Making the Most of RFID in Libraries

Citation

du Preez, M. (2010), "Making the Most of RFID in Libraries", The Electronic Library, Vol. 28 No. 1, pp. 186-188. https://doi.org/10.1108/02640471011023478

Radio frequency identification (RFID) is an old technology which has the potential to revolutionise many aspects of library service delivery. RFID technology has a number of benefits but also poses challenges that derive from the many “imponderables” such as the choice of system, choice of radio frequency, choice of tag, tag deployment method, and much more.

Martin Palmer's new book Making the Most of RFID in Libraries is a practical and straightforward book designed to help library managers decide whether to adopt RFID or not. If they do, Palmer advises them on how to make the most of the benefits RFID offers but he also on addresses the challenges that are inherent in RFID technology. He outlines the main elements to be considered when choosing an RFID system.

Chapter 1 provides a general introduction to RFID and looks at the history and background of RFID technology. This is followed by a brief look at some of the everyday uses that are made of RFID such as “customer care” retail techniques. The chapter also explores the main applications of RFID in libraries.

The following chapters consider how RFID works with existing library technology and whether it works with all library stock. This discussion also addresses the issue of whether RFID merely provides an alternative method of accessing a library management system and whether libraries will need both. Chapter 4 addresses the issue of RFID standards, the production of standards and the effect standards have on the development of RFID technologies.

Some library managers are concerned about rumours that RFID can compromise individual privacy and how the technology can be used safely. Another concern is the possible health and safety risks RFID could pose both to patrons and to staff. These issues are dealt with in chapters 5 and 6.

Palmer then starts building a business case for RFID in libraries by considering the various aspects RFID could be used for, and shares ideas of how a library could pay for a RFID system. Aspects such as staffing issues, the evaluation of different RFID systems and the management of the RFID project also receive attention. A RFID case study and a futuristic look at the role of RFID in libraries conclude the book.

Making the Most of RFID in Libraries is a very worthwhile investment for all those library professionals considering converting to RFID for their libraries, as well as for those who are implementing it already. The book reads easily, has a very practical approach and is very much focused on how RFID can improve the library user's experience.