What Is an RFID Smart Library System?
An RFID smart library system combines RFID identification, library hardware, self-service equipment and software workflows to support circulation, material management, security and other library operations.
Instead of treating RFID as a single reader or tag, a complete project should consider how tags, readers, self-service equipment, staff devices and the existing library management system work together.
For libraries that already have an ILS or library management platform, hardware integration is especially important. The objective may be to add RFID and self-service capabilities without unnecessarily replacing the library's existing software environment.
How RFID Works in a Library
RFID uses tags attached to library materials and readers installed in devices such as staff workstations, self-service kiosks, security systems and other equipment. When tagged materials enter the reading area, compatible equipment can identify the items and use that information in the relevant library workflow.
Unlike a workflow that requires each barcode to be positioned and scanned individually, applicable RFID equipment can identify multiple tagged materials during a supported operation. HAOHAN supports multi-item RFID reading for applicable equipment.
RFID does not necessarily eliminate barcode technology. Projects can combine RFID and barcode when the existing library environment or migration plan requires both technologies.
RFID Technology
HF vs UHF RFID for Library Projects
RFID projects should not select equipment based only on the general term "RFID." Frequency, tag compatibility, reading requirements and the intended workflow all affect equipment selection.
HF RFID
13.56 MHz
HAOHAN supports 13.56 MHz HF RFID for applicable library equipment and project configurations.
UHF RFID
840–960 MHz
HAOHAN also supports UHF RFID across the 840–960 MHz range for applicable equipment and project requirements.
The correct choice should be based on the existing tags, required reading behavior, equipment type and overall system architecture. For replacement or upgrade projects, existing tag compatibility should be checked before equipment selection.
Can Existing Third-Party RFID Tags Be Used?
In many upgrade projects, the library already has RFID-tagged collections. Replacing every tag can add unnecessary cost and implementation work, so tag compatibility should be evaluated early in the project.
HAOHAN equipment can work with compatible third-party RFID tags when the tags conform to the supported protocol and technical requirements of the applicable equipment.
Before a full deployment, the existing tags and intended hardware configuration should be tested to confirm compatibility in the customer's actual workflow.
System Architecture
Core Components of an RFID Smart Library System
A smart library project may combine several types of hardware depending on the required services and existing library infrastructure.
RFID Tags & Readers
RFID tags identify library materials, while RFID readers support circulation, inventory, self-service and other automated workflows.
Self-Service Kiosks
Self-service equipment allows patrons to complete supported borrowing and return workflows with less staff intervention.
RFID Security Gates
RFID security equipment helps libraries manage material movement and support security workflows at library entrances and exits.
Staff Workstations
RFID-enabled staff equipment supports circulation, tag processing and daily library operations.
Smart Library Cabinets
Smart cabinets extend library services into flexible self-service environments and can support different project requirements.
Software Integration
Hardware and library software can be connected through supported protocols and development interfaces for coordinated circulation workflows.
Software Integration
Connecting RFID Hardware to an Existing Library System
Hardware compatibility is only one part of an RFID project. Self-service and circulation equipment must also exchange the required information with the customer's existing library software.
HAOHAN supports several integration approaches so libraries, software providers and system integrators can select an appropriate development path for their project.
SIP2
HAOHAN supports SIP2 integration for compatible library management and self-service environments.
NCIP
NCIP is supported as an additional integration option for compatible library system workflows.
Koha
HAOHAN supports integration projects with Koha-based library environments.
API
API documentation can be provided for supported third-party software integration and project development.
Open SDK
Open SDK documentation can be provided for integrators that need to develop their own hardware-software connection.
Two Ways to Handle Software Integration
Option 1
HAOHAN-Assisted Integration
For customers that need engineering assistance, HAOHAN can provide paid technical integration services according to the software environment and project requirements.
Option 2
Integrator-Led Development
Software companies and system integrators can use available interfaces, API documentation and Open SDK documentation to develop the required connection with their own technical teams.
Testing resources or test programs can also be provided for applicable integration projects before full deployment.
RFID & Self-Service Hardware for Koha Projects
Libraries and integrators that already use Koha may not need to replace their library management platform when adding new self-service or RFID hardware.
HAOHAN supports Koha integration projects. The appropriate connection method and workflow should be confirmed according to the customer's Koha environment, required functions and selected hardware.
For projects involving existing software, testing before deployment helps confirm the complete workflow between the library system and the selected equipment.
Project Planning
How to Choose an RFID Smart Library System
Buyers should evaluate the complete project rather than compare equipment only by screen size, enclosure design or RFID reader specifications.
- Which RFID frequency and hardware configuration fit the project?
- Does the library already use RFID tags or barcode workflows?
- Which ILS or library management software is currently in use?
- Is SIP2, NCIP, API, SDK or another supported integration method required?
- Will the customer perform the integration or require technical integration support?
- Which self-service, security, staff or smart cabinet functions are required?
- Is OEM/ODM customization required for branding, enclosure, UI or language?
- What testing should be completed before full deployment?
For Software Providers & System Integrators
For software companies, hardware selection is not only about RFID performance. Access to integration interfaces, documentation, testing and customization can directly affect development cost and project delivery.
HAOHAN provides API and Open SDK documentation for applicable integration projects and supports customer-led development as well as paid technical integration services.
OEM/ODM options can also support partners that need customized branding, enclosure design, user interface or language configuration.
For Distributors & Project Suppliers
Distributors and project suppliers often need more than a single piece of equipment. Product range, integration capability, customization, spare parts and technical support all influence the long-term ability to serve local customers.
HAOHAN supports orders starting from 1 set, including OEM projects, which allows partners to begin with a sample or project-specific quantity before larger purchasing requirements.
Spare parts can be supplied separately, remote technical support is available, and HAOHAN can cooperate with qualified local engineers on equipment maintenance.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Does HAOHAN support both HF and UHF RFID?
Yes. HAOHAN supports HF RFID at 13.56 MHz and UHF RFID across the 840–960 MHz frequency range. The appropriate technology depends on the product and project requirements.
Can HAOHAN equipment read multiple RFID-tagged books?
Yes. Supported RFID equipment can perform multi-item reading, allowing multiple tagged materials to be identified during applicable workflows.
Can RFID and barcode be used in the same library project?
Yes. HAOHAN supports projects that combine RFID and barcode workflows when required by the library environment.
Can existing third-party RFID tags be used?
Compatible third-party tags can be used when they conform to the RFID protocols and technical requirements supported by the applicable equipment. Compatibility should be confirmed before deployment.
Can HAOHAN hardware connect with existing library software?
HAOHAN supports software integration through options including SIP2, NCIP, API and Open SDK. Koha integration is also supported. The exact integration approach should be confirmed according to the customer's existing system.
Can a software integrator connect HAOHAN hardware to its own software?
Yes. Customers can choose technical integration support from HAOHAN or use available interfaces, API documentation and Open SDK documentation for their own development.
Is a test environment or test program available?
Yes. Testing resources can be provided for applicable integration projects so compatibility and workflows can be evaluated before deployment.
Can the equipment be customized?
Yes. HAOHAN supports OEM/ODM customization including logo, enclosure, user interface and language customization according to project requirements.