How can RFID modernise the guest experience for a new generation?
The pandemic created a landscape that will continue to encourage innovation and technological adoption for many years to come. As a result, our needs as consumers also dramatically evolved.
But what does this mean for libraries?
It means they need to adapt. Learn how to stay relevant and continually provide patrons with the items they require in a way they require. Gen Zer’s are your future (some of them already current) employees and customers. In fact, by 2030, 30% of the global workforce will be Gen Z. That’s why you should get to know them better and try to meet their demands.
How can libraries modernise?
In some ways, this can be easier said than done. Libraries, traditionally are not associated with the terms ‘modern and innovative,’ however this has changed in recent years. Look at Calgary’s Central Library for example, hailed as an “architectural masterpiece” was named in the 2019 list of great places by Times Magazine. And The Epic Center in Grand Prairie, Texas has transformed their offering with high tech, self-service equipment to offer patrons 24/7 access to library resources.
It’s going to take time to work out your new customers and decipher more convenient and exciting ways of doing things, but one thing is for sure, technology should be at the heart of change.
Gen Z’s are true digital natives and believe they have a deep understanding of how technology can transform the way people work and live (Forbes).
This tech savvy generation bring with them not only a lifelong experience with the cloud, social media, and mobile technology but – because they’ve known and adapted to this stuff since birth – are also open to more technology, more changes, more adaptations (TheGuardian).
Fortunately for libraries, there is a lot of help at your disposal in the way of tech. Our R&D team here at D-Tech has dedicated many man-hours to RFID innovation and is confident it will prove to be an invaluable asset for your library and its patrons for many years to come.
How can RFID help you innovate?
1) THE POSSIBILITIES OF RFID ARE ENDLESS
We continually find new uses of RFID in libraries as its technology makes it very easy to stay innovative. Its capabilities include self-service, library security, book returns and sorting, stock management, contactless payment, and much more.
2) EVERYTHING ON-DEMAND
In a world where waiting in line is no longer an option, RFID self-service tech ensures patrons can reserve and collect or check out items at their convenience. Some libraries are even using it to provide 24/7 access to library resources, thanks to RFID lockers and other tech solutions. Yes, that’s correct around-the-clock access to essential library resources.
3) GUEST EXPERIENCE
Gen Zers are the first generation to grow up with smartphones, real-time responses, and constant access to information. As a result, they have come to expect this from the customer experience that businesses provide (ICMI).
Once installed into libraries, RFID solutions are not only designed to streamline operations for library workers but, more importantly, its patrons. Reduced wait times, 24/7 book access, contactless payments, easy returns, and quick and convenient laptop loans are just some of its benefits. And since staff are no longer required to check out books and perform various other management tasks, their time becomes focused on helping patrons – ensuring they have everything they need to learn, grow and enjoy the library experience!
