FOREWORD

As a student of Master of Library and Information Science, It gives me immense

pleasure to publish this information booklet as a part of my study.

I have prepared information booklet under the title “RFID Technology for
Library” in which I have tried to cover details about RFID system component,
RFID System mechanism, Technical choice, how does it works, Advantages of
RFID systems etc.

This information product will be useful for all type of libraries, library science
professionals, students and teachers of Library and Information Science. I have
no words to express my gratitude to my respected sir, Shri P.C.Shah who
helped and provided me constant guidance to complete this information booklet.

I am very much thankful to Mrs. Geeta G. Gadhavi and other teaching and non-
teaching staff members for their untiring efforts, sympathetic attitude and timely
help during this information booklet.

I also express my sincere thanks to my all friends for support. Special thanks to
my parent whose inspire to me for this professional course.
 Content

 Introduction

 Traditional Security

 Origin of RFID

 Application of RFID Technology

 Benefits of RFID for Library

 Advantages of RFID over other ID Technologies

 RFID system components

 Technical choice

 How does RFID Works

 RFID Systems Mechanism

 RFID at Each Step of Material Handling

 Conclusion
 Introduction

Emerging technologies that relieve the personnel from time-consuming

library operations, have always been of interest to libraries. When libraries of all
kinds (public, academic, special) are facing budget crunches, considering new
technologies as the potential alternatives for cost saving and hassle free
management of library operations is imperative. RFID (Radio Frequency
Identification) system is such a promising alternative that aid in the efficient flow
of library material.

RFID is an innovative automated library system for automatic

identification and tracking of library material. Currently RFID applications range
from book tracking and stock management, to theft detection and automatic book
sorting. Radio frequency identification (RFID) technology is a dynamic link
between people, objects and processes and in the near future it plays a prime
role in data collection, identification as well as analysis necessary for specific
library operations. An automated library with the support of RFID technology
would be a “self service station” that demands least intervention by the library
personnel. Efforts are being made to introduce self-service “check-in” and
“checkout” that avoid long delay in the delivery of library material and also for
achieving better efficiency in operations.

RFID is used in libraries primarily to automate the book handling process

including checkout, inventory control, check-in and anti-theft. When combined
with Computer Assisted sorting equipment, RFID facilitates and speeds up even
book sorting. Automating the library material handling process allows librarians to
spend more time with the clientele, thus, increasing the ‘user satisfaction’.
 Traditional Security

Normally security required is when we have some valuable materials with us.
Libraries have different kind of materials. Many of them have some unique value.
Thus library resources are to be kept under security. Normally, libraries are
having following different types of security:

1. Manual
Here a person is appointed the main entrance of library. He will examine and
check whatever any material or document is not being carried outside the library
without the permission of authority.

But there are certain limitations of this manual system.

• One is person can not find hidden documents or materials.

• These types of checking requires more time.
• We can’t utilize human power if no. of visitors is less.
• Due to these limitations, Machine based security system
introduced.

2. Video Camera
Video cameras are also used for security system are many places. However they
can be useful of some extend only. Because some limitations that one can hide
materials to get it outside.
To overcome these advantages we have a latest technology system which
identifies hidden documents also. This finally is available with RFID Technology.
 Origin of RFID

RFID was introduced in the early 1980s for item tracking and access
control applications. Tracking of materials is done using radio frequency based
technology combined with microchip technology, hence designated as RFID
(Radio Frequency Identification). These contact less and wireless automatic
identification data capturing systems are highly effective in hostile environments
such as, industry and logistics, textile and libraries, where barcode labels cannot
survive and need for inventory control and waste management. Owing to its
ability to track moving objects RFID has been established itself in livestock
identification and automated vehicle identification systems. In recent times, its
use has risen to track books, audio/video tapes and other multimedia collection in
a library. After realizing the advantages of RFID technology, libraries are
considering it, the more productive tool for flow management sooner than
barcodes and other identification technologies.

Application of RFID Technology

Access control application

Airline baggage identification system
Animal tracking and tracing
Assets tracking
Business firm
Hospital
Jewelry Shop
Stores
Defense
Government Agency
Library
Logistics
Manufacturing Industry
Museum
Sport timing

Benefits of RFID for Libraries

• Check-out stations can be automated with easy, intuitive interfaces,

since several items in a pile can be “grabbed” at a time;

• Book returns can be automated with check-in and database

updates completed simultaneously in the book return chute.

• Fast and convenient on-the-shelf inventory allows accuracy in

collection management;

• Automatic book sorting.

RFID technology uses are limitless, flexible and easier to use than other
forms of data collection. RFID is a multi-purpose technology, however, the full
potential of RFID technology and some of its unique applications and solutions
have yet to come to the information industry. RFID is the new technology that
revolutionizes Library Management by increased productivity in deficit budgets.
It can be harnessed to:

• Reduce material handling time.

• Do more frequent and accurate inventory to better manage

collections.
 • Improve ergonomics of the repetitive tasks of librarians.

• Improve customer service.

A big advantage of RFID is that it’s not dependent upon the ‘line-of-sight’,
since it uses radio-frequency signals. Since RFID does not require ‘line-of-sight’
between the transponder and the reader, it surmounts the limitations of other
automatic identification devices, such as bar coding. RFID systems work
effectively in hostile environments where excessive dirt, dust, moisture and/or
poor visibility would normally hinder rapid identification process. One of the most
outstanding benefits of RFID is its ability to read through these environments at
remarkable speeds — responding in less than 100 milliseconds in most cases.

Advantages of RFID Systems

Rapid charging/discharging
1. The use of RFID reduces the amount of time required to perform circulation
operations. The most significant time savings are attributable to the facts that
information can be read from RFID tags much faster than from barcodes and that
several items in a stack can be read at the same time. While initially unreliable,
the anti-collision algorithm that allows an entire stack to be charged or
discharged now appears to be working well.
2. The other time savings realized by circulation staff are modest unless the
RFID tags replace both the EM security strips or RF tags of older theft detection
systems and the barcodes of the automated library system - i.e., the system is a
comprehensive RFID system that combines RFID security and the tracking of
materials throughout the library; or it is a hybrid system that uses EM for security
and RFID for tracking, but handles both simultaneously with a single piece of
equipment. There can be as much as a 50 percent increase in throughput. The
time savings are less for charging than for discharging because the time required
for charging usually is extended by social interaction with patrons.

Simplified patron self-charging/discharging

1. For patrons using self-charging, there is a marked improvement because they
do not have to carefully place materials within a designated template and they
can charge several items at the same time.
2. Patron self-discharging shifts that work from staff to patrons. Staff is relieved
further when readers are installed in book-drops.

High reliability
1. The readers are highly reliable. RFID library systems claim an almost 100
percent detection rate using RFID tags.
2. There are fewer false alarms than with older technologies once an RFID
system is properly tuned.
3. RFID systems encode the circulation status on the RFID tag. This is done by
designating a bit as the "theft"(EAS) bit and turning it off at time of charge and on
at time of discharge. If the material that has not been properly charged is taken
past the exit sensors, an immediate alarm is triggered. Another option is to use
both the "theft"(EAS) bit and the online interface to an automated library system,
the first to signal an immediate alarm and the second to identify what has been
taken.

High-speed inventorying
Unique advantage of RFID systems is their ability to scan books on the shelves
without tipping them out or removing them. A hand-held inventory reader can be
moved rapidly across a shelf of books to read all of the unique identification
information. Using wireless technology, it is possible not only to update the
inventory, but also to identify items which are out of proper order.
Automated materials handling
Another application of RFID technology is automated materials handling. This
includes conveyer and sorting systems that can move library materials and sort
them by category into separate bins or onto separate carts. This significantly
reduces the amount of staff time required to ready materials for re-shelving.

Long tag life

Finally, RFID tags last longer than barcodes because nothing comes into contact
with them. Most RFID vendors claim a minimum of 100,000 transactions before a
tag may need to be replaced.

Increase Security
One of the important aspects of installing RFID systems in library is the security.
RFID system can minimize theft of library items. Only the materials which are
legitimately checked- out will be allowed to be taken outside the library.

RFID System Components

An RFID system comprises of a number of components including a range of

transponders, handheld or stationary readers, data input units, and system
software. The transponders or ID tags are the backbone of the technology and
come in all shapes, sizes and read ranges.

A comprehensive RFID system has the following key components:

RFID Tags: RFID tags that are electronically programmed with unique
information. Flexible, paper-thin smart labels that are applied directly to library
items. Each RFID tag contains a tiny chip, which is both readable and writable
and can store information to identify items in your collection. In library
applications, it also stores a security bit and if needed, information to support
sorting systems.

There are two main types of tags: Passive and Active:

• Passive tags only provide information when scanned by a reader.

• Active tags actively transmit data to a reader.

Within a passive tag there can be different types of microchip e.g. Hitag1, Hitag2,
EM4102, I-Code or Q5 etc. each with varying levels of functionality; increased
memory, read/write or read-only capabilities.

Tags are also are available with different frequencies:

• Low frequency (120-140Khz)

• High frequency (13.56 MHz)
• Ultra-high frequency (868-956Mhz)
Low Frequency tags are a mature technology and provide a robust read
especially in water. The main advantage is the low cost. Typical applications:
Animal identification/agricultural, access control, asset management.

High Frequency tags offer typically the same read range as low frequency.
However the main advantage is the construction method used which allowing for
flatter forms i.e. label tags. Typical applications: scientific/medical
smartcard/security.

Ultra-high Frequency tags offer the best possible read range and fast data
transfer speeds. Typical applications: retail, supply chain management,
remote/wireless monitoring.

Read-only microchips hold no data except a unique ID that can be registered on

a database against an asset. Read/write microchips hold and update data about
the specific item it is attached to.

RFID Security gates: Placed in the entrance of libraries, the main functions of
security gates is detection. The gates will have built-in radio antennas which can
easily detect unauthorized movement of item within its range. It detects
whenever an item with a tag which has not been de-activated. Security gates will
also have the same radio frequency as the tags. In most of the RFID
applications. The security gates acts as a stand-alone component.
Antenna: A conduit between RFID tags and the coupler. RFID antennas emit
radio waves that activate RFID tags as they pass through the activation field.
After a tag is activated, it can send information to or receive information from the
coupler. An antenna connected to the coupler.

RFID Inventory Readers: Inventory readers are used for stock verification for
locating specific item fast. During the inventory checking process, the readers
can be directly connected to the library servers with databases or store the data
in a pocket PC and transfer to the library database upon completion. Lets you
take inventory and locate missing items. The RFID Inventory Control System
consists of two parts: 1) a hand-held RFID reader that you can use to scan items
on your shelves and 2) software developed that lets you generate inventory
reports about the collected data.

Low Frequency Readers High Frequency Readers

(125-134.2 KHz) (13.56 MHz)

Due to the range of tags available and the multitude of applications that RFID
can be applied to, arrays of RFID readers are available on the market. You can
choose between static readers for wall mounted/desktop applications or hand-
held readers that can operate in tethered or batch modes.

Each reader has its own benefits; from low cost, low spec to high cost, high spec.
There are also hybrid readers that combine RFID and barcode technologies.

If you cannot see a reader that is suitable for your application, please do not
hesitate to contact us and we will endeavor to source the right hardware for your
needs.

Coupler: The link between RFID tags and the PC. The coupler can send
information in two directions: It can read information from a tag and send it to the
PC (read mode), or it can read information from the PC and send it to an RFID
tag (write mode)

PC: The link between the coupler and your library automation system. It has
developed software that runs on your PC to provide an interface between the
RFID hardware and your library automation system.
Server: A server to receive and decode the information and to communicate with
the automated library system.

Tags also known as transponders are electronic chips consisting of an

integrated circuit and antenna coil that communicate with a reader by means of a
radio frequency signal. They have an EAS (Electronic Article Surveillance)
function to detect thefts. It comes in various shapes and sizes. Tags have three
memory components:
1. Item identification i.e., barcode no.
2. Security bit that is turned off and on as items are checked out and
checked in
3. Variable memory that is of use in sorting the items.

RFID tags are available as labels with adhesive backings and the ability to reel
through a label printer. After sticking RFID label on the book, its information such
as Accession Number is registered in the chip of the label. This function allows
writing such information on chip either from the Library database or by scanning
existing barcode labels, if any. The tags can be purchased blank when
retrospective conversion of barcode collection is to be taken up or pre-
programmed, if automation is at initial stage i.e., libraries, which have collection
without barcodes. Reader or interrogator is an electronic device that activates a
transponder and retrieves data stored in its IC chip. It is used for communication
between RFID tags and a host computer system. A reader generally consists of
an RF transmitter and receiver and an antenna for communicating with tags.
Communication between the reader and a transponder (tag) via radio waves is a
two-step process: in the first step a reader through radio waves activates the
transponder and in the second step the transponder responds by returning the
data on the IC. Reader may be portable and stationary type and with the aid of a
processor it decodes the information. Server is the focal point of a
comprehensive RFID system, which acts as a communication gateway among
various components. It receives the data transmitted from the antenna and
exchanges the information with the circulation database.

Technical Choice
The choice between low frequency and high frequency depends upon the
application. A low-frequency device typically provides slower data transfer and
must work at closer distances to an object. Relative speed of the tag moving on a
production line past an interrogation unit is approximately 20 miles an hour.
On the other hand, high-frequency devices can work at distances up to 250 feet
and at relative speeds greater than 150 miles per hour. Barring the high fixed
costs, high frequency system is suitable for a ‘smart library’. It works when a
reader sends a signal to the transponder or ID tag via an antenna. The
transponder’s electronics return the ID code via a modulated signal being
continuously reflected off the transponder’s antenna, giving an impressively quick
read. On the other hand, low frequency systems are more suitable for tracking,
monitoring or controlling the workflow of objects used for manufacturing,
production, and processes.

How does it Work

An RFID system consists of a reader, comprising a transmitter and receiver,

together with an antenna and an integrated circuit transponder tag or “smart
labels”– microchips attached to the antenna. The transmitter sends out a radio
signal on a specific frequency using the antenna. The tag if within the
transmitter’s reading range recognizes this signal. The tag then responds with a
signal that is recognized by the receiver. The significance of recent RFID
technology is that most tags are battery-less and receive the energy to power the
tag from the transmitter signal. This not only makes the tags low-cost devices but
also saves the environment since most of the applications require low-cost and
single use throwaway tags. Smart label or tag (microchip) can be embedded
virtually into any object including books and other stock of library individually
identifies the book using a unique, unalterable code. The chip communicates with
the circulation database of a library so that each item’s location, whether on the
shelves, checked out or being processed, can be determined. With a hand-held
reader the clientele and staff members can scan the shelves to find out the
misplaced objects by radio pulse. Tagging job can be undertaken either by the
library or a book jobber or the publisher at the time of publication. However, most
libraries prefer to maintain their own tagging and verification station. When
RFID tags are passed in front of a reading station, a radio field charges the chip
and lets it transmit its data. Thus, the information contained in the microchips
affixed to the library materials is “captured” and retrieved using radio frequency
technology regardless of its location.

RFID Systems Mechanism

RFID Transponder

An RFID tag is the most important link in any RFID system. It has the ability to
store information relating to the specific item to which they are attached, rewrite
again without any requirement for contact or line of sight. Data within a tag may
provide identification for an item, proof of ownership, original storage location,
loan status and history.
RFID Tag consists of an integrated circuit and an antenna combined to form a
transponder. RFID tags collect the energy to operate from a Radio Frequency
(RF) field emitted by a reader device; therefore they do not need a battery. When
energized by a radio signal from a fixed position reader or handheld scanner, the
tag returns the stored information in order that the item to which it is attached can
be easily located
The chip also has a "multi-read" function, which means that several tags can be
read at once.
RFID tags have been specifically designed to be affixed into library media,
including books, CDs, DVDs and tapes.
It is thin, flexible and thus can be laminated between paper and plastic. With
special method to attach to books; patron is totally unaware that the tag is there.

KEY BENIFIT
• Allows check-out and check-in several items simultaneously
• Information directly attached to product
• Performing both identification and antitheft in one single operation
• Different shape and sizes available
• Able to tag almost anything
• Accelerate scanning and identifying

Counter Station

The Counter Station is a staff assisted station on services such as loan, return,
tagging, sorting and etc. It is loaded with arming/disarming module, tagging
module and sorting module. Arming/Disarming module allows EAS (Electronic
module and sorting module. Arming/Disarming module allows EAS (Electronic to
trigger/not trigger the alarm of the EAS gate. Checking of EAS status of library
material is easy. The staff puts the item on the reader and click on the view to
display the information stored inside the tag and status of EAS. There are also
feature of Auto Arming and Auto Disarm. Auto Arm/Disarm will automatic
arm/disarm library material that is within the Reader range.
Together with circulation module from Library Automation Software, this station is
used for the following services:

• Editing and updating of patron’s record

• Add and deleting of patron’s record
• Generate loan history for a particular patrons
• Managing of fines incurred by the patron
• Arm/Disarm of EAS bit inside the library material
• Program of new library material
• Sort item in accordance to their branch and category number
• The features of this station depend on the module loaded by the
Library Automation Software.

COUNTER STATION
KEY BENEFITS:
• Provide Value Added Customer Service instead of manual daily
routine
• Perform media check-in/-out for those patrons who choose not to
use the self service system
• Help patron that need assistance from the staff

Self Check out / in Station

The Patron Self Check-out station is basically a computer with a touch screen
and a built-in RFID reader, plus special software for personal identification, book
and other media handling and circulation. After identifying the patron with a
library ID card, a barcode card, or his personal ID number (PIN), the patron is
asked to choose the next action (check-out of one or several books). After
choosing check-out , the patron puts the book(s) in front of the screen on the
RFID reader and the display will show the book title and its ID number (other
optional information can be shown if desired) which have been checked out.

The patron then confirms that he has finished the check-out process and a
receipt is printed, showing which books have been borrowed and the return date.
The RFID tag in the book is set on quiet as a result no alarm will go off at the
EAS gates.
It is also possible to use the station for Check-In (return) of books. In this case
the patron identifies herself, chooses return and then puts one book or a stack of
books onto the reader. She will receive a receipt. If the books were to be taken
through the gate now, an alarm would sound.

One important point for library productivity is that the whole process is
significantly less time consuming than with barcode and magnetic strip system;
therefore long lines are avoided and fewer stations are needed for the same
process.

KEY BENEFITS:
1. to Librarian:
• Speeds up book check-in / check-out
• Frees staff to better service patrons
• Better space planning
• Increases membership rate
2. to Patrons:
• Easy to use: books can be read in any orientation
• Reduces queuing time
• Provides patron privacy
• Encourages patrons to come back

Book-Drop (Return Station)

The Book Drops can be located anywhere, within or outside the library. Possible
remote locations outside the library include MRT/train stations, shopping centers,
schools; etc. This offers unprecedented flexibility and convenience of returning
library items at anytime of the day, even when the library is closed.
Patron inserts the library item into the slot. The reader captures the electronic
signature and sends to backend system for loan cancellation. Patron is
acknowledged by beeping sound and flashlight. Patron’s record is updated
immediately. This is possible due to the seamless link between RFID
Management System and the host computer system. As such, users who have
reached their loan quota can start borrowing items once they have returned them
through the Book Drop.

KEY BENEFITS:

• The ability to return books during off hours.

• Loans for the returned items will be instantaneously cancelled so
that patron may immediately borrow again.
• Librarians are able to allocate more time to customer service, as
they are free from the labor-intensive loan cancellation activity
associated with bar-code system.
• Display the return status and printing receipt.
• The design of the Book Drops is such that items cannot be
retrieved back once deposited.
Shelf Management System

The Shelf Management Solution makes locating and identifying items on the
shelves an easy task for librarians. It comprises basically of a portable scanner
and a base station.

The solution is designed to cover three main requirements:

• Search for individual books requested
• Inventory check of the whole library stock
• Search for books which are miss-helved

In situations when search function is required, whether for a particular item or an

item category, the information is first entered into the portable scanner from the
base station, and when a foreign item is found on the shelves, a built-in beeper
sound to alert the librarians.

KEY BENEFITS:
1. Changes inventory process:
• No more book handling: just pass the reader across shelved books
to perform an instant inventory.
 • Accuracy: book identification numbers are registered in the Shelf-
Management Reader. The data is then downloaded to the central
database.
• The fastest inventory you have ever made: 20 books per second.
• Notification: books to be pulled are up-loaded to the reader for
quick identification.
2. User friendly:
• Light weight
• Wand allows easy reading of high and low shelves
3. Saves time and resources:
• Implementers indicate a 75% reduction in human resources
required for shelf management activities.

Anti-theft Detection
The RFID EAS Gate is the anti-theft part of the RFID Library Management
System using the same RFID tags embedded in the library items. Each lane is
able to track items of 1 meter or more and would trigger the alarm system when
an un-borrowed item passed through them. The alarm will sound and lights on
the gate will flash as patron passes through with the library material.
The EAS Anti-Theft Gate is used to detect RFID tag that is equipped with EAS
(Electronic Article Surveillance). It can detect the RFID tags within 1 meter range
without interference of magnetic items, upon detecting of Armed RFID tags, the
alarm will sound on the gate. It has option to trigger a Camera to record patrons
who trigger the alarm to the Surveillance Station.
Theft detection is an integral feature of the chip within the tag. It is a stand-alone
technology, which operates independently of the library database.

FEATURES:
• Detect EAS Armed RFID tags
• Multi-item detection
• Able to integrate camera with the gate (Option)
• Gale to integrate with Surveillance Station (Option)

KEY BENEFITS:
• Single technology is required for both inventory and theft
management of the library.
• Library staff is alerted immediately when un-borrowed items passes
through the theft detection gates.
• Would-be thieves are deterred by the physical presence of the
gates.
• Number of patrons passing through the gantry is captured by a
counter on the gates Alarm volume can be easily controlled.
 RFID at Each Step of Material Handling

The RFID tag entrenched into each item (books or other media) of the library
brings efficiency at all stages of the library management process. The RFID tags
communicate to RFID stations (a combination of the reader and the antenna is
an RFID station), which are connected to Integrated Library Software (ILS) and
allow instantaneous update of the database.

1 Item identification and theft prevention

RFID smart labels or tags are reliable and easy to use. Tags are flexible paper-
thin with an electronic chip, which are wireless readable and writeable. They can
be read using radio frequency technology that operates without contact and line
of sight. They are designed for lasting to lifetime of the item they identify and also
perform the EAS (Electronic Article Surveillance) function to detect the thefts.
Library users leaving the building pass through a four-lane EAS (Electronic
Article Surveillance) exit gate, which uses RFID to check articles being carried
through. Items not authorized for taking away trigger the security system’s
alarms.

2 Conversion Station and Cataloguing

Conversion from barcode to RFID is a combination of programming and the

application of the RFID tag.
Programming
Programming is a single operation that involves scanning of the book ID,
encoding of the RFID tag and the activation of the antitheft. The programming of
the RFID tag can be done while reading the barcode. A unique number can also
be pre-programmed in the RFID tag to link it with the book references.

Application of the RFID tag

Application of RFID tag reduces time and inconvenience of this repetitive task,
since only one label can be applied for both the item ID and antitheft function.
And for new items or libraries adopting automation for the first time, the process
is even easier, since one just has to stick and program one single label.

3 Circulation Desks

Circulation desk where librarians do manual checkout and check in of the items,
with prolonged queue times is in desperate need of RFID technology, which
lessens the cumbersome processes and makes the processes fast and
convenient for both patron and the staff. To borrow items users simply identify
themselves at self-service stations and place the items they want to take out on a
pad with an antenna. The borrowing station updates the database, assigning the
book to the patron and resets the chip to show that the item can be taken from
the building. All this is done in one automatic process. Moreover, RFID allows for
multiple checks out of books. And if the library utilizes RFID even for patron
cards, then the user identification can also be read with the same reader at the
same time, which benefits the library check in process.

Self Check Out

RFID check out system is user friendly, highly intuitive and reduces the queuing
times. At this station, the books to be checked out are placed on the deck and
both patron card and stack of books can be read simultaneously i.e., recording
the patron’s ID, the borrowed items and deactivating the antitheft. All this
updating of the library database happens automatically even for multiple items
checked out by the same borrower. A receipt confirming the details of borrowed
material and due date is printed out.

Check in
Books can be placed on deck station one by one without any intervention by
staff. The returned item is instantaneously updated in the ILS and the antitheft is
activated. This automated book return gives enhanced benefits to patrons as well
as librarians. For patrons it offers great flexibility in returning their material when
they want and gives better availability of books as updating the library database
is done in real time. Optionally, a receipt is also printed out to confirm the
returning of borrowed material. And for librarians, it saves time by avoiding
certain repetitive tasks, since multiple items can be read/write at the same time
and at quick pace. It offers reliable book sorting system due to the fact that RFID
tags can be read quickly and independent of tag orientation or position.

4. Inventory Management

With RFID, inventory management becomes possible, fast and accurate, as it is

at least 20 times faster than with barcodes. By carrying a handheld inventory
reader along the bookshelves to collect the data and do the inventory. Smart
labels inlayed in books can be read in seconds. Up to 64,000 books ID numbers
can be stored in the reader memory. It is tremendously time consuming why
because instead of handling each book, just walking down a section of a
gangway the computer wand reads it, since it’s multidirectional. The hand held
reader has an audible signal to indicate the misplaced books. This is useful for
taking inventory, finding missing items and identifying misfiled items, a common
and labor-intensive problem to correct in a library. The collected data is then
automatically downloaded to the library database.
Sorting
When book is put on the deck, Integrated Library Software (ILS) harnessing
RFID flashes the accession number and shelf number, which facilitate shelving of
items. And it provides additional information such as item belonging to other
location or if it is a reserved item, etc.

Book Drop
When books are returned through the ‘Book Drop’ facility of a library, the smart
labels are automatically read and both patron record and library database get
updated. The theft detection system into the smart labels is simultaneously
activated. This Book Drop allows patrons to return items 24 hours a day, 7 days
a week. A conveyor sorting system for books that are returned through the Book
Drop can be installed.
 Conclusion

A library and information system cannot be said fully automated, unless the ‘Auto
ID technology is not incorporated into the ‘Integrated Library System’. One such
Auto ID technology is RFID, which proven to bring convenience and efficiency in
the item management through the automation of library functions.

Henceforth, many libraries are choosing RFID technology, which significantly

improves the customer service and enhances the patron satisfaction. RFID refers
to the process of grabbing and retrieving data from integrated circuits using ‘radio
frequency’ transmission. RFID seen as the next generation of the barcode offers
libraries marvelous opportunities by contributing to saving time and manpower
and creating cost efficient and total quality services. Embedding books and other
library items with radio frequency identification chips, widely known as RFID tags,
would improve efficiency by helping staff track materials better, deter theft and
allow patrons to check out books faster.

An Integrated Library System harnessing RFID technology, convert a traditional

library into a ‘Booksmart Library’ by reducing queue times at circulation desk,
quick inventory control without handling books, trouble-free identification of
misplaced books, automatic book sorting and theft prevention and more time for
library staff to assist the patrons. However, careful analysis of potential
implications relating to “individual privacy” is global imperative, since privacy
advocates worry about what happens when the RFIDs leave the library.
 Prepared By:

Kamalesh J. Patel
MLISC 2006-2007
Department of Library and Information Science
Gujarat University,
Ahmedabad-380 009.

E-mail: kamalesh_jp@yahoo.com