UNLV Libraries & RFID

1. UNLV Libraries & RFID • October 1998: 3M introduces RFID to 3M Library Advisory Council • June 1999: CML begins tagging its collection • October 1999: Discussions begin on concept of DLA • July 2000: Work begins on tagging main library collection • January 2001: Lied Library opens

2. Applications & Benefits • Self Service • Deselection & Relocation • Stacks Maintenance • Database Maintenance • Staff Efficiency & Ergonomics • Collection Security

3. Self Service Library users can more easily check out materials without staff interaction and usually without waiting in lines

4. Deselection & Relocation 60,000 + items have been withdrawn or relocated to storage utilizing specific criteria on the DLA. Also, new converters now have the ability to “weed as they tag.”

5. Stacks Maintenance • DLA can collect inventory data in the background while performing other tasks such as shelfreading • Entire collection is now shelfread a minimum of twice per year—a difference that translates into increased patron satisfaction

6. Database Maintenance Example of an Excel spreadsheet containing data on “problems” found by the DLA during shelf reading

7. Staff Efficiency & Ergonomics • RFID allows staff to perform tasks such as checking items in and out—as well as shelfreading and inventory—more quickly • The associated tools (staff workstation and DLA) allow staff to perform these tasks more comfortably and without physical strain

8. Collection Security • Combination of RFID/security strip may be the best way to go • “One tag” option now available for security • Some vendors offer security gates that can capture data on what leaves the library

9. RFID & The Future • Patron use patterns and implications for space usage and collection development • Automated book drop/sorting stations • NISO group to focus on interoperability of tags and hardware across vendors