be available). 3M, 800-328-0067, www.3m.com/us/library
Patron convenience These Automatic Book Returns may be installed in various high-traffic areas, such as malls, and can be either wall-mounted or freestanding. The automated material handling system accepts both traditional barcoded materials as well as the newly tagged RFID collection. The book return's ergonomic design is built to operate quietly. Receipt printing is an optional feature. For use in the library, you can combine with the BiblioReturn Sorter system. List Price:Call for price. Bibliotheca, 877-7-BIBLIO, www.bibliotheca-rfid.com
You will be converted As a component of the 3M™ RFID System, the Conversion Station helps convert materials to RFID technology. It features a touch-sensitive screen, optical barcode scanner, and a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader and reads barcodes, converts the information, and dispenses 3M™ RFID tags. Does not require a connection to an automated circulation system, and the laser scanner can handle virtually every barcode location and orientation. It can also reprogram RFID tags as items change. List Price: $18,297 (quantity discounts may be available). 3M, 800-328-0067, www.3m.com/us/library
Each person for him orherself Patrons can quickly check out all materials, view account status, or pay fees with the Universal Self-Service Station™. Also available are options for electromagnetic, radio frequency, or RFID security and built-in, tabletop, of kiosk installations. Every screen, graphic, text, or sound can be changed with a few mouse clicks. List Price: Call for price. Checkpoint Systems, 800-257-5540, www.checkpointsystems.com
Tag, you're it! The EZ Tag System programs the RFID tag based on the item's barcode, then custom prints the label on demand. You can batchload barcodes in the system to print instantly multiple tags that include your library's name, logo, and ID number, along with item title and barcode. The integrated system includes CircIT EZ Tag Software Suite, a Dell™ notebook, and a lock, printer, and barcode scanner with a flexible stand. List Price: Call for price. Tech Logic, 800-494-9330, www.tech-logic.com
Show me the money With a full-color touchscreen display, the G4 Automated Payment Machine can handle any kind of library financial transaction and enable patrons and visitors to make self-service payments and purchases without staff involvement. It accepts bills, coins, and (optionally) bank cards; it returns change and prints a receipt. List Price: Call for price. Comprise Technologies, 800-854-6822, www.comprisetechnologies.com
Circulation, Multimedia
Open 24/7 The Media Bank™ Kiosk is a self-charging unit that allows patrons to browse CD and DVD collections, select items, check out, and receive a date-due receipt. It reduces processing time, offers an easy-to-use cataloging system, provides security, and is compatible with most ILS systems. A customized user interface guides patrons on their search and includes step-by-step instructions. Items can be returned to the kiosk without the use of a library card. The Media Bank™ Classic stores up to 987 DVDs/CDs, while the Media Bank™ Extra stores up to 1,812 DVDs/CDs. List Price: $30,999.99–$40,999.99. Libramation, 888-809-0099, www.libramation.com; also available from DEMCO, 800-356-1200, www.DEMCO.com
All media, all the time The “all-in-one” allCirc™ secures your CD/DVD collection while simultaneously providing 24/7/365 complete self-check capability for all other library items. The media collection is stored inside the machine and is only dispensed to authenticated patrons, following ILS rules. It also houses a complete built-in patron self-checkout/checkin system for books. The key design element is modularity—it can be located next to the media section it secures. At 25"w x 33"d x 35"h, it includes the LAT-Central™ enterprise management tool, which allows librarians to control every aspect of the machine remotely, as well as run various reports and administrative functions. List Price: Call for price. Library Automation Technologies, 856-566-4121, www.latcorp.com
Desks/Workstations
Working the quads The slim Kestrel Quad Workstation has tapered solid wood legs, a choice of panel shapes, and other options. Offered in various shapes and sizes, with privacy panels and grommets in the worksurface. List Price: Call for price. TMC Furniture, 734-622-0080, www.tmcfurniture.com
One or the other The patented flipIT® table lets media centers also serve as computer workstations. An ergonomically positioned monitor rotates under the desktop when books and a writing surface are preferred. List Price: Call for price. SMARTdesks, 800-770-7042, www.smartdesks.com
Missing Link? With flexibility in height adjustment, wire management, and work surface size, the TechnoLink™ ElectroLift Workstation is a vertically adjustable gas-lift computer tower. Clear controls make it easy to raise and lower the working height. Additional styles are available to accommodate computer monitors and CPU towers. List Price: Call for price. TotaLibra, 800-243-0464, www.totalibra.com
Crank it up The Bi-Level Computer Workstation features separate hand cranks to adjust the height of the keyboard and monitor. Both work surfaces slide in and out for easy access to wire management. List Price: $1,185. AD•AS, 800-957-2720, www.ad-as.com; also available from Brodart Library Supplies & Furnishings, 888-820-4377, www.shopbrodart.com
Now you see it.... The patent pending flipIT® Laptop Safe can be installed in any podium, desktop, or tabletop to provide locked temporary storage for laptops. Cables may remain attached for charging at point of use. Available in furniture, or as a kit for installation in existing furniture. List Price: Call for price. SMARTdesks, 800-770-7042, www.smartdesks.com
Slim space The Delta End-of-Range Computer Station can be used freestanding or flush against any 20"-wide shelving. The translucent enclosures on three sides also help to keep the CPU out of reach. List Price: $299. Moen Woodworks, 877-333-6636, www.moendesigns.com; also available from Brodart Library Supplies & Furnishings, 888-820-4377, www.shopbrodart.com
Man your stations Choose from TechnoLink™ Solo, Duo, and MultiStations that offer flexibility in the number of stations as well as height. There are four heights available to take the unit from sitting to standing in an instant. Also available with the option of locking CPU storage. List Price: Call for price. TotaLibra, 800-243-0464, www.totalibra.com
Disaster Preparedness
In case of an emergency Be prepared to care for up to 25 people with the LifeSecure Emergency Response Kit. It contains gloves, goggles, water pouches, tarps, blankets, flashlight, toilet necessities, first aid supplies, and more. List Price: $165. Brodart Library Supplies & Furnishings, 888-820-4377, www.shopbrodart.com
Disc Repair
Child friendly The SKIP-AWAY is designed for small libraries and IT deparments, and it can handle disc collections ranging between one and 400 discs. It comes in a variety of colors, features OptoClear technology, and restores discs in a nonhazardous, child-friendly manner. List Price: $249.99. VenMill Industries, 800-928-0090, www.venmill.com
Hardcore The Elite 60 is ideal for disc collection sizes ranging from 500–2000 discs. It uses the OptoClear technology. Repair time runs 90 seconds.List Price: $999.99. VenMill Industries, 800-928-0090, www.venmill.com
Display
Soft stacks These book-themed Wall and Book Stack Accessories soften the environment and help reduce noise levels. Dimensions are 48"h x 22"w x 15"d, and the unit mounts firmly to the wall. Classic or customized book titles are available. The concept can be applied to room entrances. List Price: Call for price. Big Cozy Books, 925-447-1582, www.bigcozybooks.com
Piece it togetherCustomizable, the MicroSlat MicroSpan may be used to build unique wall-mounted displays or add value to existing concepts. It uses a series of 6¾"-wide supporting columns at various heights and depths. Column sides can be finished in a wide range of materials and can be illuminated from behind. The front face of each column is constructed of anodized aluminum slatwall panels and is used with a wide range of both standard and custom slatwall components. List Price: Call for price. TotaLibra, 800-243-0464, www.totalibra.com
Gettin' brassy The Brass Moulding Hook Art Hanging System allows libraries to put the picture moulding in their respective locations to good use. These hooks can be used to maximize the impact in a small space, switch artwork easily on a regular basis, and hang a few large pieces or hang a number of smaller pieces in an on-the-wall collage. List Price: Call for price. Gallery Systems, 800-460-8703, www.gallerysystem.com
Simple browsing The shelves on the EuroTec Media Series can be spaced to accommodate any media height. Simply stand it upright and add the desired number of shelves for setup. You can add on to your starter frame as needs change. List Price: $479 and up. FixtureXpress: Brodart Library Supplies & Furnishings, 888-820-4377, www.shopbrodart.com
Like a museum Specify display cases to precisely fit your collection and space with the Custom-Size Museum-Quality Cases and Pedestals. The ¾" medium-density fiberboard base is archival quality and will not off-gas, while vitrines are made from your choice of ¼" standard or UV-filtering acrylic. All cases feature a 4" recessed kick base, adjustable levelers, and a 1½"-deep slot to hold the vitrine with a ¾" reveal. Additional accessories available. List Price: varies. Gaylord, 800-469-1592, www.Gaylord.com
Taller is better The MAR-LINE® Mobile Rotor Stand Displayer features high-impact polystyrene towers, clear acrylic pockets, mix-and-match display capability—and it's mobile. List Price: $559 and up. Gressco, 800-345-3480, www.gressco.com; also available from Brodart Library Supplies & Furnishings, 888-820-4377, www.shopbrodart.com
Minimalist tradition Neo Magazine and Pamphlet Racks, designed by Pascual Salvador, are flexible and functional. The system features both freestanding and wall-mounted units. Neo also offers the flexibility of being able to gang units together. List Price: varies. Magnuson Group, 800-342-5725, www.magnusongroup.com
Easels
Display ease Collapsible and Folding Easels come with aluminum frames with metallic finish and hinged chart holders. Folding easels have a pad clamp and are available with gold or silver finish; they fold down to 41" x 4¾". Collapsible easels are available with gold, silver, or bronze finish and may be fitted with an optional pad clamp. Other optional accessories offered. List Price: Call for price. MagnaPlan, 800-361-1192, www.visualplanning.com
End Panels
Old MacDonald.... Child-friendly animals are applied to these Children's Special Perimeter End Panels to create “storybook magic.” Choose from perimeter shapes adapted from TMC's cutout portfolio (or customize), colorful laminates, and wood finishes. List Price: Call for price. TMC Furniture, 734-622-0080, www.tmcfurniture.com
Use your imagination Provide your own image or art for the Custom Printed End Panels and work with the design team to determine what type of material would create the effect you desire. Substrates include vinyl, glass, acrylic, wood veneers, steel, and more. Printing can also be applied to carrels, room dividers, etc. Backlight can be added in some instances. List Price: Call for price. TotaLibra, 800-243-0464, www.totalibra.com
According to your taste Try glass, perforated steel, wood veneers, or try different combinations of materials for a new look for your Custom End Panels. Available on almost all TotaLibra shelving. List Price:Call for price. TotaLibra, 800-243-0464, www.totalibra.com
DIY signage With the End Panels with Markerboard Sign Area, create your own signage by writing your message with fluorescent markers on a black inlaid markerboard. The arched laminate panel can come with or without three diamond-shaped markerboard inlays. Available in over 200 Wilsonart laminates and six wood finishes. List Price: Call for price. Gaylord, 800-448-6160, www.Gaylord.com
Fundraising
Do it for the children Brightly colored Children's Fundraising Building Blocks will make a statement when you're seeking support. Each 6" x 6" self-adhesive mounting block is fabricated from 1/8"-thick Sintra®. The donor's name or message can be screenprinted in black in your choice of three typefaces. Each block will include double-sided tape adhered to the backside for mounting. List Price: package of four, $82. Gaylord, 800-448-6160, www.Gaylord.com
Furniture Collections
Balance and flair Simple and tasteful, the Calloway Collection fits into institutional or hospitality environments. All pieces feature a solid wood base with sabre legs and arched apron rails. Inset veneer tops are paired with a solid wood, square edge. Includes study tables, OPACs, dictionary and atlas stands, and cabinets. List Price: varies. Agati, 312-829-1977, www.agati.com
For little adventurers The Exploration Collection is available in northern hard maple panels and solids, and all panels are available in either silhouette or plastic laminate inlay. Various themes are available and can be carried through all the furniture in the children's area. List Price:varies. Blanton & Moore, 704-528-4506, www.blantonandmoore.com
Multimedia “archive” The study tables, chairs, study carrels, computer stations, shelving, stands, and carts in the Archive™ Library Solutions group are each offered in various heights and widths, and available in oak and maple species and six stain finishes. KI's exclusive PowerUp® module provides laptop users with instant access to power and data connections within the table or work surface. List Price: varies. KI, 800-424-2432, www.ki.com
All in the family Eight new products have been added to the flagship Legacy Library System: a bookstore-like octagon display unit, four new reading tables, and “build your own design” shelving accessories. All the new products are available in a wide range of colors and finishes, and durable UV and powderpaint finishing processes minimize the long-term effects of wear and tear. They also offer built-in features such as pin-style shelving and seismic frames. List Price: varies. Bretford, 800-521-9614, www.bretford.com
Future furniture The Connect Modular Lounge Series is designed with interlocking seating and tables. It offers an optional power center with two electrical outlets and two data plugs for connecting to the Internet that can be installed in the arm of any single or double seat configuration; and an optional tablet arm that pivots 360°, self-centers, and is sized to fit laptop devices. There are more than 50 different interchangeable components, from interlocking end tables to clever ottoman and center console configurations. List Price: varies. Jasper Seating, 888-440-8205, www.jasperseatingfurniture.com
It's elementary The Truss Collection designed by Scott Klinker is characterized by crisp lines, spare forms, cantilevered plans, and elementary colors. Common to all pieces is a graphic truss element at the base and playful apertures. The collection includes benches, tables, and children's furniture. List Price: varies. Context Furniture, 248-200-0724, www.contextfurniture.com
Jackbox
Group work Made with ABS plastic, the USB Jackbox allows for six headphones and six microphone inputs. By connecting it to any computer through a USB port, users can practice their language skills or listen to audiobooks and online streaming videos as a group. Also, people can create their own podcasts, and communicate over distances with any VoIP application. A one-year warranty includes coverage for school, library, and government use. List Price: $65. Califone Int'l, 800-722-0500, www.califone.com
Noise Control
Shush The Cell Zone private booth provides a convenient and quiet place for patrons to make and receive cell phone calls. Everyone can use it with the easy access ramp. It also features a motion sensitized safety light and fan, a rubber matted floor, soundproof steel construction, adjustable casters for easy relocation, and a sliding Lexan pocket door. Offered in two available sizes and a broad color palette to choose from. List Price: $3,299.99–$4,499.99. DEMCO, 800-356-1200, www.DEMCO.com
Pump up the volume The Cone of Silence is designed to deliver high quality stereo sound to patrons without disturbing others in the library. The patented design delivers a column of sound directly below the sphere to provide crisp, clear stereo sound. Outside the column, sound level drops 80 percent so that adjacent patrons are not bothered by the audio content. List Price: Call for price. Interface Electronics, 800-329-3289, www.interface.com
Projectors
All clear The full-featured XG-MB50XL Projector combines Texas Instruments DDR DLP® technology for enhanced picture quality with a Condenser lens optical system for brighter, accurate color representation. The high-efficiency lamp reduces the wattage, heat, and power consumption. It features high brightness to project a crystal clear picture in any work environment, regardless of lighting conditions. List Price: $1,395. Sharp Electronics, 800-BE-SHARP, www.sharpusa.com
Shelving
Shelf style With a cantilever framework, LibraStack™ Shelving has a modular, bolt-together design that is functional, adaptable, and easily maintained. A range of shelf styles allow for display and storage of all media types. Available in single-sided and double-sided bays, the range of uprights is available in heights from 48" to 83" and widths of 30", 36", and 39". The DuPont® Activecoat® finish provides an antibacterial powder coat finish and is offered in a range of ten colors; colors may be matched for larger orders. List Price: Call for price. TotaLibra, 800-243-0464, www.totalibra.com
That bookstore feel The new Americana™ Mobile Bookstore Shelving combines a bookstore feel with portable functionality. The double-faced, 58"-high unit includes premium oak veneer end panels and backs. The ten shelves are made of ¾" solid oak, 8" deep, and are slanted for easy viewing. The unit moves smoothly on two heavy-duty steel carriages with 3" swivel furniture casters. Available in six wood finishes. List Price: $1,195. Gaylord, 800-448-6160, www.Gaylord.com
Antitamper Mobile Shelving has the feature of Infinity Shelving, plus mobility. These features include the Lock Tight™ system, a ¾" Deflecta-Stop on each shelf, and Posi-Lock shelf supports—the tamper-proof shelf system. List Price: $585 and up. Paragon, 817-633-3242, www.paragoninc.com; also available from Brodart Library Supplies & Furnishings, 888-820-4377, www.shopbrodart.com
Signage
Countertop whimsy Place announcements in these Designer Sign Holders, which feature whimsical frames for any countertop message. A clear acrylic overlay is permanently mounted to the front of the 11" x 8½" or 5" x 7" signs and is available in three styles and three colors. List Price: $36.99–$45.99. DEMCO, 800-356-1200, www.DEMCO.com
In clear view With the Line-of-Sight™ Acrylic Sign Holder, you can create a sign in your PC and print it out and then attach to the Line-of-Sight™ Hanger (available for wood or metal shelving). List Price: $13 and up. Brodart Library Supplies & Furnishings, 888-820-4377, www.shopbrodart.com
Fun fonts Foam Signage Letters and Symbols come in fun fonts and vivid colors. Now available with a variety of graphics. Easy-to-use, lightweight, and sturdy in 1"-thick colored foam. List Price: $5.79–$70.99. DEMCO, 800-356-1200, www.DEMCO.com
Say it loud Get the word out with Custom Oversized Banners. Send your favorite photo and have it rendered to resemble painted art, or choose an art template and add the desired text. Choose paper posters, Tyvek®, or vinyl banners. List Price: $40.24 and up (rendering and text fees extra). Brodart Library Supplies & Furnishings, 888-820-4377, www.shopbrodart.com
A visual guide Create areas of visual interest with these Sign Frames and Sign Inserts. The sign frames are lightweight, anodized aluminum with a nonglare, acrylic front cover that slices out for easy insert changes by removing the top end cap with a ball-end Allen wrench (included). Mounting options include: removable double-faced tape, VHB double-faced tape, or countersunk holes. Suspended ceiling frames come with heavy-duty attaching wire. Sign inserts, in four designs, are printed on heavyweight paper with ultraviolet (UV) inks for durability. List Price: sign inserts, $41.29; sign frames, varies. Gaylord, 800-469-1592, www.Gaylord.com
No-breakage warranty Acrylic Value Sign Holders are for general use and easy on the budget. Choose from vertical or horizontal slant-back, bottom loading, top loading, and many more, all with an exclusive one-year no-breakage guarantee. List Price: $5.95 and up. Brodart Library Supplies & Furnishings, 888-820-4377, www.shopbrodart.com
Tables
2-D interactive Kids can read, write, play games, or seek out the many animals and letters hidden in the interactive surface on the colorful Kidovation® Themed Brower Table. The image is permanently affixed with a clear ten-mil LEXAN™ surface to prevent scratching. The round table is constructed of ¾"-thick particleboard core with laminate surface. List Price: $209.99. DEMCO, 800-356-1200, www.DEMCO.com
Adaptation The 2be! Table Series offers a variety of interchangeable table options. With clever use of tops, legs, and panels, they easily adapt to changing demands. The series includes a circular table, reading table, and two rectangular table sizes with optional dividing panels. Panels can be added and removed. List Price: varies. Brodart Furniture, 888-521-1884, www.brodartfurniture.com
Artistically inclined With a table that adjusts 12", up to 18 tilt levels, the Split Top CAD Table can be suited to any designer. It also includes a pencil drawer, a CPU holder, and can accommodate a laptop or flat panel monitor. List Price: $539. Paragon, 817-633-3242, www.paragoninc.com; also available from Brodart Library Supplies & Furnishings, 888-820-4377, www.shopbrodart.com
Float away Offering a complement to the BCI Opal line of shelving, e.sense Tables are available with two leg styles and many edge styles and colors. The “U”-base style offers elegance, while the Panel-leg version allows further customization with the application of a variety of materials, such as glass, custom printed end panels, and perforated steel. Both leg styles include a hidden cable channel under the work surface. Tabletops are available in multiple surface types and colors. Bases come in a variety of paint finishes and are designed to create the illusion of a “floating” tabletop. List Price:$1,886.90–$3,040. TotaLibra, 800-243-0464, www.totalibra.com
Trucks
Give it 'ere Double-faced and made of heavy-duty steel, the Everything Cart has bins on two levels, each molded into six compartments. Choose from brand-new colors. Smith System, 800-328-1061, www.smithsystem.com; also available from Brodart Library Supplies & Furnishings, 888-820-4377, www.shopbrodart.com
Little mobile library With two sides for more storage, the BriteVista™ Mobile Book Cart rolls easily from room to room and has a 15-year warranty. List Price: $429. Brodart Library Supplies & Furnishings, 888-820-4377, www.shopbrodart.com
Vending
Combo pack The VendaKiosk Model 5596 Coin-op for library self-service copiers and printers is a combination credit card, coin, and bill acceptor copier/printer cost recovery controller. This vending controller has 16 vend prices, and allows both walk up copies and network prints from the same model 5596 coin-op. List Price: $1,266 and up. Vendapin, 607-844-8134, www.vendapin.com
