Enhance the productivity and security benefits of RFID by utilizing industry leading 3M ISO RFID 50x50mm Tag and 49x81mm Tags. A library can also imprint the library RFID tag with its logo and make them appear to be bookplates, or it can put a printed cover label over each tag. While the short-range readers used for circulation charge and discharge and inventorying appear to read the tags 100 percent of the time, the performance of the exit sensors is more problematic. The author knows of no library that has done a before and after inventory to determine the loss rate when RFID is used for security.
Lacking data, one can only conjecture that the performance of exist sensors is better when the antennae on the tags are larger. That perception is based on two misconceptions: (1) that the tags contain patron information and ; (2) that they can be read after someone has taken the materials to home or office. The vast majority of the tags installed in library materials contain only the item ID, usually the same number that previously has been stored on a barcode. The link between borrower and the borrowed material is maintained in the circulation module of the automated library system, and is broken when the material is returned.
It is, therefore, not possible for someone to read tags from the street or an office building hallway. It is, therefore, important to educate library staff and patrons about the RFID technology used in libraries before implementing a program. It would be impractical to affix tags of that size and cost to library materials. Several states are considering legislation that would pose restrictions on the use of RFID by retailers and libraries. It is, therefore, important to monitor legislative activity and to be prepared to inform legislators about the differences between retail and library applications. A few libraries have placed RFID tags on staff and patron identification cards.
A comprehensive RFID system has three components: (1) library RFID tag that are electronically programmed with unique information; (2) readers or sensors to interrogate the tags; and (3) a server or docking station on which the software that interfaces with the automated library system is loaded. Some argue that it is a better choice for than HF because UHF RFID tags are more universal.
Not only does that identify patrons for charging and discharging of library materials, but also for access to restricted areas or services. Tagging materials-A library planning on doing its own tagging should consider using volunteers in addition to its regular staff. While there is little choice with regard to the placement of tags on CD/DVDs and videotapes, there are many options for tagging books. Other vendors and several librarians who are using RFID say that they have not encountered problems.
