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Is RFID Applicable in Libraries?
3 CommentsCan radio frequency identification be used in libraries and information centers?
—Name withheld
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Absolutely. Many libraries around the world have deployed RFID systems to track books, CDs and periodicals (see Libraries Adopt RFID by the Book, Tag Encryption for Libraries, 3M Launches Tag Data Manager for Libraries, Tags for CDs Get a Boost and Munich Libraries Add New Readers). Some have introduced automated checkout systems. RFID makes it easier to find books, ensure they are in the proper location and track when the items move within the facility. There are several companies that offer complete library systems, including 3M and Bibliotheca.
You can view a variety of stories RFID Journal has published on the subject here.
—Mark Roberti, Editor, RFID Journal
—Name withheld
———
Absolutely. Many libraries around the world have deployed RFID systems to track books, CDs and periodicals (see Libraries Adopt RFID by the Book, Tag Encryption for Libraries, 3M Launches Tag Data Manager for Libraries, Tags for CDs Get a Boost and Munich Libraries Add New Readers). Some have introduced automated checkout systems. RFID makes it easier to find books, ensure they are in the proper location and track when the items move within the facility. There are several companies that offer complete library systems, including 3M and Bibliotheca.
You can view a variety of stories RFID Journal has published on the subject here.
—Mark Roberti, Editor, RFID Journal
READERS' COMMENTS
RFID for Libraries - very successful
Libraries in the US are adopting RFID as quickly as budgets allow. Several companies like Integrated Technologies Group (ITG) help Libraries create current base line measurements for the way items are handled currently (Check-in, Check-out, Inventory) and show the ROI of implementing RFID. I have seen ITG implement complete RFID systems with expectations of an ROI within 12 months of deployment (studies are ongoing to determine actual results). Beyond specific measurements, some libraries report fewer repetitive motion injuries after tagging the AV collection - as the library staff does not need to open difficult locking cases to check if the correct disc is inside the DVD case. AV in Libraries tends to be the greatest “at risk” for theft and RFID allows for patron handling of AV through self-checkout without staff assistance – and at the same time cuts down on theft. The Library is a perfect environment for realizing the benefits of RFID.
Posted By: JONATHAN SEITZ 6/19/09 at 5:54 AM
Re: RFID for libraries
I am a volunteer for the "Friends" group of our local library. I am also an IT and RFID system professional working actively in the field. Our group funded the purchase of a commercial RFID [HF, 13.56MHz] library system a few years ago. It has most of the advantages mentioned above and the library staff, and most patrons, adore it. It greatly speeds checkin/checkout and is especially helpful for finding mis-shelved books and for taking the periodic inventory. [Handheld scanners sweep the shelves!] However, it seriously lacks as an effective security/anti-theft system -- especially for AV material. [Some patrons complain that the sticky labels themselves -- especially on CDs and DVDs -- screw up their players. Some material is returned with the labels damaged. Library patrons also seem to be very creative in bypassing the doorway security portals. Security camera tapes show patrons holding material above their heads -- and thus above the antenna. It takes very little shielding to block effective reads. Metallic handbags are especially effective. As a test, I have wrapped books in aluminum foil and prevented their being read. Additionally, we have caught patrons dropping materials out opened [for ventilation, not alarmed during the day] windows. Why patrons don't just take the DVDs home and copy them on their PCs is beyond me, but they obviously don't!!!
Posted By: g Green 6/26/09 at 7:15 AM
rfid in libraries
Good question... RFID in libraries is in use in many countries. This is one of the best technologies to safeguard the books and CDs/DVDs. I have a doubt. If anyone knows, please answer--I am in need of the RFID circuit diagram. If possible, please provide.
Posted By: Bala Naga Dinesh 7/11/09 at 9:23 PM