Adoption of radio frequency identification technology in university libraries

Abstract

Purpose -The purpose of this paper is to investigate the adoption of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology in handling and supporting information services and activities in Kenyan university libraries. Design/methodology/approach -The study utilized a survey research design to collect data, ideas, opinions, views and suggestions from the respondents drawn from various university libraries in Kenya. Collecting data and getting in-depth information from the respondents was done using a web-based structured questionnaire, document analysis and participant observation. Findings -The findings from the study show that few university libraries in Kenya are using radio frequency identification technology to handle and support information services and activities. The study also found various problems hindering the adoption of the technology, such as a lack of information communication technology (ICT) policies, lack of a business approach, limited market opportunities, lack of lobbying or negotiating skills, inadequate funding and budgeting, and lack of ICT competencies and skills. The study recommends that library ICT professionals, information professionals and other stakeholders should make tireless efforts to implement and use RFID technology with the view to building, strengthening, improving and supporting information work and activities in university libraries.Research limitations/implications -The study involved RFID technology, a relatively new and emerging innovation in university library and information systems, especially in the Kenyan context. The study also involved university libraries in Kenya that provide and support the fundamental functions of their respective universities. Practical implications -Fundamentally, library ICT professionals, information professionals and other stakeholders need to take appropriate measures to address issues affecting the use of RFID solutions. There is a need to empower university libraries and information professionals with the right mix of ICT knowledge and skills necessary in the modern information environment. Social implications -Across the world, university libraries are increasingly adopting and implementing RFID solutions in order to handle and support information work and activities. Of critical importance to the discussion is the extent to which university libraries in Kenya are using this technology to handle and support information work and activities effectively and efficiently. Proper management of library operations and services is necessary in university library and information systems. Originality/value -The focus of the study was to assess the extent to which university libraries in Kenya are adopting and using RFID systems in information work and activities. This research is useful in providing a point of reference for university libraries and information professionals, increasingly going for similar solutions in Kenya and Africa in general.

Strategies for the use of open access institutional repositories at universities in Ghana

“…Globally, the systems development of information and communication technologies (ICTs) has become a core and vital component of organizational operations. ICT-based approaches are increasingly valued by organizations (including universities) for providing and enhancing the delivery of quality services to clients (Ondieki Makori, 2013). ICTs have eliminated many of the limitations which are traditionally associated with access to knowledge, such as geographical barriers, time constraints, delays in dissemination, and usability barriers which restrict the range of sources a single person can access (Rahman and Panda, 2012).…”

Radio-frequency identification technology in academic libraries: literature review

“…RFID is one of the tools being used to improve the management and governance of libraries (Nisha, 2018). In the recent past, bar coding and electromechanical (EM) technology was used for security of information materials (Ondieki Makori, 2013). Some institutions still have EM or EM/RFID (Rabari, 2015).…”

The adoption and implementation of RFID : a literature survey

“…We discuss our findings in the following sections: needs and potential applications, benefits and barriers that can promote or impede the adoption of RFID technology, and critical success factors. RFID applications (Makori, 2013) Kenyan University Libraries Supports information services and activities.…”

“…An RFID system makes it easier and faster for users to serve themselves (self-service) and be self-sufficient in terms of access to information resources (Chelliah, Sood & Scholfield, n.d.;Makori, 2013). RFID systems support self-service in terms of reservations, enquiries, and integration with management and anti-virus protection (Madhusudhan, 2010).…”

“…Transactions in university libraries have become faster with RFID systems. A few university libraries in Africa such as the University of South Africa and the American University in Egypt reported success in the use of an RFID system (Makori, 2013). The amount of time required to perform circulation operations for charging and discharging is reduced (Madhusudhan, 2010).…”