RFID technology has proved to be a very popular way of reducing workload on the circulation desk by allowing the public to borrow and return their own items. However, gaining much more real benefit from that investment has often proved elusive, as solutions available have been mostly proprietary and difficult to integrate with each other.
That is all about to change as the decision by providers to adopt a single common standard changes will enable new buyers the freedom to pick and choose the RFID devices they prefer.
New ideas for exploiting RFID-enabled stock will be on view in the conference’s demonstration area where leading suppliers will display their latest offerings, and the options and opportunities will also be discussed with delegates in the conference sessions. Using RFID to take the library into the community will be just one of the many areas under review.
But what of those that have already invested? Will they be able to take advantage of the changes too? Would migration to a tag standard be worthwhile – or even possible? Find out from industry experts on the platform, and from suppliers in the exhibition.
But RFID isn’t just about the tags – or even about the items. Smartcards and smartphones now use similar means to deliver new functions and services for libraries – from authentication systems to regulate admissions to guidance systems for finding your way around the collection. This year we’re redefining the traditional library view of RFID just a little bit.
Smart cards and smart phones are just two of the new areas we will be exploring. With some serious activity ongoing in the sometimes grey area between management systems and RFID applications we will also be taking stock of progress in the development of new protocols for integration – like SIP 3.0, NCIP and our own BIC interoperability framework.
This is a rapidly changing landscape so the programme will be under constant review to ensure that we deliver the most appropriate agenda on the day. Make sure you’re on top of the technology and not the other way around!
This year’s programme is once again being developed by Mick Fortune of Library RFID. He will focus on developments in interoperability and standards as well as including Case Studies and parallel sessions on current hot issues.
Last year’s conference programme featured 14 speakers and included parallel discussion sessions and a lunchtime Meet the Experts RFID clinic. The BIC/CILIP RFID Innovation Award was presented at the event for the third year running, and the 2010 winner was Trafford Metropolitan Borough Council.
The conference will once again be supported by the BIC/CILIP RFID in Libraries Group. A wide range of sponsorship options are available, and CILIP Update will provide media support.
What delegates said about RFID 2010
• "Spot on and as always leading edge"
• "Just excellent!"
• "Great varied programme, content was excellent"
• "Very useful and informative for an RFID novice"
• "Good mix of speakers and parallel sessions"
• "Very enjoyable day"