RFID (radio frequency identification) technology simplifies the process of loaning and returning of any documents or media in the library. At the same time, it protects the library holdings and speeds up the process of stock taking or document searching.
RFID solution consists of hardware and software components. These modules were developed with libraries in mind. A pleasing look and user-friendly operation satisfy the technological demands of every modern library.
The software secures the integration and trouble-free operation with any library information system and an easy administration. High stability and flexibility at the same time are the essential attributes of the offered RFID solution.
RFID modular solution by Bibliotheca
We offer a modern, complex solution for installing the RFID technology into libraries in cooperation with the company Bibliotheca. It combines technical, as well as programming tools. It’s a fully opened system based on international norms and standards (ISO 15693, ISO 18000-3, NCIP, SIP2 and so on). This system includes a vast amount of devices, which make the libraries’ activities more effective and the portfolio of offered models is constantly enlarging. A custom solution can be configured according to specific requirements of each particular library.
Ten commandments of the RFID technology
1. Two in one
RFID chip combines in itself both identification and a security function. It is not necessary to label the medium twice, as it was in the past. Single labeling suffices. Time and material savings are related to this simplification.
2. Make it yourself
The option of absolute automation of the self-serving process of borrowing and returning belonged in the fantasy category previously; with RFID it’s a daily reality. The library staff can now instead of an exhausting and routine work with the circular process focus on specialized services to the customers. The same number of employees can now provide more expert tasks, focus on new services and expand the time span when these are available.
3. You will not steal
The security feature of the RFID technology is on a qualitatively higher level compared to the previous methods. We can set secured / not secured with individual media, but also add an identification, that it is secured by the library. The users can walk through other RFID detection gates, like in a store, without a worry.
4. Seven in one shot
It is not a problem for the RFID to process media in bulk, e.g. to loan or return several books at the same time. Therefore, it is not necessary to talk about additional timesaving further.
5. … and we also recycle
Data recorded on the RFID chip can be rewritten. This is a major difference when comparing with older technologies, where once recorded, the data could not be rewritten later.
6. So how much do we have?
Previous nightmare of many librarians – book inventory – can now be achieved faster and more effectively. RFID inventory unit will enable to do the inventory of books without the necessity of taking the book out of the shelf; the inventory can be done by simply moving the antenna across the spine of the book. Because of making the inventory process shorter and simpler, it can be done more frequently than before and one can have a perfect overview of the books.
7. There must be order!
The inventory unit will prove its invaluable services in other ways as well – it enables to quickly find the required books, or even will announce when the books are not placed correctly.
8. Together we achieve more
Particular devices of the RFID system can be connected to the library information system, draw data from it and update records on particular media based on them. According to the capabilities of the library information system, we can talk about complete or partial RFID integration.
9. I sort, you sort, we sort…
Self-service media return can be enhanced with the installation of a sorting line, which absolutely automatically sorts the returned documents based on the required criteria. The library staff will then only have to move the appropriate cart with the returned books to the right place and shelf the books.
10. Who do I have the honor?
The same RFID technology can be used not only for media identification but also for readers’ identification; it can be used in the readers’ cards. Two technologies are not necessary, the RFID will handle it.
