Library RFID systems: Designing general-purpose systems based on the international standards

Abstract

The author analyzes the current status of RFID standards as related to library technologies. Main features and distinctions of the standards designed by the two international organizations: ISO/IEC JTC 1and EPCglobal. RFID standardization is to make the technology applicable to various fields. The prospects for further RFID development towards global control systems, among them integrated library systems through consolidating local systems and harmonizing standards for different frequency equipment, are analyzed. The standard approach towards RFID technology application in libraries is discussed. The author also examines prospects for designing RFID dual-frequency library systems for HF and UHF tags based on the effective international standards. He also emphasizes that introduction of these systems is hindered by the lack of equipment with relevant features - tags and readers, and by manufacturers unwillingness to invest in production due to the absence of market outlets.