Design and development of an automatic book return machine using RFID and IoT technology

This study presents the design and development of an Automatic Book Return Machine that simplifies the book return process in libraries by eliminating direct interaction between users and library staff. The system integrates Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), sensors, and actuators to automate book verification and storage processes, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and integration with existing library databases. Each borrower verifies their identity using a student card embedded with an RFID tag, after which the system validates the returned book via a second RFID reader. If the returned book matches the database record, the actuator transfers it to the storage unit, and the system updates the database to reflect the 'returned' status. Books that do not match the borrower’s record are automatically rejected. The prototype features a real-time notification system for full storage conditions and user feedback through display and email alerts. This innovation minimizes human error, reduces queues, and enhances operational efficiency in library management.