RFID technology in libraries and media centres
A RFID library system is composed of:
• RFID labels applied to the books, documents and other media available in the library. Each microchip is unique and allows the identification of any book or item of media without error.
• RFID readers that are connected directly to the library management system. When a chip is “read” by the RFID reader, the information contained in the library management system is pulled to obtain all the data associated with this chip (author, title, collection, location, etc. and the status of the book – available, already on loan…).
When the book is taken out of the library, the system records the name of the person, the date… and it deactivates the anti-theft function.
When the book is returned, the system records the fact that it has been returned, flags it as available – taking into account the time required to put it back on the shelf – and it reactivates the anti-theft function.
• Anti-theft detectors
Customer Satisfaction
Several RFID chips can be read simultaneously, making the management of “exits and returns” quick and easy.
Library users are autonomous and can loan books and other media anonymously and confidentially.
Less Theft
The same RFID label is used for both functions: the management of the books and media and as an anti-theft device.
Library staff – Less admin for more added-value
Thanks to the RFID technology, the staff are not tied to the reception desk any more. Users can return and loan books without any human interaction allowing the staff to concentrate on helping with specific queries, advising users, classifying their collections, organising events etc…