Nowadays, staff budget is not in pace with fast-growing communities and libraries are expected to increase their program offerings and improve customer service. That is why many libraries are focusing towards Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for improving the speed and accuracy of circulation and functions and freeing library staff to provide direct service to its users.
RFID library management system also helps in protecting library’s collection and ensures that reader gets the most value out of the library. RFID system requires an investment and that is cleared within two years and the benefits are for decade or more. RFID provides great value to librarians and it is simple enough to use.
What is RFID?
RFID system is divided into two: a tag and a reader. Information is programmed on the tag; and the reader accesses that information and passes it to the person or system. In the tag, there is a microchip and an antenna; it is covered with a protective overlay. The durability is determined by the application. If it is placed inside a book, paper provides adequate protection. The back has an adhesive, so the assembly can be affixed to an item.
RFID library management system usually has readers installed in the security gates near the entrances and exits. These devices detect items that haven’t been checked out. Libraries using RFID technology has an automated returns and materials handling system. Productivity is enhanced with a hand-held reader, that pulls hold and transit materials after check-in.
RFID In Libraries Benefit to Visitors
Faster and easier: RFID-tagged items can be read and checked out simultaneously. Because the technology is fast and easy to use, visitors are more inclined to process their own transactions. If RFID is paired with an automated materials handling returns system, the productivity gains would be more.
Increased attention from staff: Many people find increased interaction with the library staff is the greatest benefit of RFID. When librarians are free with routine physical tasks, they can pay more attention to human connections.
More productive visit: Libraries face challenge of keeping track of multiple resources. With RFID, those items are accurately located; this helps the users and librarians easily find them. In the process libraries get an immediate benefit from the recovery of misplaced items.
RFID benefits staff: .Job satisfaction improves, and stress injuries decrease when librarians spend more time towards people and less time in processing books.
How Do I Encode The Tag?
Placing information on an RFID tag is easy and fast. Here’s how the conversion from barcodes to RFID works:
• All the equipment has been consolidated in an easy-to-maneuver conversion station.
• Item’s barcode is placed under a barcode scanner and the information is captured.
• The station dispenses a blank RFID tag.
• Items are placed on the RFID workstation and adheres the tag to the item.
• Workstation automatically encodes the information.
• The librarian replaces the item and removes the next item.
Risks
Libraries think a significant investment in RFID, board members and staff must know the potential pitfalls. It is started by researching other libraries’ experiences.
Research shows that some libraries have a smoother implementation, and some are more satisfied with post-implementation.
Once you have decided on the best match, go for the commitment. The most successful RFID installations result is from a close working relationship. Supplier assumes responsibility for hardware, software, integration, initial training and technical service.
If the supplier is unable to do this, consider using another supplier. Choose the best supplier that has a local or regional presence.
Be attentive as RFID library management system brings immediate and dramatic improvements. They have to accept what appears to be minor annoyance and enjoy the benefits. In a short time, small annoyances grow large.
Look around there are affordable systems that it does not compromise on quality and efficiency.
Choose a system that has a well-designed mobile conversion station that gives staff to efficiently work among the stacks. This makes the process faster, easier, and less disruptive. Find a supplier allowing you to rent the mobile conversion station.
Choose a supplier who has tested solutions and is fixed to the latest standards of quality and interoperability and has proof of compliance.
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