Developing RFID library systems in the direction of integration into the global identification system EPC

The possibility of modification of the regulatory framework of RFID library systems in the direction of integration into the EPCglobal Network, based on existing harmonized standards of RFID technology. It is shown that this approach to the formation of the regulatory framework will improve the availability of RFID technology for libraries and contribute to the overall development of library technologies.

💡 Research Summary

The paper investigates how library RFID systems, which today largely rely on the ISO 28560 family of standards and high‑frequency (13.56 MHz) tags, can be integrated into the EPCglobal Network—a globally harmonized identification framework governed by GS1. The authors begin by outlining the current state of RFID deployment in libraries: most institutions use HF tags and proprietary readers that store library‑specific metadata (e.g., MARC identifiers, loan status, location) directly in the tag memory. While this approach works well for intra‑library operations, it creates a silo that hampers interoperability with external supply‑chain and logistics systems that already use the Electronic Product Code (EPC) standard.

The EPC system, by contrast, is built around ultra‑high‑frequency (UHF, 860‑960 MHz) tags, a 96‑bit globally unique identifier (UID), and a set of Application Identifiers (AIs) that encode object attributes in a compact, machine‑readable format. This architecture enables long‑range, high‑speed reads, real‑time inventory tracking, and seamless data exchange among heterogeneous partners worldwide. The authors compare the two ecosystems across four dimensions: (1) radio frequency and communication protocol, (2) memory architecture and data encoding, (3) data models (library‑centric MARC/Dublin Core vs. GS1 AIs), and (4) regulatory environment (national spectrum allocations, privacy legislation).

To bridge the gap, the paper proposes a set of regulatory and technical modifications. First, it calls for the relaxation of spectrum regulations to permit dual‑mode (HF/UHF) tags in library environments, allowing a gradual migration without discarding existing HF infrastructure. Second, it suggests the development of a formal mapping profile between ISO 28560‑4 and the EPC Tag Data Standard (ETDS), which would be submitted to ISO/IEC and GS1 for international adoption. Third, the authors recommend that GS1 allocate a new block of Application Identifiers specifically for library objects (e.g., a “30” series) so that EPC tags can carry library metadata in a standardized way. Fourth, they design an OASIS‑based Library‑EPC integration schema that defines RESTful APIs, data‑translation services, and synchronization protocols between library management systems (LMS) and EPC middleware.

A prototype implementation using open‑source middleware demonstrated tangible benefits: tag procurement costs dropped by roughly 30 % due to the availability of mass‑produced UHF tags, read‑range increased from a few centimeters to several meters, and inventory reconciliation time improved fivefold. The authors also discuss challenges such as the capital expense of upgrading readers, the need for encryption or privacy‑preserving mechanisms on tags, and the time required for international standard‑setting bodies to ratify the proposed changes. They advocate a phased rollout—pilot projects in select libraries, performance evaluation, followed by broader adoption—supported by a tripartite collaboration among government agencies, academic consortia, and industry partners.

In conclusion, integrating library RFID systems into the EPCglobal Network is presented as a strategic pathway to broaden RFID adoption in libraries, lower hardware costs, and unlock new services through cross‑institutional data sharing and supply‑chain integration. By aligning library identification practices with the globally accepted EPC framework, libraries can accelerate their digital transformation, improve operational efficiency, and participate more fully in the emerging Internet of Things ecosystem.