SIP2 Integration

For libraries that need physical self-checkout stations -- such as school libraries, public libraries, or corporate libraries with walk-in access -- Librarika supports the SIP2 protocol for connecting self-checkout kiosks and other automation devices.

If you are looking for browser-based self-checkout without any hardware, see Online Self-Service instead.

What is SIP2?

SIP2 (Standard Interchange Protocol 2) is an industry-standard protocol used by libraries worldwide to communicate between self-service devices (such as self-checkout kiosks, RFID gates, and automated book sorters) and the library management system. SIP2 allows these devices to perform checkouts, check-ins, and patron lookups without requiring direct access to the library dashboard.

Requirements

To use SIP2-based self-checkout, you will need:

  • A paid Librarika plan (Basic Pro, Silver, or Gold).
  • A SIP2 license -- SIP2 is licensed separately on a per-terminal basis. The Gold plan includes 1 SIP2 terminal by default; for other plans, you need to purchase a SIP2 license. Contact Librarika support for pricing.
  • Kiosk hardware -- A computer or tablet to serve as the self-checkout terminal.
  • A barcode scanner -- To scan member IDs and item barcodes.
  • SIP2-compatible kiosk software -- Software that connects to Librarika via the SIP2 protocol (see Librarika Kiosk App below).

Plan & Licensing

SIP2 is licensed separately on a per-terminal basis. Each terminal that connects to Librarika requires its own SIP2 license.

  • Gold Plan -- Includes 1 SIP2 terminal by default.
  • Basic Pro / Silver Plans -- SIP2 licenses must be purchased separately.
  • Additional terminals -- Available for all paid plans with per-terminal pricing. Contact Librarika support for pricing details.

Connection Details

  • Protocol: SIP2 over TLS (encrypted)
  • Port: 6009
  • Activation: SIP2 connections must be manually activated by Librarika staff. Please contact support after subscribing to get your SIP2 terminal set up.

Setup Steps

  1. Subscribe to a paid Librarika plan (Basic Pro, Silver, or Gold).
  2. Contact Librarika support to purchase a SIP2 license (if not included in your plan) and request activation. Provide the number of terminals you need.
  3. Configure your kiosk software with the SIP2 connection details provided by Librarika staff.
  4. Print barcode labels for your catalog items and member cards. See Barcode Labels for instructions.
  5. Test the connection by performing a test checkout and check-in at your kiosk.

Librarika Kiosk App (Coming Soon)

Librarika is developing its own kiosk application for self-checkout terminals. The app is designed to work seamlessly with Librarika's SIP2 service and will include:

  • Patron login with barcode scanner -- Members scan their library card to log in.
  • Multi-item checkout and return -- Check out or return multiple items in a single session.
  • Session auto-logout -- Automatically logs out the patron after a period of inactivity.
  • Admin panel -- Configure branding, timeouts, receipt printing, and other settings.
  • Cross-platform -- Built with Electron and React, available for Windows, Mac, and Linux.

Stay tuned for updates on the Librarika Kiosk App release.

FAQ

Is SIP2 available on the free plan?

No. SIP2 requires a paid plan (Basic Pro, Silver, or Gold) and a separate SIP2 license purchased on a per-terminal basis. The Gold plan includes 1 SIP2 terminal by default; other plans require purchasing the license separately.

Do I need a barcode scanner?

Yes. SIP2 kiosk-based checkout requires a barcode scanner to scan member IDs and item barcodes. If you don't need hardware-based checkout, consider using Online Self-Service instead -- it works from any browser with no scanner needed.

Can I use third-party kiosk software?

Yes. Any SIP2-compatible kiosk software can connect to Librarika. Librarika is also developing its own Kiosk App for a seamless experience.