What Is Smart Library Automation?
Smart library automation is not simply the installation of an RFID reader or a self-check kiosk. A complete system connects library software, identification technology and physical equipment into coordinated service workflows.
For many libraries, the existing ILS or library management platform already contains patron, circulation and collection information. New hardware must therefore work with that environment rather than operate as an isolated device.
This makes integration one of the most important parts of a library automation project. Hardware selection, communication protocols, RFID compatibility and testing should all be considered before deployment.
System Architecture
The Four Layers of a Smart Library Automation System
A practical automation project can be understood as four connected layers.
Layer 1
Library Management System
The existing ILS or library management platform remains the core system for patron, circulation and collection information.
Layer 2
Integration Layer
Protocols and interfaces such as SIP2, NCIP, API and Open SDK connect supported hardware with library software.
Layer 3
Self-Service Hardware
Self-check kiosks, staff workstations, security gates, smart cabinets and other devices perform physical service workflows.
Layer 4
RFID & Barcode
Identification technologies support material recognition, circulation, security and automated library operations.
Can Automation Be Added Without Replacing the Existing ILS?
In many projects, yes. A library may already have a functioning ILS or library management system and simply need new RFID, self-service or smart library hardware.
In this situation, the project should first determine how the existing software can communicate with the new equipment. The required connection may use SIP2, NCIP, API, SDK or another supported integration approach.
The final solution should be tested using the customer's actual software environment and required workflows before full-scale deployment.
Integration Options
Connecting Library Software and Self-Service Hardware
HAOHAN supports several integration methods for libraries, software companies and system integrators.
SIP2
Supported for compatible self-service and library management system integration projects.
NCIP
Available as an additional integration option for compatible library system workflows.
Koha
HAOHAN supports integration projects for libraries and integrators using Koha.
API
API documentation can be provided for supported third-party development and software integration.
Open SDK
Open SDK documentation can be provided to software companies and system integrators for their own development.
Two Integration Routes for Project Partners
Route A
HAOHAN-Assisted Integration
Customers that need technical assistance can use paid HAOHAN integration services. The integration scope is evaluated according to the existing software, selected equipment and required workflows.
Route B
Customer-Led Integration
Software providers and system integrators can use available interfaces, API documentation and Open SDK documentation to perform their own integration.
Testing environments or test programs can be provided for applicable projects so communication and workflows can be checked before deployment.
Smart Library Automation With Koha
Libraries using Koha may want to add self-service kiosks, RFID equipment or other automation hardware while keeping their existing Koha environment.
HAOHAN supports Koha integration projects. The specific connection method should be selected according to the customer's system configuration, required circulation functions and selected equipment.
Compatibility and workflow testing should be completed before final deployment, especially when an existing system has custom configurations or project-specific requirements.
Automated Workflows
Common Smart Library Automation Workflows
Self Checkout
A patron identifies themselves and library materials at a self-service station. The equipment exchanges the required circulation information with the connected library system.
Self-Service Return
Returned materials can be identified by RFID or barcode and processed through the supported software workflow.
Staff Operations
Library staff can use RFID-enabled workstations for applicable circulation, tag handling and material processing tasks.
Security Management
RFID security equipment can support material movement and security workflows as part of the broader library system.
Smart Cabinet Services
Smart library cabinets can extend self-service access into additional locations and service scenarios.
Multi-Item RFID Reading
Applicable RFID equipment can identify multiple tagged materials within a supported reading workflow.
RFID and Barcode Can Work Together
Library automation does not always require an immediate transition to RFID-only workflows. Existing barcode processes may remain important during migration or in specific service areas.
HAOHAN supports projects that use RFID and barcode together, allowing the system architecture to reflect the library's existing collection and operational requirements.
HF RFID
13.56 MHz
Supported for applicable HAOHAN library RFID equipment and project configurations.
UHF RFID
840–960 MHz
Supported for applicable UHF equipment and project requirements.
Existing RFID Tags and Upgrade Projects
A library that already has RFID-tagged materials should check tag compatibility before replacing readers or self-service equipment.
HAOHAN equipment can work with compatible third-party RFID tags when those tags conform to the supported protocol and technical requirements of the selected equipment.
Testing existing tags with the proposed hardware before deployment can reduce migration risk and help avoid unnecessary retagging work.
Planning Checklist
Questions to Answer Before an Automation Project
Before selecting hardware, the library or integrator should define both the technical environment and the required service workflows.
- Which ILS or library management system is currently in use?
- Does the current system support SIP2, NCIP or another required interface?
- Will the customer use HAOHAN-assisted integration or perform its own development?
- Which self-service and RFID workflows are required?
- Does the library already use RFID tags, barcode or both?
- Are existing third-party RFID tags expected to remain in use?
- Which products and hardware configurations are required?
- Does the project need OEM branding, enclosure, UI or language customization?
- What compatibility testing should be completed before deployment?
Why Integration Matters to Software Providers
Software companies and system integrators usually need hardware that can fit into an existing software architecture rather than force the customer to adopt an entirely new platform.
For this reason, access to APIs, SDK documentation, test tools and technical cooperation can be just as important as the hardware specification itself.
HAOHAN supports both customer-led development and paid technical integration services, allowing partners to select the model that matches their technical resources and project scope.
Automation Projects for Distributors and OEM Partners
Distributors and project suppliers often need equipment that can be adapted to local software, branding and language requirements.
HAOHAN supports OEM/ODM customization including logo, enclosure, user interface and language customization. OEM orders can start from 1 set.
Spare parts are available separately, remote technical support is provided, and HAOHAN can cooperate with qualified local engineers on maintenance and troubleshooting.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Does smart library automation require replacing the existing ILS?
Not necessarily. Many projects focus on connecting new self-service and RFID hardware with an existing library management environment. The integration method depends on the customer's current system and required workflows.
Does HAOHAN support SIP2 and NCIP?
Yes. HAOHAN supports SIP2 and NCIP for applicable library integration projects.
Can HAOHAN hardware integrate with Koha?
Yes. HAOHAN supports Koha integration projects. The required workflow and connection method should be confirmed according to the customer's Koha environment.
Can a customer use its own software with HAOHAN hardware?
Yes. Customers can choose paid HAOHAN technical integration support or use available interfaces, API documentation and Open SDK documentation for their own development.
Can a test environment or test program be provided?
Yes. Testing resources can be provided for applicable integration projects before full deployment.
Does HAOHAN support both RFID and barcode workflows?
Yes. RFID and barcode can be used together when required by the library project.
Can the equipment be customized for international projects?
Yes. HAOHAN supports OEM/ODM customization including logo, enclosure, user interface and language customization.
What support is available after deployment?
HAOHAN provides one year of hardware support and one year of software support. After the included software support period, customers can renew support or maintain the software themselves. Remote technical support and separately supplied spare parts are also available.