The American University in Cairo (AUC) Library ID Center replaced all university IDs with new RFID enabled photo ID cards.
The ID Center issued RFID ID cards to new recipients during the Spring 2007 semester. The target date were the end of February 2007.
The ID cards are being replaced as part of a joint project to tag the Main Library’s collection with RFID tags.
This use of RFID technology improved the library’s ability to manage its collection and make it easier for library patrons to enter the library and check out materials. The IDs and RFID tags also made the library collection and ID information more secure.
With the introduction of RFID ID card technology, there is the capacity for the university to use the ID card for other purposes, such as connecting to the Student Information System, registering for classes, financial transaction in the bookstore or food services, parking and campus access in the New-Cairo campus.
For privacy the card use a passive tag so it depened on a serial number, and in order for that number to be of any use, you would have to have access to the ID system. There is actually, more information printed on the surface of the card (ex. picture, status, ID number) than is stored on the chip. Additionally, a reader also have to be within 10cm to read a card.
AUC Library was awarded a USAID/ASHA grant to cover the majority of the costs involved with this project.
