RFID: How We Are Doing More With Less
Throughout the upcoming months, Johnson County Library will implement some technologies to dramatically increase our efficiency in providing excellent patron service. Last year our card-holders checked out 4.7 million items, an average of 13,500 items per day. Even as our budget and staffing diminished we proudly helped more patrons obtain more materials than ever before. However, this new reality dictates that we find a solution to help us process and transport thousands of items with little room for error. As a result we have obtained an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) system to manage the movement of library materials among our thirteen locations.
What is RFID?
RFID is a materials management technology that will allow the Library to track items as they are checked in, checked out, shelved and moved from place to place. Many retail outlets, corporations and libraries use RFID to manage inventory.
What does this involve?
We need to apply a special sticker, or "tag" to every circulating item in the system and install equipment to read and process them. We have already finished tagging at some Neighborhood Libraries and are moving forward with other locations through April 2012.
What will this project accomplish?
- Significant reduction in lost, misshelved or missing items
- Automatic check-in of books when they are returned
- More staff time available to help patrons on the floor
- Fewer mistakes checking in/out materials
In short, implementing RFID allows us to do more with less.
Frequently Asked Questions About RFID »
Upcoming Library Closings
Johnson County Library will close locations in order to install RFID equipment and add tags to all of the books and audiovisual materials.
During these closings patrons are encouraged to visit other library locations. Outdoor book drops will remain available for returning materials while the locations are closed.
