North Bengal University (NBU) Library is a state-of-the-art facility equipped with the latest modern technologies and resources. The library serves as a vital source of information for the academic community, and its efficient functioning is critical to ensuring the smooth flow of information and data. One of the latest additions to NBU Library's technological arsenal is RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology. One of the major advantages is the automated check-in/check-out process, which allows users to easily issue or return books without the need for library staff intervention. This not only saves time but also reduces the workload of library staff, who can focus on other important tasks.
This technology has revolutionized the library's operations and has proven to be highly beneficial for users in terms of security, access control, and holding management.
RFID technology has been applied to various areas of the library, including automated check-in/check-out, theft detection, stock verification, shelf rectification, and many more. The implementation of RFID technology has made it possible for users to easily find and request books using the kiosk system's self-issue, return, and renewal services. The RFID system has been successfully integrated with the SOUL3 software (LMS) and is compatible with international standards/protocols such as NCIP.
To ensure maximum security, every book in the library has been tagged with an RFID tag containing a pre-programmed microchip with identification and security data. Teachers, researchers, and students are all highly satisfied with the system's functionality, and it has proven to be a valuable tool for increasing efficiency and improving safety, security, productivity, accuracy, and convenience.
The RFID system has several key terms that users should be aware of. Book tagging involves assigning a unique serial number to each book and mapping it to a corresponding tag ID in the database. Library members are assigned unique member IDs in the form of RFID cards that are mapped to their member IDs in the database. Book issue/return involves scanning the member card and the books using the desktop RFID reader attached to the system. Self-check-in/check-out allows members to issue or return books independently using their member card and scanning the books. Book drop enables members to return books by simply dropping them in the book drop box, where the RFID reader automatically marks them as returned. Anti-theft control involves installing a long-range RFID reader at the exit gate that reads all the books passing through the gate and generates an audible alarm if any book read is not marked as issued in the system. Finding a book involves inputting the book's ID into a portable RFID reader and moving it near the book racks. Physical verification involves using a handheld portable RFID reader to take the physical inventory of the books without removing them from the racks.
The implementation of RFID technology has greatly improved the functioning of the North Bengal University Library. The library's extensive collection of over 2 lakh books can now be easily managed and accessed by teachers, researchers, and students using the latest technological tools. The RFID system's successful integration with the SOUL3 software (LMS) and its compatibility with international standards/protocols make it a valuable addition to the academic library. The system's foolproof security, access control, and proper holding management ensure the efficient flow of information and data to the academic community, making NBU Library one of the most well-equipped libraries in the region.