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For a long time, people have seen libraries as places where technology is least required, and others have argued that libraries are no longer beneficial. All these views are changing as libraries continue to remain relevant to society by acknowledging the need for technology. One of the areas where libraries are investing a lot is in self-service systems to improve efficiency, reduce operation cost and also improve patrons experience and satisfaction when using library services.
If you have not visited a library recently, try visiting modern libraries and check what technology has changed over the years. Some of the current self-service technology trends in libraries include RFID systems, mobile apps and Hybrid systems.
RFID systems for libraries
RFID systems are of huge benefit to libraries that focus on increasing their availability hours. The technology has enabled libraries to move from over-reliance on employees to serve users to a self-service set-up. Some of the benefits of the RFID systems such as check-out systems are less library operation costs and fewer waiting lines. Library users in such libraries can check-out their items or return items without the need to wait for assistance.
Mobile apps
Every company has its mobile app to help in reaching out to customers and also get feedback and libraries are also not behind in this. People spend a lot of time with their phones and libraries can take advantage of that to extend their services beyond their physical walls. The apps can also help library users when inside the library through library catalogues and guides to reduce the staff workload.
EM/RFID self service hybrid systems
The hybrid systems the logistics part and the security aspect to improve the efficiency of library self-service systems. A library can use the hybrid systems to identify patron cards thorough EM technology and deactivating the tags after the successful registration using an RFID book tag. Such simple inventory handling improves accuracy and efficiency and also makes libraries user-friendly.
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