SMS notifications through MessageBee are simple to implement and fully customizeable to your library's needs.  The process and requirements are outlined below.


1. Required Documentation for SMS Campaign Approval


Before SMS messaging can be activated, we must submit your campaign for carrier approval.  To proceed, pleae provide the following:

W-9 Form

  • A completed and signed W-9 form for your organization. 

Privacy Policy

  • Clearly explain how you collect, use, store, and share user data.
  • Explicitly state that personal information and mobile numbers collected through opt-in will not be shared, sold, or rented to third parties for marketing purposes.
  • Provide contact information for privacy-related inquiries.

Messaging Terms and Conditions

Messaging Terms & Conditions may be included within your Privacy Policy or listed separately on your website.


They must be publicly accessible and include:

  • Library name
  • Types of messages patrons will receive (we recommend describing these as Customer Care/Account Notifications)
  • Message frequency (e.g., “Message frequency may vary”)
  • Cost disclosure (e.g., “Message and data rates may apply”)
  • Patron support contact details (include “Text HELP for assistance” and provide an email and/or phone number)
  • Clear opt-out instructions (e.g., “Text STOP to cancel,” or instructions for updating preferences)


For more information, review this article which contains more details regarding these requirements.


2. Information Needed to Begin


To configure your SMS notifications, we will need the following:

  • Notification types you would like to send via MessageBee (e.g. hold pickup, overdue, etc.), along with the exact wording for each message.
  • The area code desired for the "from" SMS number.  Unique will procure a number(s) within this area code. 
    • In some instances, the library may have a number they would like used by Unique.  We can complete a letter of authorization which will allow Unique to take of the the texting functionality of this number. 
  • Location names and location codes (for multi-branch or multi-site libraries), if applicable.


3. SMS Character Limits and Segmentation


SMS messages must be 160 characters or fewer to count as a single message segment.


If a message exceeds 160 characters:

  • It will still be delivered.
  • It will count as multiple message segments for billing and reporting purposes.


3. Dynamic Data & Charater Counts


When using dynamic fields (such as pickup location, number of items, or item titles), these merged values count toward the total character length.


For example, a template that includes:

  • Pickup location
  • Number of holds
  • Item titles


may exceed 160 characters depending on the data being inserted.


We recommend keeping templates concise to minimize the likelihood of multi-segment messages.