The datasheet for the reader says it is 2400 bps. I would not use a PIC. The ZX-328n from ZBasic can support up to 4 software UARTS that are full duplex, buffered, and operate in the background (with 4 UARTs, the max speed is 9600) . The ZX-328n has a built-in bootloader (uses the highspeed hardware UART) and the ZBasic compiler is free. The ZX-328n costs $10. You will to add the crystal, caps and an inverter for the hardware UART but this project will be child's play using it while it will be difficult with a PIC & PBP.