Case Story: Marigold Library System

A Growing Challenge

Every year, Marigold Library System’s Shipping and Receiving staff handle nearly two million items for their 37 member libraries. In the past, all these items had to be unpacked, sorted, and delivered by hand. As a result, incoming delivery bins had to be unpacked in the order they arrived, often requiring bins to be moved multiple times. 

At the central sorting table, one person was responsible for unpacking each item and placing it into one of 42 destination bins. This meant that only one staff member could sort at any given time. Even a small disruption to the schedule – such as a long weekend – would cause immediate bottlenecks. 

In addition to consuming valuable staff time and resources, the heavy handling of large volumes of materials increased the risk of physical strain and injury. It was clear that Marigold needed a more efficient and ergonomic solution to keep pace with their growing demand.

A Solution Tailored to Marigold’s Needs

After careful research, Marigold chose the Lyngsoe Sort Mate™ 2000. From Marigold’s perspective, Lyngsoe’s proposal stood out because it reflected a deep understanding of their workflows and facility layout, offering a conveyor-based solution designed to integrate smoothly within their current space. The robust, modular design offered the long-term reliability Marigold was looking for, while the company’s strong presence in Alberta meant responsive support and an ongoing partnership they could trust. 

Another decisive factor was Lyngsoe’s flexibility. The quotation covered every aspect of the solution; from the conveyor system and installation, to spare parts and technical support, and a maintenance schedule that was adapted to Marigold’s needs. 

Integrating the Sort Mate 2000 at Marigold was straightforward and without disruption to member libraries. While staff experienced an initial learning curve, minor challenges were quickly resolved and the transition proved effortless. 

Transforming Daily Operations

Since the installation, Marigold has seen a remarkable improvement in productivity and workflow.

• Higher efficiency: By eliminating manual placement, more staff can now participate in the sorting process. Tasks are divided between induction, scanning, and preparing bins for shipment, allowing the team to handle higher volumes with ease. 
• Cost savings: The Sort Mate 2000 eliminated the need for hold slips on inter-system materials, saving both receipt paper and over a week of staff time every year. 
• Improved ergonomics: Induction points and bin shelves are positioned at comfortable heights, reducing physical strain and creating a safer working environment. 
• Greater accuracy: Items are consistently sorted to the correct destinations, reducing errors and delays. 

Marigold’s Shipping and Receiving staff have welcomed the new system, highlighting the speed, comfort, and accuracy of the Sort Mate 2000, as well as the positive impact on their working environment. 

A System Built for the Future

For Marigold Library System, the Lyngsoe Sort Mate™ 2000 has transformed the way materials are managed and distributed. What was once a manual, time-consuming, and physically demanding process has become streamlined, reliable, and sustainable. 

With greater efficiency and accuracy, Marigold is now better equipped to support its member libraries, and ultimately, to provide faster, more reliable service to their communities.