RFID and Libraries: Home
Radio frequency identification and how it is used and discussed in libraries.
Radio Frequency Identification, or RFID, is "a generic term for technologies that use radio waves to automatically identify individual items (source)." RFID has been evolving into a more effective, convenient, and cost-efficient technology since World War II. American companies, especially those in the automotive, packaging and handling, and retail industries, began to integrate RFID technology into the structure of their businesses in the late 1990s. In 2000, several libraries around the world announced their intent to integrate RFID technology into their library systems, pioneering its use for contemporary library functions.
This resource guide provides links to RFID resources from the ALA, and to the NISO RP-6-2012 report RFID in U.S. Libraries, as well as a selected bibliography of ALA publications and other online resources.
ALA Resources on RFID
- Resolution on Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Technology and Privacy PrinciplesAt the 2005 ALA Midwinter Meeting, the ALA Council adopted this resolution.
- RFID: Considerations for Implementation - ALCTS WebinarOriginally presented on Wednesday, August 27, 2014 (free)
While much has been published on how RFID technology works and its uses for libraries, there has been limited public discussion of factors that should be considered in deciding whether to move forward with implementation or the specifics of planning and decision-making involved should a library decide to implement. This webinar will inform and equip librarians to handle this still relatively new territory. Presenter will give a brief overview of the history, the technology, and library uses of RFID and factors to consider including financial, time, technical, consortium/community, and educational considerations. - RFID in Libraries: Privacy and Confidentiality Guidelines(last updated in 2007) Because RFID tags may be read by unauthorized individuals using tag readers, there are concerns that the improper implementation of RFID technology will compromise users' privacy in the library. Researchers have identified serious general concerns about the privacy implications of RFID use, and particular privacy concerns about RFID use in libraries. Libraries implementing RFID should use and configure the technology to maintain the privacy of library users.
NISO RP-6-2012, RFID in U.S. Libraries
Provides recommendations for implementing RFID in U.S. libraries in a manner that will promote interoperability. It includes a recommended Data Model and discussions of security, tag migration, the book supply chain, privacy, and vandalism. It serves as a U.S. profile to the three-part international standard ISO 28560, RFID in Libraries.
