Libraries have been critical access to information for many. The time and human resource cost to monitor book check-ins and outs have always been exorbitantly high, and even more so in larger libraries, with thousands of titles. Using a more traditional observational system is an upgrade from a manual record by patron and by book, but it still requires a manual count by either the user or the librarian. This was limiting for not only service during peak periods but there was the added potential for human inconsistencies in serving each patron. Fortunately, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology will allow libraries to better manage library collections and patron requests.

An RFID tag is a microchip with an antenna that sends and receives data between the RFID tag and a reading device. An RFID tag can hold and transfer a unique identifier associated with an item in a library’s collection. An RFID tag sends data to the system and receives data from the system quickly, without direct contact, reliably, and accurately. This makes RFID an effective tool for managing library transactions.

RFID technology completely erases any bottleneck by turning the book's check-in and check-out into a seamless transaction for the user experience. So, the transition from a manual system to RFID reflects not only more operational efficiency but also user satisfaction and a chance to use the transition as a future benchmark for libraries.

 How RFID Transforms Check-In and Checkout 

• Quick Checkouts

In an RFID-based library, users don't scan items one by one. Instead, they simply take a self-service kiosk or use an RFID reader that is staff-assisted and place a stack of books on the reader where checkout can occur in a matter of seconds. The RFID reader captures all the RFID tags at once and communicates with the library's database, and can also provide users with e-mail receipts and reminders if this option is enabled.

This saves user time as well as reduces line-ups for users, especially during high-demand events (beginning of a semester, weekends), and library staff will be able to focus on helping users in between checkout, rather than checking out each item individually.

• Smart and Secure Book Returns

RFID also makes it possible to alter the process of returning books. RFID-enabled drop boxes can scan books the moment they are dropped in. The moment a book goes into the box, its RFID tag is recognized, and the system designates it as "returned" within the library software.

This obviates the need for return processing by hand and significantly reduces the errors that come with not stamping books as required, which frequently result in fines and user dissatisfaction. With missing or tampered-with RFID tags, the system can optionally mark the tag as missing and notify library staff.

The whole process of return is more transparent, secure, and reliable—gaining user confidence in the operations of the library.

• Simultaneous Multiple Item Processing

One of the greatest strengths of RFID over barcodes is that it can read multiple items simultaneously. A patron who is bringing back ten books can do so in one motion—no scanning each book separately. Librarians, too, can use portable RFID readers to quickly scan shelves or trolleys full of books.

This significantly reduces the time required for check-in and checkout processing, releasing staff to engage in higher-value activities like research assistance or computer literacy instruction.

Above Speed: Additional Value of RFID

RFID tags not only speed check-ins and checkouts but also introduce layers of intelligence and security. Systems are able to monitor when and where books are taken out, have real-time inventory, and detect unusual activity such as attempted theft or unissued book removal through smart gates at the entrance of the library.

For library managers, RFID data gives intelligence about user behavior, most-in-demand titles, and inventory levels. This enables more informed procurement, precision marketing, and space savings.

Poxo: Facilitating Smarter Library Experiences

Although the RFID technology itself is compelling, its success is a function of the quality of the implementation. That is where Poxo enters.

Poxo is the leading provider of RFID automation solutions in libraries. They facilitate a complete ecosystem of RFID automation solutions, including self-check-in/out kiosks, intelligent drop boxes, anti-theft gates, and handheld readers, that will ease your library's transition to RFID at every touchpoint.

Their solutions are intuitive, extremely secure, and scalable—perfect for small community libraries or large universities.. What makes Poxo unique is its commitment to enhancing user and employee experiences not only through deploying technology but designing with intention and providing continuous support.

If your library wants to lower wait times, eliminate human errors, and provide an experience with a genuinely modern borrowing environment, Poxo's RFID solutions are the ideal base to build on.