A Secure, Scalable RFID-Based Library Management System for Academic Use
“Making library automation truly accessible with low-cost hardware and intelligent design.”
LibraTag is a modular RFID-based system designed to streamline library management in schools, colleges, and research labs. It enables secure, session-based borrowing and returning of books using low-cost Arduino hardware and RFID tags — without enterprise infrastructure.
Unlike traditional systems, LibraTag supports real-time feedback, data logging, and strict UID-based verification, making it ideal for academic use while also adaptable for commercial deployments with licensing.
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✅ RFID Identity & Asset Tagging
Distinct UIDs for students and books using RC522 and RFID tags. -
✅ Time-Limited Sessions
Prevents spoofed scans via auto-expiring borrowing windows. -
✅ Secure Book Borrow/Return Logic
Detects duplicate entries, student mismatch, and over-borrowing. -
✅ Dual Microcontroller Architecture
Arduino Nano (RFID logic) + UNO (logging, decision control). -
✅ Visual & Audio Feedback
Red/Green LEDs and buzzer feedback for fast user cues. -
✅ Offline Logging (SD Card + RTC)
Timestamped logging for auditing and analytics. -
✅ Admin Card Support
Override actions in emergency/maintenance situations.
| Component | Qty | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Arduino UNO R3 | 1 | Logging & decision controller |
| Arduino Nano | 1 | RFID reader logic |
| RC522 RFID Module | 1 | Reads RFID cards & book tags |
| RFID Cards/Stickers | ✱ | UID tags for students/books |
| 5V Active Buzzer | 1 | Error/success tones |
| Green LED + Red LED | 1+1 | Indicates system state |
| 220Ω Resistors | 2 | Current limiting for LEDs |
| Push Button | 1 | Ends sessions manually |
| Micro SD Card Module | 1 | Optional: persistent logging |
| DS3231 RTC Module | 1 | Adds real-time clock |
| Micro SD Card (≥2 GB) | 1 | Stores log entries |
| Breadboard & Jumper Wires | ✱ | For prototyping |
| Enclosure (3D-Printed) | 1 | Optional but recommended for durability |
Student Scan → Session Opens (20s Window)
↓
Book(s) Scanned → Validated, Logged, Feedback Given
↓
Session Auto-Closes or Ends via Button
✅ Green LED + Tone → Success
❌ Red LED + Buzz → Error / Invalid Action
🕒 20s timeout after last student scan
If SD + RTC modules are attached, every transaction is saved in the following format:
[DATE], [TIME], [ACTION], [STUDENT_UID], [BOOK_UID], [ROLL_NO/BOOK_ID]
Examples:
2025-07-08, 14:12:35, BORROW, 23AC4411, F36B0D21, BC-1745
2025-07-08, 14:13:05, RETURN, 23AC4411, F36B0D21, BC-1745
This allows for complete audit trails, misusage detection, and lending statistics.
Connect RFID, LEDs, buzzer, button, RTC & SD to Nano/UNO as per circuit.
- Upload
LibraTag_Nano.inoto Arduino Nano - Upload
LibraTag_UNO.inoto Arduino UNO
Add valid book UIDs and student UIDs in the Nano code.
System enters idle mode; ready to scan.
LibraTag uses a Custom Dual License model:
| Use Case | Terms |
|---|---|
| 🎓 Students | Free for academic projects & personal use |
| 🏫 Researchers | Free for non-commercial research purposes |
| 🏢 Commercial Use | Paid License Required |
You may not use this project for commercial, for-profit, or SaaS integration without an explicit paid license.
SeeLICENSEfor full legal terms.
- 🌐 ESP32-based Web Sync
- 📟 LCD Message Display for Scans
- 🛜 Remote Admin Override via Wi-Fi
- 🧾 QR Code Printout of Logs
- 📊 Web Dashboard for Admins
We welcome PRs that:
- Add new modules (LCD, NFC, wireless)
- Improve session security
- Add multilingual feedback
- Optimize memory usage on Nano
Fork → Branch → PR → Merge 🔁
→ Contribute here
© 2025 LibraTag Team
All rights reserved.
License headers embedded in source code are non-removable under this license.
“A well-managed library reflects a well-managed mind.” — LibraTag Team