If we do this, each patron would actually get two cards (with the same barcode on both): a wallet card, similar in shape and size to our current cards, and a keychain tag, 2.5 inches by 0.875 inches, with a hole in one end. Either card would work for checking out.

Because the company we've been getting cards from does not do this type of card, we would be going with another company. That means redesigning the appearance of the cards, so we're working on card designs now.

We're not sure yet how similar to the old cards they will look, except that we're pretty sure we're going to stick with a cream color background, like the old cards, but we're thinking of going with a dark green design instead of the current blue. Beyond that, we're still tossing around different designs. It can't be exactly the same anyway, among other things because the specifications don't allow us to print designs as close to the edge of the card as the old one did. Also, the keychain card is a different shape, so we need a new design for that in any case. One good thing is that we can use up to four colors (including the background) on the new cards. The old cards had only two colors (the cream and the blue). Full-color cards are also available, but those cost more, so we're going to go with the four-color limit. So, no photograph.

We'll still be using the same barcode format, so anybody who wants to keep their old card would be allowed to do so. It'll still work. If you always carry your wallet and like your old card, Bjorn Stronginthearm is your uncle.

Between the redesign and the usual delays with ordering something like this, it'll be a few months, but we're hoping to have these some time in 2007, if all goes according to plan.