Application of RFID Technology in Corporate Libraries

RFID – Radio Frequency Identification – technology is not new; in fact, it was first used in World War II to track allied aircrafts. However, this technology has been vastly improved since the ‘40s and it has many applications in today’s world. In libraries, RFID is an alternative to standard barcoding tags and has many added functions, including the charging and discharging of library materials, easily searching for and locating items, and inventorying materials. RFID labels are adhered to an item and are then able to be “read” by corresponding tag readers which communicate with a designated server. RFID is highly reliable, fairly inexpensive to maintain, and needs to be replaced less often than typical library barcodes.

This technology is especially applicable in corporate libraries. Because corporate libraries often employ only one or two librarians, automation of certain functions, like location and check out of materials, is imperative to ensure a functional and successful library. The technology employed in a corporate library can make the difference between chaos and total organization. It also results in fewer incidents of lost materials and saves time, which, in business, is directly related to money.

Case studies of RFID technology and a supplemental literature review will demonstrate that the investment in an RFID system is a smart, business-conscious decision that will improve the overall functionality of a corporate library.