Electronic article surveillance (EAS) systems are commonly used by libraries and bookstores to protect their inventory from theft. These systems utilize small devices affixed to items, typically inside the back cover, which trigger an alarm if they pass through detection gates at the exit without being deactivated. These devices can be adhesive labels, hard tags, or even integrated into the book’s binding.
This protective measure plays a vital role in reducing inventory shrinkage, a significant challenge for booksellers. By deterring theft, these systems contribute to the financial viability of libraries and bookstores, ensuring they can continue providing access to a wide range of reading materials. This technology has evolved over time, from simpler magnetic strips to more sophisticated radio frequency identification (RFID) tags, allowing for more efficient inventory management and improved security.
