UNLV Libraries and the digital identification frontier

• Published in: Library hi tech 2005-09, Vol.23 (3), p.313-322
• Main Authors: Fabbi, Jennifer L., Watson, Sidney D., Marks, Kenneth E., Sylvis, Zep
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: 3M Digital Materials Flow Management; 3M Library Systems; Automatic identification; Automation; Bar codes; Collaboration; Collection management; Digital libraries; Electronic data interchange; Identification; Libraries; Library management; Library materials; Lied Library; Nevada; Nevada University at Las Vegas; Online technical services; Privacy; Product development; Radio frequency identification; Scanners; Software; Studies; University libraries; USA; Work stations
• ISSN: 0737-8831; 2054-166X
• DOI: 10.1108/07378830510621739

Purpose - To reflect on activities and developments related to the 3M™ Digital Materials Flow Management since its implementation at the UNLV Libraries, including system hardware and software developments and the UNLV Libraries' evolving relationship with 3M™.Design methodology approach - Following an introduction which highlights the major 3M™ Digital Materials Flow Management components in place at the UNLV Libraries, product improvements that have expanded the functionality of the system are detailed, patrons and staff benefits of the technology are described, and RFID privacy issues at the UNLV Libraries are examined.Findings - Expanded capability and use of the 3M™ Digital Materials Flow Management system has allowed the UNLV Libraries to establish more efficient processes for undertaking collection management activities, such as inventory and weeding. The system has also had a positive impact on customer service. Benefits of the system currently outweigh the potential risks in terms of patron privacy.Practical implications - Libraries must continually assess their positions on radio frequency identification (RFID) and patron privacy as technology progresses. Additional possibilities and developments stemming from further collaboration between libraries and vendors in areas such as product standardization are anticipated.Originality value - Provides information on innovative uses of the 3M™ Digital Materials Flow Management system and gives concrete examples of system benefits. Useful to libraries considering the implementation of an RFID system, those currently working with the 3M™ Digital Materials Flow Management system, and those considering collaborative work on product development with a vendor.