A pioneering digitization project was recently launched at RPTU: the introduction of RFID technology in the libraries. RFID ("radio-frequency identification") enables the wireless identification of objects - without a direct line of sight between the transponder and the reader. This is a decisive step towards more efficient processes and modern services.

The planned implementation envisages the use of commercially available RFID tags. For students, this means that library services can be used without restriction during opening hours, and items can be borrowed and returned at any time. At the same time, the libraries will benefit from optimized internal processes, for example through better retrievability of media and the possibility of batch processing.

This project is the basis for the so-called open library concept. To achieve this, all media must be equipped with RFID tags, workstations and counters must be fitted with antennas and read/write units, and security gates and self-checkouts must be installed. An open library concept will be developed in the further course of the project.

We will report on the progress of the project in due course - until then, we wish everyone involved every success with the implementation!

Project management: Dr. Heisel (University Library), Dr. Rosteck (University Library)