Implementing Smart Shelves in Academic Libraries: A Case Study

Abstract

The way college libraries have changed over time is very important for keeping up with the changing needs of modern study and teaching. This case study looks at how Smart Shelves were used in an academic library, focused on how they changed how the library worked, how users felt, and how data was managed. RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology is built into smart shelves to make inventory management easier, make the shelves safer, and give real-time information on where and how many books are available. In the university library of XYZ University, standard shelf systems were replaced with Smart Shelves over the course of six months for the study. Key goals included cutting down on the time libraries spend managing supplies, lowering the number of lost books, and making it easier for students and staff to find resources. Methodology included a study before and after the system was put in place. Data were gathered from library logs, user polls, and system performance measures. The results showed that inventory checks took 40% less time and books were lost 30% less often. User happiness polls showed that 85% of people said it was easy to find books, and the real-time access function was one of the best parts. The Smart Shelves system gave the library useful data analytics that helped them learn more about how people used the library and what they liked. This information was used to improve the library's speed and service quality by better organizing shelves and allocating resources. The initial financial input, staff training, and integrating the system with current library management software were some of the problems that had to be solved during the introduction. They were lessened, though, by deploying in stages, offering thorough training, and working together with vendors to provide support. The addition of Smart Shelves to XYZ University's academic library made operations much more efficient, users happier, and data handling much easier. This case study shows how Smart Shelves could change library services and gives other organizations thinking about similar technology advances a way to start.