Abstract: A motorized card reader/encoder mechanism of novel design utilizes a positionable card handling system to perform card reading and/or encoding operations efficiently and with minimal space requirements. In a preferred configuration, the card mechanism includes a generally rotatable guide assembly having a card path for receiving and transporting a card for read/encode operations, and optionally, a generally fixed throat assembly for directing a card to the card guide assembly. The guide assembly is rotatable between a plurality of positions including a card transfer position wherein the guide assembly is in generally adjacent alignment with the throat assembly, a card read/encode position wherein the guide assembly is in a rotated position not in substantial alignment with the throat assembly, and a card retention position wherein the guide assembly card path is oriented generally vertically in order to transfer a card to a card capture bin.