KANSAS CITY, Kan. – Kansas City, Kansas Public library will soon implement RFID technology at all library branches and the mobile library. This new technology will improve many aspects of the library’s service.
It will create a new patron experience that allows for faster and easier checkout of items. It will also allow staff to more easily inventory and manage the collection so they are better able to meet the information and entertainment needs of the community.
Since staff will no longer have to spend a large portion of time managing the checkout of items, it will allow them more time to offer their skills and knowledge towards beneficial programs and services both in the library branches and in the community.
RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification. It is a technology that uses radio waves to automatically identify certain items. RFID is frequently used for a variety of purposes including store inventory, employee ID badges, pet ID tags, and much more.
In libraries, the RFID tag replaces the current barcode system. Each library item receives a unique tag that allows staff to find, organize, and track the item. It will also allow patrons to check out items on their own, using RFID machines that can easily read multiple items at one time.
Implementing RFID technology will require library branches to be closed for up to one week to tag all items with RFID tags and install the new RFID machines. KCKPL will close one branch at a time starting in April and May.
Patrons may still use the book drops and other library branches during this time. Updates on the closing schedule and more information regarding the use of RFID can be found on the library’s website at kckpl.org.
