RFID in Libraries-Introduction to the Issues: An Emerging Trend

Abstract

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is the technology that is slated to replace barcodes in I i bray applications. It is a form of identification that is contact-I ess and does not require I ine of sight. The technology, though new to libraries, has been in use in other sectors for more than 2 decades. The RFID tags are placed in books and generally covered with a property sticker. Antennas of different sizes, based on application, are used to read the tags and manage the various library functions. The RFID Solution is a revolutionary application of automatic identification and data capture (AIDC) technology. In a library environment, RFID technology resembles a traditional barcode system in that it provides a means of assigning an ID to an item and reading that ID to perform circulation transactions or to take inventory.