PSP Asset Protection is expanding its eRLS RFID library stock control range with two innovative new products designed to make library security more discreet, flexible and effective.
Library security has come a long way. Today’s libraries need to protect valuable collections while remaining open, welcoming and accessible spaces for everyone.
That’s why we’ve developed eRLS Mat and eRLS Guard, the latest additions to our eRLS range of UHF RFID library security and stock control solutions.
Together, these innovative products provide a complete, discreet loss-prevention system – helping librarians and library management teams monitor the movement of RFID-tagged items without relying on conventional, highly visible security gates.
A new approach to library security
Traditional library security gates can be effective, but they aren’t always the right solution for every environment.
Floor space may be limited. A building may have a particular architectural aesthetic to maintain. An entrance may need to remain completely unobstructed. Or a library may simply want its security technology to be as discreet as possible.
eRLS Mat offers a completely different approach.
The modular UHF RFID mat is installed into the floor, with multiple RFID antennas integrated within it to create a defined detection zone. The technology can be installed beneath suitable floor coverings or incorporated into materials such as cement, helping the security system become part of the building rather than an obvious addition to it.
The result is powerful RFID detection that’s virtually out of sight.
Meet eRLS Mat
At the heart of the new system is eRLS Mat, a high-performance modular UHF RFID detection mat designed to monitor tagged items as they pass through a doorway, corridor or other defined access point.
Unlike traditional security gates or overhead antenna panels, the RFID antennas are contained within the floor-mounted mat.
This provides several important advantages for libraries:
- Discreet installation – the RFID technology is largely hidden from view.
- Flexible configuration – modular mats can be installed in different configurations to suit the environment.
- Defined detection zones – tagged items can be monitored as they pass through specific access points.
- Space-saving design – ideal where floor space is limited or entrances need to remain unobstructed.
- Robust construction – the mat is designed to withstand loads of up to 500kg.
- Easy integration – eRLS Mat can connect to a compatible RFID reader as part of a wider RFID solution.
This makes eRLS Mat particularly well suited to libraries where conventional security gates may not be practical, desirable or compatible with the building’s design.
Meet eRLS Guard
eRLS Guard is the control and alarm element of the system.
Working alongside the eRLS Mat, the eRLS Guard monitors the RFID detection zone and can activate an audible and visual alarm when a tagged item meets the configured detection criteria.
Its compact, wall-mounted enclosure incorporates:
- UHF RFID detection and alarm control
- Power over Ethernet (PoE)
- An integrated loudspeaker for audible alerts
- Visual alarm indicators
- Configurable alarm detection
In simple terms, eRLS Mat detects and eRLS Guard responds – creating a complete UHF RFID loss-prevention solution without the need for traditional freestanding security gates.
Why does this matter to librarians?
The biggest benefit isn’t simply that eRLS Mat and eRLS Guard provide another way of securing library stock.
It’s that they give library teams more choice.
Every library is different. A school library, university library, NHS library and public library can have very different layouts, access requirements and security challenges.
The expanded eRLS range allows PSP to recommend a solution around the library, rather than expecting the library to adapt around a standard security system.
For example, eRLS Mat could be particularly useful where:
Space is limited.
A floor-integrated solution can help avoid taking up valuable circulation or entrance space with freestanding gates.
A discreet solution is required.
With the antennas hidden beneath the floor, the technology can operate without dominating the visual appearance of the library.
An entrance needs to remain unobstructed.
The system can provide a defined RFID detection zone without creating a physical barrier.
Security needs to become part of the building design.
The mat can be incorporated beneath suitable flooring or into materials such as cement, subject to the appropriate installation requirements.
Expanding the eRLS RFID library stock control ecosystem
eRLS Mat and eRLS Guard aren’t designed to replace the wider eRLS system. They’re designed to expand what it can do.
The eRLS range brings together UHF RFID technology and library stock control to help libraries improve the way they manage, monitor and protect their collections.
Adding a discreet floor-based detection solution means library management teams now have even greater flexibility when planning their RFID security infrastructure.
It’s another step towards a more integrated approach to library management – where security, stock control and the movement of resources can all work together.
And because UHF RFID can identify tagged items as they move through a defined area, the technology can support improved visibility and control over item movement without requiring staff to manually monitor every access point.
Security that works quietly in the background
One of the defining principles behind eRLS is that technology should make life easier for library teams – not create additional work.
That’s particularly important when it comes to security.
A good library security system should protect the collection while allowing librarians to get on with their day-to-day roles. It shouldn’t make the library feel like a high-security environment or create unnecessary barriers for users.
That’s where the discreet nature of eRLS Mat really comes into its own.
The detection technology is incorporated into the floor, while eRLS Guard provides the alarm and control functionality from a compact, wall-mounted unit.
The technology is there when it’s needed – but largely disappears into the environment when it’s not.
A more flexible future for library security
The launch of eRLS Mat and eRLS Guard represents the latest development in PSP’s growing range of RFID-powered library solutions.
Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, we’re continuing to develop the eRLS ecosystem to give librarians and library management teams more options for protecting their collections, improving operational efficiency and creating better library environments.
It’s library security designed around the needs of modern libraries.
Whether you’re planning a new library, refurbishing an existing space, replacing traditional security gates or looking to upgrade your library stock control system, eRLS Mat and eRLS Guard could provide a discreet and flexible alternative.
Discover the new eRLS Mat and eRLS Guard
Want to find out whether eRLS could work for your library?
PSP Asset Protection’s library design experts can help you explore the options and identify the right combination of RFID stock control and security technology for your environment.
Get in touch with our friendly team to arrange a free, no-obligation consultation and discover how the expanded eRLS range can help you protect your library collection – discreetly.