Over 100,000 books managed by RFID: Stocktaking time reduced from 3 weeks to 3 hours
Challenges
- The library has over 100,000 books
- Staff used barcodes and scanned every book one by one during stocktaking
- The full stocktake took about three weeks and affected normal library services
- The library wanted a faster way to manage books, improve security, and reduce manual work
SOLUTION
RFID Book Tags and Handheld Reader
- RFID tags were added to around 100,000 books and library materials, giving each item a unique ID. With a handheld RFID reader, staff can scan multiple books quickly, making stocktaking and shelf checking easier
RFID Return Box：
- An RFID return box was installed in a suitable library location. Users can return books by placing them in the box, and the system automatically identifies the books and completes the return process. This reduces workload at the service desk and gives users more flexible return times.
Overhead RFID Antenna：
- An overhead RFID Antenna was installed at the main entrance and exit. It monitors library materials moving in and out in real time. If an item leaves the library without being properly checked out, the system will send an alert to help prevent loss or accidental removal of books.
Results
- Annual stocktaking time was greatly reduced from around three weeks to only three hours, improving stocktaking efficiency by over 90%
- The library no longer needs to close for a long time for major stocktaking. This reduces the impact on users, keeps library operations more stable, and allows staff to spend more time on book selection and academic support
- The RFID system improves collection accuracy and shelf order. Staff can more easily check the location and status of library materials, while users can find the books they need more quickly through the library catalogue
- The overhead RFID security system improves monitoring of library materials entering and leaving the library. It helps reduce the risk of lost items and supports the strict management standards needed by a research library
