The Petroleum institute, PI, a world class institution in both engineering education and energy research, is pleased to announce the completion of the Radio Frequency Identification, RFID, implementation project within the two independent learning centres, Arzanah and Bu Hasa, and the two libraries in Arzanah and Habshan.

This was a multiyear and inter-departmental project. The RFID is now being implemented for self-service, improved stock management and to facilitate long opening hours. The Petroleum Institute now provides Bibliotheca Venus machines which offer easy-to-use self-checkouts, account information and return facilities in over 1,000 libraries worldwide. The new self-checkouts, and automated processes free staff to help students and faculty in providing faster turnaround of materials.

Dr. Thomas Hochstettler, President of the Petroleum Institute, said, "The introduction of this new RFID system gives testimony to our commitment at the Petroleum Institute to provide the best service possible for our students. This installation represents a milestone in our efforts to ensure that we are putting the technological solutions of our times to use in enhancing the learning experience of our students. With this step, I think we are demonstrating once again in a concrete way our determination to become a leader in innovation and service within higher education in the UAE."

Throughout the implementation of RFID-enabled library automation technologies, the PI Libraries and Student Success Centres, who are preparing to enter a new era of self-service. For all users, the change means fast, private self-checkouts, less time spent waiting in line, faster checkout of multiple items instantaneously, more personal attention from library staff, and faster recirculation of returned items.

The new system includes self-service checkout, a loss-prevention security system, RFID programming staff stations, handheld inventory devices and automated check-in and sorting, enabling the Library and Independent Learning Centres to maintain their current high level of service while growing in size and circulation.

Dr. Murray Gray, Senior Vice-President Academics and Provost, said, "Our motivation is to encourage our students to make as much use as possible of all the available facilities. We support any measures to improve their access to educational material. I'm sure the introduction of the RF system will make the students' work easier and more efficient, and in turn encourage them to work harder and achieve success."