RFID Tagging for Libraries: Sample RFID Tagging Checklist

This is the third and final post in a series that outlines RFID tagging best practices. Check out the other posts in this series if you’re looking for an overview of RFID tag types, programming, and placement or you want more insight about common RFID project management considerations.

Here, we'll provide a high-level overview of what you should think about before, during, and after your library's RFID conversion.

First things first! You'll want to designate a manager to oversee your RFID conversion. The manager should be computer literate; detail oriented; and comfortable adjusting processes. If a member of your staff is serving as project manager for your RFID conversion, make sure that person is relieved from some other job responsibilities to focus on the project.

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Before RFID Tagging Begins

• Calculate the number and type of tags needed, plus a one-year supply for new materials and order the tags.

• Start tagging new materials through a pre-processor (B&T, Brodart, Ingram, Midwest) or in Technical Services.

• Set up the order of tagging branches and approximate schedule.

• If feasible, set up tagging of some collections on closed days or closed hours.

• Set up staffing for the project—and address hiring as applicable.

• Determine equipment needs and buy/lease tagging stations.

• Load tagging software onto staff stations.

• Document tagging standards (e.g. where tags will be placed in which types of materials).

• Decide and document how to facilitate the tagging of special cases (e.g. foil-bound, multidisk sets, kits, magazines).

• Decide if weeding or inventory will be done during tagging, and plan accordingly.

• Hire and train tagging personnel with tagging quotas understood.

• Decide how returned materials will be handled and tagged before re-shelving.

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During RFID Tagging

• Spot check tags to ensure readability and security reset during checkout or check-in.

• Decide how AV will be handled—at or away from the shelves.

• Adjust tagging workflow, insist on breaks, and rotate staff job assignments frequently.

• Track and display what sections have been tagged to prevent inadvertent re-shelving.

• Problem-solve and adjust accordingly during the tagging process.

• Spot-check teams to insure the most efficient handling in order to reach tagging quotas.

• Plan enough tagging personnel to tag returned materials for re-shelving.

• Celebrate completion of sections, branches, and the end of at-shelf tagging.

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After RFID Tagging Concludes

• Ensure that returned materials are tagged before re-shelving.

• For returned materials, determine if they are weeding candidates before tagging.

• Document your procedures, data, costs, best practices, and lessons learned—other libraries will likely ask you about your RFID conversion project!

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How can Tech Logic help me with the RFID conversion process at my library?

Free Consultation

If you choose to conduct your own in-house tagging project, Tech Logic is happy to provide free consultation on tagging strategy. We can also provide the equipment needed to streamline the conversion process—including RFID tags. Also, for example, our rfidTAG CASE is a portable, compact solution for cordless RFID tagging in the stacks and our staffCIRC PRO is our RFID staff station solution for streamlined staff workflows in conjunction with the ILS interface.

Turn-Key Conversion Service

If you choose, Tech Logic can implement your RFID conversion from start to finish. Our experts will make sure conversion is completed on time, on budget, and in sync with other RFID project elements. Tech Logic’s tagging service includes all on-site labor, tagging equipment, project management, travel, and expenses.

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Why is Tech Logic the right choice for my library's RFID solutions?

Since Tech Logic’s founding and incorporation in 1997, we have focused exclusively on working with libraries to provide automated solutions that radically decrease the tedious, repetitive labor associated with materials handling and circulation. Because of this focused experience, we can fully commit to customizing each library’s solution and support to fit their specific goals.

Our AMH, self-checkout, staff station, security, and shelf management solutions use intelligent technology and RFID capabilities to empower your staff to focus more on serving patrons and less on repetitive tasks. Our designs are based on constant input from library partners, and all of our proposed solutions align with ISO industry standards because we are committed to suitability, longevity, and interoperability within the library industry.

We are very proud of our customer retention and longevity, especially as a company that has been devoted to the library technology industry since our founding in 1997. Across all of our RFID accounts, our average customer has been with us for 12 years.

Whether it’s excellent customer care reviews, or case studies showing that many of our libraries enjoy over 90% of their checkouts accomplished via patron self-service, or the fact that all of our design specifications are based on years of input from library partners—these kinds of realities demonstrate our unparalleled commitment to the success of our library partners.

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Check out the other posts in this series if you’re looking for an overview of RFID tag types, programming, and placement or you want more insight about common RFID project management considerations.

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Tech Logic connects libraries with their communities through dynamic, innovative, and efficient workflow technologies—delivering unparalleled service and outstanding patron experience. Since 1997, we have worked exclusively with libraries to develop solutions that empower library patrons and staff.

‍Do you want to talk with an expert about your library's needs? Please feel free to book a consultation with us!