3M Donates Standard Interchange Protocol (SIP) To National Standards Organization (NISO)

3M Library Systems and NISO have joined together in an effort to drive future innovation of the Standard Interchange Protocol (SIP) as an American National Standard. Originally this was developed by 3M to provide a common communication language that would drive adoption of self-service systems for libraries. SIP has become the de-facto standard for the communication between self-service devices and Integrated Library Systems (ILS) globally.

Shortly after 3M introduced the first SelfCheck System for libraries in 1992, it quickly became evident that there was a need for a standardized communication mechanism for ILS and self-service devices. As a leader in library technology and a strong advocate for the advancement of libraries, 3M initiated development of SIP which paved the way for self-service devices in libraries and brought many new suppliers and innovations to the market.

Since the inception of SIP in 1993, 3M has continued to lead the development of updated versions, most recently with version 3.0 released in late 2011. Each update has addressed the evolving needs of libraries and has provided extensions to simplify and support automated materials handling systems, PC management systems and fine and fee payment solutions.

“We are proud of the contributions SIP has made to the library community over the years. While 3M has always sought input from the libraries, developers and interested parties in enhancing the protocol, the time is right for further development of SIP to be done in a more independent, community environment which NISO provides,” said Skip Driessen, Global Business Manager for 3M Library Systems.

“The maturity of the SIP protocol and its implementation track record should allow it to move quickly through the NISO standardization process,” stated Todd Carpenter, NISO Managing Director. “We anticipate that version 3.0, as it currently stands or with very minor revisions, will be adopted as a standard following a brief period of review within a NISO Working Group.”

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