Description:A LIBRARY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD THEREOF
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention generally relates to a field of library management, more particularly to a library management system and method thereof.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The subject matter discussed in the background section should not be assumed to be prior art merely as a result of its mention in the background section. Similarly, a problem mentioned in the background section or associated with the subject matter of the background section should not be assumed to have been previously recognized in the prior art. The subject matter in the background section merely represents different approaches, which in and of themselves may also correspond to implementations of the claimed technology.
[0003] Traditional library systems present challenges in book accessibility and user navigation. Research indicates that 60% of students struggle to locate specific books due to frequent misplacement or shuffling of titles. Moreover, existing classification methods tend to be complex, with 65% of users finding them confusing and time-consuming. Despite the presence of digital catalogs, 43.9% of users rarely engage with them, while 14% never use them, reflecting a lack of awareness or perceived usefulness. Additionally, with vast collections available, 58% of user experience decision paralysis, struggling to choose books without sufficient recommendations or guidance.
[0004] Current library management solutions, such as manual cataloging and traditional classification systems, often fail to meet the expectations of modern users. The systems lack essential features like real-time book location tracking, interactive navigation, and personalized recommendations. Additionally, they do not provide an intuitive user interface that integrates technology to enhance accessibility. The absence of smart solutions results in inefficient book searches, extended browsing times, and a diminished overall user experience. To address these issues, there is a need for a smart library system that leverages IoT-based navigation, NFC-enabled book issuance, and intelligent user authentication, ensuring an efficient and user-friendly experience.
[0005] According to a patent application “CN103325016A” titled “Library management system” discloses a library management system which comprises an inquiry module, a log-in module, a book recording module, a borrowing reminding module. According to the inquiry module, students can inquire books that they want to borrow through a borrowing terminal or the internet. The log-in module is used for storing personal information of the students. The book recording module is used for recording books stored in a library and books having been borrowed. The borrowing reminding module is used for reminding the students forgetting to return the books which need to be returned. According to the method, the library management system can track classification and borrowing of the books stored in the library and the students are reminded when the returning time of the borrowed books is approached through short messages and e-mails, so that the students are prevented from being fined unnecessarily.
[0006] According to a patent application “EP0230616A2” titled “Library management system” discloses a method for improving the performance of library management systems stored in computer storage. Two types of files are created for each document in storage, one of which contains the original document and a set of updated versions to the document. The other file contains control information to map out a specific version of the document.
[0007] Therefore, there is a need of a library management system that may overcome the drawbacks of prior arts.

OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The objective of present invention is to provide a library management system.
[0010] Further, the objective of the present invention is to provide a method for operating the library management system.
[0011] Further, the objective of present invention is to provide the library management system that enhances book accessibility and navigation using real time tracking.
[0012] Furthermore, the objective of the present invention is to provide LED indicators for assisting users to locate books quickly and efficiently.
[0013] Furthermore, the objective of the present invention is to provide book issuance and return process via NFC technology to reduce manual efforts and enhance convenience.
[0014] Furthermore, the objective of the present invention is to provide push notification for due date, overdue books and personalized recommendations.
SUMMARY
[0015] According to an aspect, the present embodiments library management system. Further, the system comprising a user interface installed within a computing unit configured to allow a user to provide one or more inputs, wherein the one or more inputs comprises search for a book title, author, category, and genre. Further, at least one processor operationally coupled with the user interface, wherein the at least one processor is configured to analyse the one or more inputs. Further, compare a data from a central database to determine availability of book along with location of book within the library, based on the one or more inputs. Further, display the title, author, availability status, specific shelf location of the book within the library on the user interface. Further, display a digital map showing the shortest path to the location of book allowing the user navigate to the specific shelf location of book. Further, a plurality of LED light strips of different colour are equipped at each shelf, wherein the at least one processor is configured to illuminate corresponding LED light strip to guide the user for spotting the desired book. Further, a NFC tag integrated within each book configured to store unique identifier (UID), wherein the user interacts with a NFC reader by tapping NFC enabled user interface or library NFC reader against the NFC tag of the book. Further, the at least one processor is configured to retrieve the UID and compare to the central database to verify the availability of the book. Further, the at least one processor is configured to display a prompt with a confirmation message on the user interface to proceed with book issuance by using NFC enabled library card, PIN, and password verification.
[0016] According to another aspect, a method is disclosed. Further, the method comprises a step of providing, via a user interface, the one or more inputs. Further, analysing, via at least one processor, the one or more inputs. Further, comparing, via the at least one processor, a data from a central database to determine availability of book along with location of book within the library, based on the one or more inputs. Further, displaying, via the user interface, a digital map showing the shortest path to the location of book allowing the user navigate to the specific shelf location of book. Further, illuminating, via a plurality of LED strips, to guide the user for spotting the desired book. Further, tapping, NFC reader of the NFC enabled user interface or library NFC reader against the NFC tag of the book. Further, retrieving, via the at least one processor, the UID and compare to the central database to verify the availability of the book. Further, displaying, via the user interface, a prompt with a confirmation message on the user interface to proceed with book issuance

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] The accompanying drawings illustrate various embodiments of systems, methods, and embodiments of various other aspects of the invention. Any person with ordinary skills in the art will appreciate that the illustrated element boundaries (e.g. boxes, groups of boxes, or other shapes) in the figures represent one example of the boundaries. It may be that in some examples one element may be designed as multiple elements or that multiple elements may be designed as one element. In some examples, an element shown as an internal component of one element may be implemented as an external component in another, and vice versa. Furthermore, elements may not be drawn to scale. Non-limiting and non-exhaustive descriptions are described with reference to the following drawings. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating principles.
[0002] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a library management system, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0003] FIG. 2 illustrates a first flow chart of the library management system, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0004] FIG. 3 illustrates a multiple screens of the user interface, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0005] FIG. 4 illustrates an architectural representation of the book shelves, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0006] FIG. 5 illustrates a second flow chart of the library management system, according to an embodiment of the present invention; and
[0007] FIG. 6 illustrates a flow chart of a method for operating the library management system, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0018] Some embodiments of this invention, illustrating all its features, will now be discussed in detail. The words “comprising,” “having,” “containing,” and “including,” and other forms thereof, are intended to be equivalent in meaning and be open ended in that an item or items following any one of these words is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of such item or items, or meant to be limited to only the listed item or items. It must also be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0019] Although any systems and methods similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the present invention, the preferred, systems and methods are now described. Embodiments of the present invention will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like numerals represent like elements throughout the several figures, and in which example embodiments are shown. Embodiments of the claims may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. The examples set forth herein are non-limiting examples and are merely examples among other possible examples.
[0020] The present invention discloses a novel and effective library management system and method thereof.
[0008] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a library management system (100), according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 illustrates a first flow chart (200) of the library management system (100), according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 illustrates a multiple screen (300) of the user interface, according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 illustrates an architectural representation (400) of the book shelves, according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 illustrates a second flow chart (500) of the library management system (100), according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0009] In some embodiments, the system (100) comprises a user interface (102) installed within a computing unit (104), at least one processor (106), central database (108), and a plurality of LED light strips (110).
[0010] In some embodiments, the system (100) comprises the user interface (102) installed within the computing unit (104), such as a mobile device, tablet, or computer, to facilitate seamless user interaction. The user interface (102) allows the user to provide one or more inputs based on various parameters that comprises book title, author, category, and genre.
[0011] Further, the user interface (102) may enhance the user’s interaction with the library system (100). The user interface (102) integrates with the user’s NFC-enabled library card, allowing instant access to personalized features, comprises book categories, popular titles, and tailored recommendations based on reading history, preferences, and trending books. Users may search for books by title, author, or category, view detailed book information such as ratings and reviews, and receive instant availability updates. The user interface (102) configured to provide notifications about new arrivals and due dates, ensuring a smooth and engaging library experience.
[0012] Further, the user interface (102) comprises multiple screens designed for efficiency and ease of use. A Book Details Screen presents comprehensive metadata, comprises title, author, ratings, and availability status, with options to add books to a wish list or check their availability. Further, a categories Screen simplifies book discovery by organizing books into various genres such as law, fiction, and design. A wish list Screen allows users to save and manage books of interest. The Search Screen offers an advanced search function with quick actions for easy access to book details. Further, a profile screen displays user information, issued books, and wish list management to ensure a personalized and interactive experience.
[0013] In one embodiment, the at least one processor (106) is communicatively coupled to a memory and the user interface (102). The at least one processor (106) may include suitable logic, input/ output circuitry, and communication circuitry that are operable to execute one or more instructions stored in the memory to perform predetermined operations. In one embodiment, the at least one processor (106) may be configured to decode and execute any instructions received from one or more other electronic devices or server(s). The at least one processor (106) may be configured to execute one or more computer-readable program instructions, such as program instructions to carry out any of the functions described in this description. Further, the at least one processor (106) may be implemented using one or more processor technologies known in the art. Examples of the at least one processor (106) include, but are not limited to, one or more general purpose processors and/or one or more special purpose processors. In one embodiments, the system (100) comprises the memory. The memory is configured to store a set of instructions. The memory includes one or more instructions that are executable by the at least one processor (106) to perform specific operations.
[0014] In some embodiments, the at least one processor (106) is configured to analyse the one or more inputs. Further, the at least one processor (106) is configured to compare a data from a central database (108) to determine availability of book along with location of book within the library, based on the one or more inputs. The at least one processor (106) is configured to analyse the one or more inputs, which may comprise book title, author, category, or genre, and process them to retrieve relevant data. Further, the at least one processor (106) is configured to compare the provided input with data stored in the central database (108) to determine the availability of the requested book. Further, the at least one processor (106) is configured to identify the precise location of the book within the library by mapping its position to a designated shelf or section.
[0015] In some embodiments, the at least one processor (106) is configured to display the title, author, availability status, specific shelf location of the book within the library on the user interface (102). The at least one processor (106) is configured to process the retrieved data and display essential book details on the user interface (102) that comprise the title, author, availability status, and specific shelf location within the library. Further, the user interface (102) is configured to present information in a structured and user-friendly format, enabling users to quickly identify whether the book is available for borrowing or reference. Further, the at least one processor (106) is configured to provide precise shelf location details, allowing users to navigate efficiently within the library to retrieve the book with minimal effort.
[0016] In some embodiments, the at least one processor (106) is configured to display a digital map showing the shortest path to the location of book allowing the user navigate to the specific shelf location of book. The at least one processor (106) is configured to generate and display a dynamic digital map that provides real-time navigation guidance, directing the user to the exact shelf location of the desired book within the library. Upon searching for a book, the at least one processor (106) is configured to process the one or more input, retrieves the book’s metadata, and determines the precise shelf location of the book. Based on the information, the at least one processor (106) is configured to calculate the shortest and most efficient route from the current position of the user to the location of the book, displaying it visually on the user interface (102).
[0017] Further, the user interface (102) is configured to provide clear, step-by-step instructions, such as Proceed to the Fiction section (Green Zone) and locate Shelf 3, to ensure that users may follow an intuitive path. Further, the navigation feature may be adjusted dynamically in real time based on the movement of user to ensure continuous guidance.
[0018] In some embodiments, the plurality of LED light strips (110) of different color are equipped at each shelf. Further, at least one processor (106) is configured to illuminate corresponding LED light strip to guide the user for spotting the desired book. The plurality of LED light strips (110) of different colors, are installed on each shelf within the library to facilitate efficient book identification and retrieval. The at least one processor (106) is configured to control the plurality of LED light strips (110) in order to ensure that the correct light is illuminated when the user initiates navigation to a specific book. Upon searching for a book and activating the Navigate to Book option in the user interface (102), the at least one processor (106) is configured to sends a signal to the corresponding shelf in order to trigger the corresponding LED light strip associated with the precise location of book to illuminate.
[0019] Each shelf or cubicle is equipped with individual LEDs or segmented LED strips (110), ensuring that only the required section is highlighted. The plurality of LEDs strips (110) may have different colors or blinking patterns to enhance visibility, helping users to spot their desired book without unnecessary searching.
[0020] Further, the plurality of LED strips (110) remains off to conserve energy. Further, the plurality of LED strips (110) is activated only when navigation is requested. Once the book is located and retrieved, the illumination automatically turns off to optimize power consumption and prevent unnecessary distractions.
[0021] In some embodiments, each book in the library is integrated with an NFC (Near Field Communication) tag designed to store a unique identifier (UID) linked to the central database (108). The NFC tag contains book metadata, that comprises title, author, genre, availability status, and borrowing history. The NFC tag operates passively, requiring no internal power source, as the NFC tag is momentarily powered when in proximity to an NFC reader.
[0022] Further, the user interacted with the NFC reader by tapping the NFC-enabled user interface (102), such as a mobile device or the dedicated library NFC reader, against the NFC tag embedded in the book. When the NFC reader establishes a connection, it retrieves the unique identifier (UID) stored within the NFC tag. The at least one processor (106) then processes this UID and compares it with data stored in the central database (108) to verify the availability status of the book. If the book is available, the system (100) confirms the status for borrowing, while if the book is already issued, the at least one processor (106) is configured to provide relevant details, such as the due date or reservation options via the user interface (102).
[0023] Further, the at least one processor (106) is configured to display a prompt with a confirmation message on the user interface (102) to proceed with book issuance by using NFC enabled library card, PIN, and password verification. The at least one processor (106) is configured to facilitate a secure and user-friendly book issuance process by displaying a confirmation prompt on the user interface (102) after retrieving the details of the book via NFC scanning. When a user taps an NFC-enabled user interface (102) or a library NFC reader against the NFC tag of the book, the at least one processor (106) extracts the unique identifier (UID) and fetches relevant metadata, comprises title, author, genre, availability status, and borrowing history. For example, the information is then displayed on the user interface (102) or a library kiosk screen, along with a confirmation message asking, do you want to issue this book? The user is provided with Yes/No options to ensure that the borrowing process is intentional and to prevent accidental issuance of books.
[0024] Further, if the user selects Yes, the at least one processor (106) is configured to proceed further for an authentication step to verify the identity of the user and authorize the transaction. The authentication process ensure that the book is issued to an authorized library member and is properly linked to their account. Further, the at least one processor (106) is configured to offers multiple authentication methods that comprises NFC library card, user interface (102), PIN or password verification. Further, the user taps their NFC-enabled library card on the NFC reader, which verifies their identity by cross-referencing the stored credentials with the central database (108). Further, If the user interface (102) is already linked to the library account of the user, authentication may occur automatically without requiring additional steps. Further, the at least one processor (106) is configured to provide prompt for allowing the user to enter a PIN or password associated with the library account. Further, the book is officially issued to the user once the authentication is successfully completed. Further, the at least one processor (106) is configured to update central database (108) in real time to reflect the change in availability.
[0025] Further, the at least one processor (106) is configured to manage book return notifications and automate the return process using NFC technology. The user interface (102) configured to notify the users about due dates and overdue books. The notifications may be sent via the user interface (102), email, or SMS, providing users with reminders before the due date and alerts if a book becomes overdue. Further, the user taps the NFC tag of the book against an NFC reader, either on a self-service kiosk or an NFC-enabled user interface (102). Further, the at least one processor (106) is configured to retrieve the unique identifier (UID) of the book and verifies it against the central database (108). Further, the at least one processor (106) is configured to update the status of book as Available.
[0026] FIG. 6 illustrates a flow chart of a method for operating the library management system (100), according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0027] At operation 602, a user interface (102) is configured to provide the one or more inputs. The user interface (102) allows the user to provide one or more inputs based on various parameters that comprises book title, author, category, and genre.
[0028] At operation 604, at least one processor (106) is configured to analyse the one or more inputs. The at least one processor (106) may include suitable logic, input/ output circuitry, and communication circuitry that are operable to execute one or more instructions stored in the memory to perform predetermined operations.
[0029] At operation 606, the at least one processor (106) is configured to compare a data from a central database (108) to determine availability of book along with location of book within the library, based on the one or more inputs. Further, the at least one processor (106) is configured to compare the provided input with data stored in the central database (108) to determine the availability of the requested book. Further, the at least one processor (106) is configured to identify the precise location of the book within the library by mapping its position to a designated shelf or section.
[0030] At operation 608, the user interface (102) is configured to display a digital map showing the shortest path to the location of book allowing the user navigate to the specific shelf location of book. The at least one processor (106) is configured to generate and display a dynamic digital map that provides real-time navigation guidance, directing the user to the exact shelf location of the desired book within the library.
[0031] At operation 610, the plurality of LED strips (110) is configured to illuminate to guide the user for spotting the desired book. Further, at least one processor (106) is configured to illuminate corresponding LED light strip to guide the user for spotting the desired book. The plurality of LED light strips (110) of different colors, are installed on each shelf within the library to facilitate efficient book identification and retrieval. The at least one processor (106) is configured to control the plurality of LED light strips (110) in order to ensure that the correct light is illuminated when the user initiates navigation to a specific book.
[0032] At operation 612, NFC reader is configured to tap on the NFC reader of the NFC enabled user interface (102) or library NFC reader against the NFC tag of the book. When the NFC reader establishes a connection, it retrieves the unique identifier (UID) stored within the NFC tag.
[0033] At operation 614, the at least one processor (106) is configured to retrieve the UID and compare to the central database (108) to verify the availability of the book. The at least one processor (106) then processes this UID and compares it with data stored in the central database (108) to verify the availability status of the book. If the book is available, the system (100) confirms the status for borrowing, while if the book is already issued, the at least one processor (106) is configured to provide relevant details, such as the due date or reservation options via the user interface (102).
[0034] At operation 616, the user interface (102) is configured to display a prompt with a confirmation message on the user interface (102) to proceed with book issuance. For example, the information is then displayed on the user interface (102) or a library kiosk screen, along with a confirmation message asking, do you want to issue this book? The user is provided with Yes/No options to ensure that the borrowing process is intentional and to prevent accidental issuance of books.
[0035] Further, if the user selects Yes, the at least one processor (106) is configured to proceed further for an authentication step to verify the identity of the user and authorize the transaction. The authentication process ensure that the book is issued to an authorized library member and is properly linked to their account.
[0036] It should be noted that the library management system (100) and method thereof, in any case could undergo numerous modifications and variants, all of which are covered by the same innovative concept; moreover, all of the details can be replaced by technically equivalent elements. In practice, the components used, as well as the numbers, shapes, and sizes of the components can be of any kind according to the technical requirements. The scope of protection of the invention is therefore defined by the attached claims.
, Claims:We Claim:
1. A library management system (100), the system (100) comprising:
a user interface (102) installed within a computing unit (104) configured to allow a user to provide one or more inputs, wherein the one or more inputs comprises search for a book title, author, category, and genre;
at least one processor (106) operationally coupled with the user interface (102), wherein the at least one processor (106) is configured to:
analyse the one or more inputs;
compare a data from a central database (108) to determine availability of book along with location of book within the library, based on the one or more inputs;
display the title, author, availability status, specific shelf location of the book within the library on the user interface (102);
display a digital map showing the shortest path to the location of book allowing the user navigate to the specific shelf location of book;
a plurality of LED light strips (110) of different colour are equipped at each shelf, wherein the at least one processor (106) is configured to illuminate corresponding LED light strip to guide the user for spotting the desired book; and
a NFC tag integrated within each book configured to store unique identifier (UID), wherein the user interacts with a NFC reader by tapping NFC enabled user interface (102) or library NFC reader against the NFC tag of the book,
wherein the at least one processor (106) is configured to retrieve the UID and compare to the central database (108) to verify the availability of the book,
wherein the at least one processor (106) is configured to display a prompt with a confirmation message on the user interface (102) to proceed with book issuance by using NFC enabled library card, PIN, and password verification.

2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of LED strips (110) remains off by default and illuminate only when navigation is initiated to conserve energy.

3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a communication module is configured to establish a wireless communication between the at least one processor (106) and the plurality of LED strips (110).

4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein NFC tag comprises book metadata such as title, author, genre, availability status, and borrowing history.

5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one processor (106) is configured to transmit the data to the central database (108) in a real time upon successful issuance of the book.

6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the user interface (102) allows the user to return the book by tapping the NFC tag against the NFC reader, wherein the at least one processor (106) is configured to update the status of book into the central database (108) after successful return of the book.

7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one processor (106) is configured to operate the user interface (102) to notify users regarding the due date, overdue books.

8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one processor (106) is configured to authenticate the user before accessing book search, navigation and burrowing functionalities by using NFC-enabled library card, secure user interface (102) login, PIN or password.

9. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the NFC tag of the book is configured to draws power from the NFC reader during the time of interaction.

10. A method (600):
providing, via a user interface (102), the one or more inputs;
analysing, via at least one processor (106), the one or more inputs;
comparing, via the at least one processor (106), a data from a central database (108) to determine availability of book along with location of book within the library, based on the one or more inputs;
displaying, via the user interface (102), a digital map showing the shortest path to the location of book allowing the user navigate to the specific shelf location of book;
illuminating, via a plurality of LED strips (110), to guide the user for spotting the desired book;
tapping, NFC reader of the NFC enabled user interface (102) or library NFC reader against the NFC tag of the book;
retrieving, via the at least one processor (106), the UID and compare to the central database (108) to verify the availability of the book; and
displaying, via the user interface (102), a prompt with a confirmation message on the user interface (102) to proceed with book issuance.