Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags are being used by many libraries to track books and improve efficiency. However, some librarians have privacy concerns about patrons' reading habits being tracked. The Oleander Library Cooperative had planned to implement an RFID system across its three branches but had to postpone due to funding issues. The library director assured that patrons' information would be secure if the RFID system is properly managed. The issue is set to be debated at the next town meeting.

1. Baby Fights Fire
With Bottle!
Somebody’s Watching Me… being Green! Proud Father says,
“That’s my boy!”
Privacy concerns, funding, halt RFID implementation. Mother faints on scene.
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags are all the rage in today’s libraries. Primarily used
to identify books being checked in and out of the library, RFID’s are small electronic devices
that are attached to an item (like a book) and designated with a serial number which identifies
the item when near a “RFID-reader.”
If you’ve ever used a self-checkout kiosk at Wal-mart or walked through a security gate at the
mall- you’ve been through a RFID-reader. RFID’s have rapidly become a staple of the retail
industry.
With RFID’s libraries can track books and organize collections with greater ease than ever
before. When it comes to library management many librarians consider RFID’s to be the wave
of the future.
However, some librarians disagree.
“RFID’s violate people’s privacy! Government agencies and other nefarious evil-doers
can use them to track our reading habits!” warns librarian Parry Noid.
Despite this- many libraries are still making the switch to RFID tracking systems.
“RFID’s are the best thing that ever happened to library management. They speed up
FOR SALE:
everything and prevent books being stolen! Besides no one really cares you’re USED Tombstone.
reading!” raves librarian Nai Eve. Perfect for someone named
“Harry Charles Brinkley”
Despite this debate the Oleander Library Cooperative hoped to have an RFID system installed $200 OBO.
at all three of the libraries in town before the grand opening of their newest branch, the Green
Oleander Public Library, but funding issues forced the board postpone.
WANTED:
“When managed properly RFID’s are just as safe and as private as our current Time-Travel Partner.
method of record control,” says Library Director Pra T. Ical “We here at the Oleander This is not a joke.
Library Cooperative have every confidence that our patron’s information will be Bring your own weapon!
secure.”
Safety not guaranteed.
Still, despite these assurances the issue is scheduled to be open to debate at the next town Serious inquiries only.
meeting. Concerned citizens are asked to bring their questions before the council. (776) 222-3333