Seven Important Questions about Library Self Service RFID Kiosk

Library Self Service RFID Checkout kiosk is an easy way to skip the line, unlock your items, if need be and get on your way. The new system will easily scan multiple items at once and allow for credit and debit card payment of fees and fines. Library Self-service FRID kiosks have many benefits, but arguably the biggest is freeing up employees to have higher-value interactions with customers.In fact, you could say that library self-service goes hand in hand with progressive service.Many people go to libraries to get valuable advice from professionals they trust, whether on digital inclusion, literacy, health information or a range of other topics.Self-service improves the availability of staff who provide this support, while providing a convenient, modern experience for those who just want to print a document or return a book.

1. What is RFID?

RFID stands for radio frequency identification.RFID tags have been added to library projects.Instead of scanning individual barcodes, these tags allow a stack of materials to be examined, resulting in a faster library books self checkout experience. RFID tags are inexpensive microchips (usually in the form of tags) that respond to radio frequency signals requesting information.In most cases, these chips are powered by the wireless signals themselves, so they do not require batteries (and can therefore be made very small (paper-thin) and durable).A typical (passive)RFID scan can only work within a few inches, so this is one of the reasons why books/items must be very close to the scanner.

2. Is RFID a new technology in libraries?

No, RFID has been successfully used in libraries worldwide for more than 20 years. It is popular all over the world these recent years.

3. What is so great about RFID?

With RFID technology, library materials will be able to pass through the library system faster, from bookshelves to checkout. Most library users need to check out several books at a time.Currently, each item must be scanned individually at checkout, but if with RFID, several items can be scanned at once.

RFID will also improve staff workflow and let the staff have more ability to provide meaningful service to the patrons instead of spending so much time checking material in and out! Panzhong Library self service RFID kiosk provide very good user experiences with a large touch screen.

4. Will I be able to check my account and pay any fines or fees at the library self checkout kiosk?

Yes, sure. You can check your account status, pay fines or fees and renew items. The countertop stations accept credit or debit payments and the kiosks accept cash, debit, credit, and digital payment options such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, Wechat Pay and Alipay.

5. How is my privacy protected when RFID tags are used to identify library materials?

The library’s RFID tags will carry only unique numerical identifiers. No title, author, publisher information, patron name or use pattern can be found by reading an RFID tag placed in EPL library materials.

6. Any examples of other uses of RFID technology?

Yes we list some as the below：

A) Chips embedded in debit/credit cards for wireless 'tap and go' type payments.

B)Chips embedded in passports to provide enhanced security and identity information to border officials.

C) Chips embedded in consumer products that set off an alarm if not deactivated before crossing a barrier.

D) Chips embedded in employee ID cards or hotel key cards for 'tap and enter' door access control systems.

E) Package and inventory tracking.

7. How to use Library Self Checkout Kiosk step by step?

A) Scan your library card underneath the touchscreen.

B) Type in your PIN using the onscreen keyboard ( if you haven’t set password, you can skip this step)

C) Follow the instructions on the screen.

Click  "books checkout" → put the reader's card in the reader's card pad→ put the books in the RFID pad under the display screen → check the number of books → choose whether to print receipt → complete.

Click  "renew books" → put the reader's card in the reader's card pad→ put the books in the RFID pad under the display screen → check the number of books → choose whether to print receipt → complete.

Click "return books" → put the books in the RFID pad under the display screen → check the number of books → check if any overdue, if yes→ pay the fines (if NO →complete.)

Summary:

Panzhong Library self service RFID kiosk is a compact, flexible and affordable component system that integrates with your existing library structure and is compatible with most Library Management Software systems. It's an excellent option for schools, colleges, academic and healthcare libraries wanting to save staff time, increase library throughput, or provide a means to issue or re-issue items when staff are not available.

Panzhong Library Self Checkout Kiosk is very easy to use — simply scan your card (or log on with the same details you use to log on to library computers) and select the options to issue or renew books, and then follow the steps. Returning books does not require a login or card: simply select ‘return’ and follow the prompts. There is an option to print a receipt with the due date of borrowed or renewed books, or to prove that you’ve returned items successfully. There are instructions displayed in a poster beside the machine, but please don’t hesitate to contact library staff if you need any help when using the kiosk.