RFID = More efficient libraries???

What is RFID? RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification. Read on...

As explained on the Frequently Asked Questions page of the web site for the RFID Journal , Radio Frequency Identification, or RFID, is "a generic term for technologies that use radio waves to automatically identify individual items." RFID has been evolving into a more effective, convenient, and cost-efficient technology since World War II. American companies, especially those in the automotive, packaging and handling, and retail industries, began to integrate RFID technology into the structure of their businesses in the late 1990s. In 2000, several libraries around the world announced their intent to integrate RFID technology into their library systems, pioneering its use for contemporary library functions, including the University of Nevada, Las Vegas Lied Library; the National University of Singapore Library; the New Hanover County Public Library of Wilmington, North Carolina; and the Santa Clara City Library of Santa Clara, California.

The theory here is that RDIF technology will benefit libraries in a number of ways.

*Libraries are moving to RFID systems in place of (or sometimes supplemental to) their bar code systems because of the streamlined workflows that become possible. Some have found that inventory-related tasks can be done in a fraction of the time with RFID. Many use inventory wands are used to locate lost books and to find misshelved or missing items.

*RFID-based circulation systems can process many more books in a shorter period of time with little or no staff intervention. Self-check systems have become very popular with both patrons and staff, and RFID self-check systems allow patrons to check-in or check-out several books at a time. RFID-enabled self-check systems reduce the number of staff needed at the circulation desk. Because the readers do not require line-of-site, multiple items can be read simultaneously by passing a stack of books near the reader. Some say that the RFID self-check systems are easier to use than their optically-based counterparts, making it easer for patrons to serve themselves.

*For archivists handling sensitive materials, the ability to inventory items without handling them is another benefit of RFID.

*And while it has net yet been proven, some librarians believe RFID systems will reduce repetitive stress injuries associated with checking out books using barcode systems.

Of course some say the use of RFID technology in libraries could result in a problem that possibly outweighs the benefits...

"One snag facing RFID, however, is that consumer advocates are in an uproar. They say the unchecked spread of the devices in libraries and elsewhere could spell disaster for privacy. They envision a future in which a network of hidden RFID readers track consumers' every move, their belongings and their reading habits, though most agree that such a scenario is largely impossible today for technical reasons." Lorie Gilbert, CNet News.

I guess only time will tell. Until next time...

Matt Marshall