Abstract
The “Wi-Fi Library Book Locator” project is designed to help library users locate books within a library using
a mobile application that leverages Wi-Fi technology for indoor positioning. This system aims to improve the user
experience by providing a convenient and efficient way to find books in large libraries. The android application will guide users to the exact location of a book by mapping out the library’s layout and providing step-by-step
navigation to the desired book.
Existing System
In most libraries, users must manually search for books using the library’s catalog system and then navigate the shelves based on section or call number. This Wi-Fi Library Book Locator can be time-consuming and
challenging, especially in large libraries where finding a specific book can be difficult. Some libraries use
barcode scanners or RFID tags, but these systems still require users to locate the general area of the book on their own.
Proposed System
The proposed “Wi-Fi Library Book Locator” system will integrate a mobile application with Wi-Fi-based indoor positioning to provide accurate and real-time navigation within the library. The app will allow users to search
for a book in the library’s digital catalog, after which it will provide a mapped path to the exact location of the
book on the shelves. By leveraging Wi-Fi signals and indoor positioning algorithms, the system aims to
offer precise navigation, making it easier and faster for users to locate books.
Methodologies
- Agile Methodology: Use Agile practices for iterative development, allowing for continuous improvement based on user feedback and testing.
- Prototyping: Develop prototypes to test the book search, location accuracy, and indoor
navigation features, refining the app based on user experience. - Model-View-Controller (MVC) Architecture: Employ MVC architecture to separate the user
interface from application logic and data management, ensuring a modular and maintainable design.
Technologies Used
- Android SDK: For developing the mobile application, including user interface design and core functionalities.
- Java/Kotlin: Programming languages used for Android development.
- Wi-Fi Positioning System (WPS): For indoor positioning using Wi-Fi signals to determine the user’s location within the library.
- Google Maps API: For mapping and navigation within the library, providing users with step-by-step directions to the book.
- Firebase/SQLite: For storing and managing the library’s digital catalog and user data.
- RESTful APIs: For communication between the mobile app and the library’s catalog system to search and retrieve book details.
System Features
- Book Search: Allows users to search for books in the library’s catalog using the mobile app.
- Indoor Positioning: Utilizes Wi-Fi signals to determine the user’s location within the library and provide accurate navigation.
- Library Layout Mapping: Displays the library’s layout on the app, including sections, shelves, and the user’s current location.
- Step-by-Step Navigation: Guides users from their current location to the exact location of the desired book, using the library’s layout.
- Book Details: Provides detailed information about the book, including availability, author, and call number.
- User Accounts: Allows users to create and manage accounts to save search history and preferences.
Benefits
- Improved User Experience: Simplifies the process of finding books in the library, making it faster and more convenient for users.
- Time Efficiency: Reduces the time spent searching for books by providing precise navigation to their location.
- Accessibility: Enhances accessibility for all users, including those who may find it challenging to navigate large libraries.
- Increased Library Usage: Encourages more users to utilize library resources by making it easier to find and access books.
Use Cases
- Book Search and Location: Users can search for a book by title, author, or subject and receive navigation instructions to locate it on the shelves.
- Library Navigation: Users can explore the library layout and find specific sections or areas, such as study rooms or help desks.
- Library Staff Assistance: Library staff can use the app to assist patrons in locating books more quickly and efficiently.
Implementation Steps
- Wi-Fi Positioning System Integration: Implement Wi-Fi-based indoor positioning to determine user location accurately within the library.
- Library Layout Mapping: Create a digital map of the library layout, including all sections and shelves, to be used for navigation.
- User Interface Design: Develop an intuitive interface for searching the catalog, viewing book details, and navigating to book locations.
- Catalog Search and Integration: Integrate the library’s digital catalog with the app, allowing users to search for books and retrieve location data.
- Navigation Algorithm: Develop algorithms to calculate the optimal path from the user’s current location to the book’s location, considering obstacles and shelf arrangements.
- Testing and Quality Assurance: Conduct thorough testing to ensure accurate positioning, reliable navigation, and a smooth user experience across different devices.
- User Feedback and Iteration: Collect feedback from users to refine the app, improve usability, and release updates based on user needs.
Challenges and Considerations
- Wi-Fi Signal Accuracy: Ensuring the Wi-Fi positioning system provides accurate location data, especially in libraries with complex layouts or multiple floors.
- Library Layout Complexity: Mapping out detailed and accurate library layouts, which may vary significantly between different libraries.
- User Experience: Designing a user-friendly interface that accommodates different types of users, including those who may not be tech-savvy.
- Data Privacy: Ensuring that user data, including location information and search history, is stored securely and accessed only by authorized users.
