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So You Want RFID in Your Library?

 

Sunday, November 01, 2009
Adi Tedjasaputra.
by Adi Tedjasaputra

With the profound impact on modern libraries around the world, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology has changed the way libraries increase productivity and improve their patrons' experience. Thanks to Barcode and EAS systems, which have introduced the benefits of electronic security and automatic identification, RFID has now become the latest technology trend in libraries.

The possibility to integrate security with automatic identification is the most attractive benefit of RFID in libraries. With the latest RFID technology, there are several other benefits that come into play. What are they? Why do we need RFID in libraries? How can RFID improve the business process in a library?

Integration of RFID technology in the business process of library has been tried by many libraries around the world. Some have learnt the hard way and failed, some have succeeded by learning from failures, others learned from the failures and successes of the early adopters and implement the best RFID solutions. RFID technology implementation in Harrogate College Library, for example, achieves smoother transaction and lower security risks. Some drawbacks in RFID implementation in Silkeborg Public Library, as another example, show that RFID technology in library was still maturing about five years ago.

The best RFID solution for library is actually the one that seamlessly integrates RFID technology with the existing library management system. We usually call this Integrated RFID Library Management System. The objective of an Integrated RFID Library Management System is to empower both library staff and patrons to conduct their activities with maximum productivity and highest level of positive experience. RFID technology is available and ready to support this vision. Here is one reason why you should consider Integrated RFID Library Management System: Security

Enforcing Library Security

As explained in the previous RFID Asia Journal, the EAS systems that are currently deployed in modern libraries are still vulnerable to RF shielding. While the RFID technology still faces challenges similar to the EAS systems, an addition of metal detector gate in the exit area will add another security layer for any materials that may be used for RF shielding. A more complex solution is to use of surveillance cameras and face recognition software, in addition to RFID gate and metal detector, which can identify repeat thieves.

Even with these security measures in place, social engineering or any other counter security techniques may still succeed to penetrate the library's security system. The difference is in the demanding resources required to penetrate the system, which will deter casual thieves. Compared to the current EAS systems, which can provide a guarantee of 80% loss reduction, the Integrated RFID Library Management System can offer at least 90% loss reduction.

In the next RFID Asia Journal, you will learn the other five reasons why you should consider Integrated RFID Library Management System in your library.

The writer is the Founder of RFID Asia - The Prominent RFID Community in Asia.

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