Making the Most of RFID in Libraries

Citation

Dobreva, M. (2010), "Making the Most of RFID in Libraries", Library Review, Vol. 59 No. 4, pp. 310-311. https://doi.org/10.1108/00242531011038640

Self‐service, security and stock control are three serious issues faced by libraries with an extensive number of holdings and/or users. The technology which shows great promise to address and resolve these three issues – Radio Frequency ID (RFID) – is understandably becoming a focus for library managers.

To meet this interest, the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP) in the UK organises an annual conference on RFID, the first of which took place in 2005. For all library professionals who seek a gentle introduction to the topic, combining the presentation of the technology with a sound understanding of the typical library sector issues, the book Making the Most of RFID in Libraries by Martin Palmer would make an excellent choice. It helps to identify and explain the characteristics of the radio frequency tags and scanners that need to be considered within the modern library setting and depending on the aim(s) of the institution, what the introduction of this technology should help to achieve. A strength of this book is that it highlights the relationship between RFID and library management systems (LMS).

The opening chapters introduce the technology succinctly, yet clearly, explaining the principles of RFID technology and then contextualising its use within the library environment. Problem areas such as multipart items, or audiovisual materials containing metal components, which do not communicate well with the scanners, are addressed.

The book then introduces the current standards and interoperability issues as RFID in the library sector has been applied primarily using proprietary solutions. Issues of privacy are also tackled and the key recommendation made is not to store any personal information on the radio tags and to guarantee the security of personal data in the LMS. The author then addresses in more depth the specifics of RFID applications in libraries, including the development of a business case, the implications on staffing, the comparison of suppliers and how to evaluate offers, as well as considering matters which need to be considered at installation and deployment.

The book does not address what the environmental impact of using this technology within the modern information environment; this aspect is definitely a positive driver since RFID is seen outside of the library sector as a contributor to a more environmentally friendly technological setting.

The Essex County Council real‐life case study is an excellent choice which the author knows “from inside”. It aimed to modernise the library service, combining affordability and ease of implementation. In the current economic climate, this case is definitely useful as libraries turn to modern solutions which are deemed feasible in terms of value and implications for staff.

The author of the book, Martin Palmer, is Principal Officer for Essex County Council's Libraries, where he has worked in various roles for over 30 years. He is a Chair of the joint Book Industry Communication (BIC)/CILIP RFID in Libraries Group. His book is very helpful for library professionals since it is not only about the technology but about the technology in the current library context. The publication holds most relevance for library managers considering the use of RFID, as well as library professionals who are implementing or deploying RFID in their institutions.