Overview
ISO 28560-3:2023 - Information and documentation - RFID in libraries - Part 3: Fixed length encoding - defines a standards-based data model and encoding rules for storing library item information on RFID tags. Intended for all types of libraries (national, academic, public, corporate, special and school), the standard specifies a fixed-length basic block plus optional extension blocks for additional data elements. It promotes interoperability of RFID tag encoding and supports migration from legacy systems while providing implementation guidance in informative annexes.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Data model and elements: Uses the data elements defined in ISO 28560-1; a subset is encoded in the fixed-length basic block and other elements in extension blocks. Local codes may be used where allowed by ISO 28560-1.
- Basic block: Occupies the first 272 bits of the tag; if a tag is limited to 256 bits (32 bytes) the basic block is truncated.
- Extension blocks: Support structured and unstructured extension blocks (e.g., library extension block, acquisition extension, title block, ILL block) to encode optional or longer data.
- Encoding rules: Defines string and integer encoding, fixed-length and variable-length fields, memory area layout, writing/reading direction, and CRC (cyclic redundancy check) handling for data integrity.
- RFID air interface: Requires conformance to Mode 1 of the air interface specification (see ISO/IEC 18000-3); tag performance and conformance test methods are referenced (ISO/IEC 18046-3, ISO/IEC 18047-3).
- Page and memory alignment: Uses the concept of a page (minimum read/write unit) and allows filler blocks for page alignment.
- Operational features: Guidance on reading optimization, profiling, locking, and migration between encodings.
Practical applications and users
- Library uses: Item identification for circulation, self-service checkout, security, inventory, materials handling and resource sharing.
- Who benefits:
- Library systems architects and technical staff implementing RFID
- RFID equipment and tag manufacturers ensuring compliance
- Library consortia coordinating interoperable tagging policies
- Procurement teams specifying tag and reader requirements
- Software developers integrating tag data into ILS/ILS-like systems
- Practical value: Enables consistent, interoperable RFID tag encoding across vendors and collections, reducing costs and simplifying interlibrary lending and shared services.
Related standards
For implementation examples and technical annexes (CRC, reading optimization, profiling), consult the informative annexes in ISO 28560-3:2023.
