Challenges and opportunities of internet of things for library management

Abstract

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a vision of connectivity for anything, at anytime and anywhere, which may have a dramatic impact on our daily lives similar to the Internet done in past 10–20 years. It is recognized as an extension of today’s Internet to the real world of physical objects, which is often associated with such terms as “ambient intelligent,” “ubiquitous network,” and “cyberphysical system.” Its development depends on dynamic technical innovation in a number of important fields, ranging from fundamental microelectronic devices, sensor technologies to information and communication technologies (ICT). The Internet of Things has been called by many names. The idea is that objects can be connected through the internet in new ways. This happens when a combination of web-enabled devices (computers, phones, handhelds) and technology that can communicate with those devices (sensors, RFID, 2D and 3D barcodes) allows information to be attached to an object. The information can stand on its own and be read by a device or it can trigger an action such as bringing up a web page, playing a video, reminding pick up book, or giving a message to customer. This paper analyzes the key technology and working principle of IoT, its development in India and abroad, its application in the library development and management. The primary intent of this paper is to provide libraries an overview of IoT features and capabilities that can be used to develop online complex library solutions.