ISO 28560-2:2023

Overview

ISO 28560-2:2023 specifies a standards-based data model and encoding rules for using RFID tags in libraries. Building on the data elements defined in ISO 28560-1, this part defines how a subset of those elements is encoded on RFID transponders using the object-identifier rules from ISO/IEC 15962. The standard supports flexible, variable-length and variable-format data, allows optional data to appear in any sequence on the tag, and details technical characteristics, air‑interface requirements, and tag performance needed for library environments.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Data model & encoding rules
  • Encoding of RFID data elements from ISO 28560-1 based on ISO/IEC 15962 object identifier structure.
  • Support for variable-length, variable-format data and arbitrary data sequencing on tags.
• RFID air interface & tag behavior
  • Required air-interface protocol, memory declarations (AFI, DSFID), command sets and performance expectations.
  • Bit/byte ordering, logical memory configuration and required reader/tag commands (references to ISO/IEC 15961-1).
• Data elements defined
  • Primary item identifier, owner institution (ISIL), set info, shelf location, media formats (ONIX/MARC), supplier/ILL fields, GS1/product identifiers, local data, title and more.
• Security, privacy & integrity
  • Guidance on data integrity, item security features (dual AFI, unique tag ID, EAS) and privacy considerations.
• Implementation & migration
  • Guidance and examples provided (Annexes C–E) including pre-encoding ISIL, encoding examples and migration strategies for libraries adopting or upgrading RFID.

Practical applications and users

ISO 28560-2 is applicable to all library types - national, academic, public, special, corporate and school libraries - and is intended for:

• Library technologists and automation teams implementing RFID-based circulation, inventory and self-service systems.
• Integrated Library System (ILS) and RFID vendors designing tag encoding, reader firmware and middleware.
• RFID tag and reader manufacturers ensuring air-interface, memory and performance conformance for library use cases.
• Consortia and standards implementers coordinating consistent encoding across institutions (ISIL handling, shared collections).

Practical uses include standardized item identification on tags for checkout, inventory, interlibrary loan tracking, supply-chain tracking and security.

Related standards

• ISO 28560-1 - Data elements for RFID in libraries (source set).
• ISO/IEC 15962 - Encoding rules using object identifiers (basis for encoding).
• ISO/IEC 15961-1 - Application commands/responses referenced for tag operations.

This document provides essential, standards-based guidance for consistent, interoperable RFID tag encoding in library environments and includes informative annexes with implementation examples and migration advice.