Modernizing Library Security with Electronic Access Control
By Skip Reid | June 26, 2026
Challenge
A public library in the Greater Boston metropolitan area needed to improve building security while maintaining a welcoming environment for staff and visitors. The existing mechanical key system provided limited control over who could access the facility, making it difficult to secure sensitive areas and manage lost or duplicated keys.
The city and library leadership wanted a modern electronic access control system that would enhance security, improve key control, and integrate with the building's existing security infrastructure. They also wanted a trusted partner with extensive experience serving public institutions.
Working with a local commercial locksmith, the city selected Dugmore & Duncan through our MHEC contract to provide the products and expertise needed for the project.
Solution
Dugmore & Duncan collaborated closely with the city, library director, and commercial locksmith to design and supply a comprehensive electronic access control solution for 24 door openings throughout the facility.
The project focused on securing the building's exterior entrances and stairwells, while allowing the existing interior door hardware to remain in service where appropriate. This approach improved security while maximizing the value of the library's existing investment.
To provide centralized control and monitoring, Dugmore & Duncan supplied a Honeywell NetAXS-123 modular, web-enabled access control system. The system allows authorized personnel to manage credentials, schedules, and door activity through a user-friendly interface.
Additional security enhancements included:
Door position switches installed on every upgraded opening for integration with the building's alarm system.
Passive Infrared (PIR) detectors to enhance intrusion detection.
Mullion-mounted proximity card readers for convenient and secure building access.
A HID Badge Printer Kit, allowing the library to quickly create identification badges for staff and authorized visitors.
Durable SARGENT 10-Series cylindrical locks, 8200-Series mortise locks, and 80-Series exit devices selected for reliable daily operation.
To strengthen physical key control, Dugmore & Duncan also designed and supplied a new Medeco KeyMark Small Format Interchangeable Core (SFIC) master key system, providing secure key management for areas that continued to use mechanical locks.
Results
The completed project provided the library with a significantly higher level of security while simplifying day-to-day facility management.
Key benefits included:
Improved control over who can enter the building and secured areas.
Better protection against unauthorized access and lost or duplicated keys.
Real-time monitoring of door status through integrated door position switches.
Enhanced life safety through integration with the building's alarm system.
Simplified credential management using proximity cards and on-site badge printing.
A scalable electronic access control platform capable of supporting future expansion.
By combining electronic access control with a high-security mechanical key system, the library now has a flexible, layered security solution that protects staff, visitors, collections, and public assets.
Your Electronic Access Control Partner
Whether you're upgrading a public library, municipal building, school, healthcare facility, or commercial property, Dugmore & Duncan helps organizations select and implement the right electronic access control solution for their needs.
From planning and product selection to hardware coordination and integration with trusted installation partners, our team works closely with facility managers, security professionals, and locksmiths to deliver secure, reliable, and scalable door opening solutions.
Looking to modernize your facility's security? Contact Dugmore & Duncan to discuss an access control solution designed around your building, your users, and your long-term security goals.