Frequently Asked Questions
About Ristech
Q: What does Ristech do?
Ristech, founded in 1995, provides digitization and scanning solutions for libraries, archives, museums, and government institutions. Our product range covers book scanners, microfilm and microfiche scanners, large-format scanners, archive scanning systems, library automation tools, and book cleaning equipment — everything needed to preserve and provide access to physical collections in a digital world.
Q: Who are Ristech’s customers?
Ristech serves public and academic libraries, national and regional archives, museums, government record offices, law firms, universities, and corporate document centers. Since 1995 we have installed products in more than 50 countries worldwide.
Q: Where is Ristech located?
Ristech Company Inc. is headquartered at 8-5115 Harvester Road, Burlington, Ontario, Canada. We serve clients across North America and internationally.
Digitization & Scanning
Q: What is library digitization and why does it matter?
Library digitization is the process of converting physical materials — books, manuscripts, newspapers, microfilm, maps, and other documents — into high-quality digital files. Digitization preserves fragile originals from wear and environmental damage, improves patron access (materials can be searched and viewed online), reduces physical storage demands, and ensures that historical collections survive for future generations.
Q: What types of materials can Ristech’s scanners handle?
Our solutions cover a wide range of formats: bound books and journals, single-sheet documents, microfilm (16mm and 35mm) and microfiche, oversized items such as maps, architectural plans, and newspapers (up to A0 format), fragile or rare manuscripts, and archival records. Different products are optimized for different material types — contact us if you are unsure which scanner fits your collection.
Q: Will scanning damage my books or documents?
Ristech scanners are specifically designed to protect delicate originals. Book scanners such as the book2net and CopiBook lines use V-shaped cradles that hold bound volumes at a gentle angle, eliminating the need to flatten spines. Automated systems like the Kirtas KABIS series use robotic page-turning technology that minimizes manual handling. For extremely fragile or rare materials, the Kirtas Archive Scanner 3.0 provides a fully non-destructive workflow.
Q: What output formats do your scanners produce?
Ristech scanners produce industry-standard digital formats including PDF, PDF/A (for archival compliance), TIFF, JPEG, and searchable PDF with OCR text layers. Output files are compatible with major library management systems and digital asset management platforms. Our software solutions, such as NextStar Plus and Virtual Film, give operators additional control over file naming, metadata, and delivery.
Q: Can digitized files be made searchable?
Yes. Optical Character Recognition (OCR) can be applied during or after scanning to convert image-based text into searchable, indexable content. This is especially valuable for microfilm newspaper archives, historical records, and large document collections where keyword search dramatically improves usability.
Q: How fast can your scanners digitize a collection?
Throughput varies by product and material type. High-speed automated book scanners such as the Kirtas KABIS series can scan hundreds of pages per hour with minimal operator intervention. Production microfilm scanners like the Eclipse and FlexScan process rolls at high speed suitable for large newspaper archive projects. We are happy to provide throughput estimates based on your specific collection size and format.
Microfilm & Microfiche
Q: Can Ristech help us digitize our microfilm or microfiche collection?
Absolutely. Ristech offers a full range of microfilm and microfiche scanners for both production (high-volume conversion) and patron use (reading room access). Production scanners include the Eclipse, Eclipse 2000, Flexview, and FlexScan models. For patrons, the STImaging ViewScan 5 provides an intuitive self-service experience for 16mm and 35mm film viewing and scanning.
Q: What software supports your microfilm scanners?
Our microfilm scanning ecosystem is supported by NextStar Plus software for workflow management and image processing, and Virtual Film software for creating digital viewing experiences that replicate the feel of browsing physical film. Both are designed to integrate with existing library systems.
Q: Our microfilm is old and fragile — can it still be scanned?
Yes. Our production scanners are designed to handle aged and brittle film with care. If film is damaged or deteriorated, we recommend consulting our team before beginning a project so we can advise on the best approach and settings to minimize risk while achieving good image quality.
Scanners de livres
Q: What book scanner is right for my institution?
The best choice depends on your volume, collection type, and budget. For walk-up patron use, the book2net Kiosk Public series provides an easy self-service scanning experience. For staff-operated digitization, the book2net Pro-V and CopiBook V-Shape are excellent mid-range options. For high-volume automated digitization, the Kirtas KABIS line (KABIS I, II+, IIIW, and 700) offers fully automated page-turning. Our team is happy to recommend the right model after a brief consultation.
Q: What is the book2net scanner range?
book2net is a leading European brand of overhead book scanners distributed by Ristech in North America. The range includes the Kiosk Public A2 and V for patron self-service, the Pro-V A2 for professional scanning, the Spirit Advanced for walk-up use, the Ultra III for high-resolution work, and the Flash, V-Scan Cobra, Hornet, and Folio for large-format and oversized materials.
Q: What is the Kirtas KABIS system?
The Kirtas KABIS (Knowledge Acquisition by Intelligent Scanning) is an automated book scanner that uses robotic technology to turn pages and capture images without manual intervention. Models range from the entry-level KABIS I to the high-throughput KABIS IIIW with SmartCradle technology that automatically centers books to improve image consistency and post-processing productivity. The KABIS 700 is designed for large-volume institutional digitization projects.
Large Format Scanning
Q: Can you scan maps, blueprints, and oversized documents?
Yes. Ristech offers a comprehensive large-format scanning lineup including the book2net Flash, V-Scan Cobra, Hornet (semi-automatic A0), and Folio, along with the i2S SupraScan Quartz A0, Quartz A1 HD, CopiBook Open System A1, and the SmartLF SCi/SC Xpress series. These scanners handle documents from A1 up to A0 (approximately 33 x 46 inches) and beyond, preserving full color fidelity and detail.
Q: What institutions typically use large-format scanners?
Large-format scanners are used by map libraries, architectural firms and archives, engineering departments, municipal and government record offices, historical societies, and any institution holding oversized newspapers, posters, or technical drawings.
Library Automation Solutions
Q: What library automation products does Ristech offer?
Ristech offers a broad suite of library automation solutions: the LibraryGO Smart Library (self-service lending lockers in 60, 120, and 240 item capacities), LibraryGO Mini for compact installations, holdIT automated reservations kiosks, lendIT self-service lending machines, returnIT 24-hour item return and sorting systems, ServeIT checkout systems (S-PIRE and X-PLOR), secureIT library security systems, computeIT laptop storage and charging units, and countIT LIVE real-time occupancy monitoring.
Q: What is the LibraryGO Smart Library?
LibraryGO is a smart locker-based lending system that allows patrons to pick up holds, borrow items, and return materials 24 hours a day without staff assistance. Units are available in three sizes (60, 120, and 240 item capacity) and integrate with standard library management systems. A compact Mini version is available for smaller spaces or branch locations.
Q: Do your library automation products integrate with our existing ILS?
Yes. Ristech’s automation products are designed to integrate with major Integrated Library Systems (ILS) using standard protocols. Please contact our sales team with details about your current ILS and we will confirm compatibility and integration options.
Q: What is countIT LIVE?
countIT LIVE is a real-time people-counting and occupancy monitoring system for libraries. It provides live data on how many patrons are in the building or specific zones, with alerting when capacity thresholds are reached. This supports capacity planning, safety compliance, and service optimization.
Book Cleaning & Hygiene
Q: Do you offer book cleaning and sanitization equipment?
Yes. Ristech carries the STERI-Book SB-601 ultraviolet book sterilizer, the Depulvera book cleaning machine for dust and particulate removal, and the Nebula library material disinfecting machine. These products support hygiene and preservation best practices in public-facing library environments.
Q: Why is book cleaning important for libraries?
Physical library collections accumulate dust, mold spores, bacteria, and other contaminants over time. Regular cleaning and sanitization extends the life of materials, improves air quality in the stacks, and — particularly important in high-circulation public libraries — reduces the transfer of pathogens between patrons. Cleaning is also an important step before digitization, as dust and debris can affect scan quality.
Support & Service
Q: What kind of support does Ristech provide?
Ristech provides comprehensive support including equipment installation, operator training, on-site service, and ongoing technical support. We offer consulting throughout the sales process to ensure you select the right product for your needs, and our support programs continue well after installation.
Q: How do I request a quote or product demonstration?
You can reach our sales team through the Contact page at ristech.com or by calling 905-631-7451. We are happy to arrange a product demonstration, discuss your collection and workflow needs, and provide a tailored recommendation and quote.
Q: Does Ristech ship and install equipment internationally?
Yes. Ristech has installed products in more than 50 countries since 1995. Our team has experience managing international logistics and can coordinate installation and training for projects outside Canada and the United States.