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5 Ways GS1 QR Codes Make Library Management Systems Smarter

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Using the GS1 QR code for enhancing library management in education is a modern approach to making library operations systematic and smarter.

Since managing libraries is no small feat, cataloging thousands of resources for overdue books and managing fines can be overwhelming.

A library management system using GS1 digital link QR codes helps streamline these operations.

These advanced barcodes store more information than book numbers, making them handy tools for providing instant access to book borrowing history, tracking inventory, and allocating resources.

See how these next-generation barcodes transform library management methods.

How QR codes with GS1 standards enhance library operations

Using the GS1 QR code for enhancing library management in education comes with numerous benefits.

Here are five ways GS1-standardized QR codes make library management smarter:

Streamline cataloging and classification

Cataloging library resources is a time-intensive task. QR codes following GS1 standards enhance this process by automating the identification and providing easy access to metadata.

Librarians generate unique QR codes for each item in bulk using the GS1 QR code generator online and place them as stickers on the resources.

Each QR code links to a landing page from the library’s centralized library management system, which directly shows the specific ISBN, publication number, author, and other important information about the material.

Automate borrowing and returns

Manual entries for borrowing and returning books are tiresome. When each book is tagged with a unique QR code, users simply scan it using the library kiosk, app, or smartphone.

This process applies to borrowing and returning books, ensuring the book’s availability is updated in actual time.

The automated process is so helpful that research on library QR codes showed that almost 93% of librarians are eager to use this technology. It reduces wait time and aids users with faster check-ins and check-outs.

Bridge physical to digital learning resources

Students and staff can easily access supplementary resources by embedding GS1-compliant QR codes in physical library materials.

They access links to e-books, video lectures, podcasts, or related research articles with a quick scan to further their understanding.

QR codes allow students to easily switch between physical textbooks and digital information, such as research papers or case studies. Professors can also enrich their reading lists by assigning QR codes directly linking to additional journal articles.

These digital resources are practical and environmentally friendly because they reduce alliance with printed materials or notes that students must manage.

For example, a library can use QR codes with GS1 standards to guide students studying chemistry to virtual lab experiments or augmented reality apps that demonstrate the practicals instead of handling piles of notes.

Simplify fine collection and payments

All libraries have strict rules regarding borrowing books. Usually, when a student fails to return a book on time, they’re required to pay a fine.

The problem is tracking all the overdue books, collecting the fines from students, and updating the records can be time-consuming. This entire process is also prone to errors if carried out manually.

Library management teams can integrate GS1 barcodes into the library system to automatically generate a QR code for overdue books. These QR codes will be delivered to users via email or a library app to settle their dues.

Upon scanning the QR code, users can view fine details and pay for them immediately. Once the payment is processed, the system automatically updates the user’s record, eliminating the need for manual data entry.

Enable data-driven decision-making

GS1 codes facilitate library operations and act as valuable data collection tools. Each scan generates valuable information that can be analyzed to improve library management.

These data-driven insights include:

  • Borrowing Trends: Identification of popular books and resources based on trends.
  • Underutilized Resources: Highlight books or sections that are rarely accessed.
  • Books Management: Monitor how quickly books are borrowed and returned.
  • User Behavior: Patterns include peak usage times, preferred resource types, and borrowing durations.

Using these insights, librarians can ultimately focus on purchasing high-demand resources, meanwhile reducing investment in low-interest sections.

How GS1 QR codes enhance accessibility in libraries

Accessibility is a critical aspect of modern library management. QR codes with GS1 standards are pivotal in making the learning materials accessible to diverse users.

Access for visually impaired users

Librarians can generate GS1 barcodes for each book binding. The codes will directly link to audio versions of books or research papers for visually impaired users.

The screen-reader-friendly format can also be helpful for some partially impaired students.

Supporting multilingual users

QR codes linked to metadata can offer translations in multiple languages, breaking language barriers for multilingual users, including foreign students.

By scanning a QR code, users can instantly view book details, summaries, or instructions in their preferred language.

Navigation and way-finding

QR codes with GS1 standards placed on library bookshelves can guide students through specific sections or bookshelves. Scans will connect users to virtual assistants or chatbots for instant help locating books.

This will not only smooth library operations but also improve readers’ experience, as they’ll be able to receive instant support without needing to consult library staff.

How to create a high-quality GS1 QR code for enhancing library management in education

Creating GS1 barcode QR codes for library resources is straightforward. Follow the steps given below:

Step 1: Choose a reliable GS1 QR code generator.

Step 2:  Select the type of barcode and input the required information. Then, generate the code.

Step 3 (Optional): Customize QR codes with multiple options of patterns, colors, logos, and frames to make them unique.

Step 4: Perform a few scans to check whether the QR code works.

Step 5: Download the QR codes and incorporate them into the library management.

Tips for the placement of the GS1 QR codes

GS1 barcodes can be placed strategically to ensure maximum usability. Here are some places libraries can keep them:

  • Inside books and other resources
  • Library shelves and sections
  • At self-service kiosks
  • Library cards or user IDs
  • Entrance boards or event notices
  • Study rooms
  • Fine/Payment notices
  • Course materials or e-learning guides

GS1 barcodes: The future of library management

Using the GS1 QR code for enhancing library management in education is a forward-thinking approach.

From cataloging, searching, and allocating to providing access to digital resources, these QR codes set a mark in addressing the challenges often faced by library management teams, allowing them to complete half of their work in no time.

Moreover, the addition of GS1 digital link QR codes attracts students to the library and encourages more engagement as access to resources becomes easier.

Integrating GS1 barcodes in library operations offers a promising future for libraries worldwide.