Near Field Communication (NFC) technology is a short-range, wireless communication technology that transfers data between two chips while they remain in close proximity with one another.
We applied NFC technology across the library and campus in a variety of contexts to promote digital resources, collections, and services. Our @FIULibraries: Tap, Scan, Read project marries digital resources with physical objects, allowing library users to access digital materials and information in a flash. The project has evolved into a multifaceted endeavor that includes smart posters, e-resource cards, a course reserves binder, library displays, and wayfinding tools. Project details are available in our @FIULibraries: Tap, Scan, Read LibGuide (https://libguides.fiu.edu/nfc).
With the tap of an NFC-equipped device, students can access an ebook, watch a video, or contact a librarian instantly! To enhance usability, we integrated QR codes and short URLs into the materials, which works seamlessly alongside the newer NFC technology.
Thanks to the use of NFC technology, usage of our library’s resources and services in the areas incorporating this technology skyrocketed, increasing circulation and use of both our physical and digital resources. This parallels current industry trends, which encourage increased development, including an expansion of NFC capabilities throughout the Apple ecosystem.
Objectives: (1) explain what Near Field Communication (NFC) technology is, (2) provide instructions on how to create NFC-enabled library resources and services, (3) demonstrate an application of NFC technology in the library setting, and (4) discuss the impact of NFC technology on usage of library resources and services.
The authors have previously written about NFC technology applications for library and information science journals. They have worked on four current and completed projects using NFC technology, with several more underway, for their library. Christopher M. Jimenez manages and promotes the @FIULibraries: Tap, Scan, Read project as part of ongoing initiatives to enhance library user experience with technology. Barbara M. Sorondo was an early adopter of NFC technology for library marketing and has co-created library displays and wayfinding tools that leverage this technology.
