The development of self-service lending and returning machines can be traced back to the late 1990s. At that time, with the development of computer technology and network technology, some libraries began to try to use self-service lending machines to improve lending efficiency and service quality.

The first generation of self-service book borrowing and returning machine mainly used barcode technology, and completed the borrowing and returning operation by scanning the barcode of books. The advantage of this machine is that it is simple and easy to use, but readers need to prepare their own barcode scanners and spend some time learning how to use them.

The second generation self-service book borrowing and returning machine uses RFID technology to identify book information through radio waves and realize fast and accurate borrowing and returning operation. The advantage of this machine is that it is more convenient and faster to operate, and at the same time it can realize automatic management and improve the working efficiency of the library.

With the development of artificial intelligence and Internet of Things technology, the third generation self-service book borrowing and returning machine began to appear. These machines are equipped with high-performance processors and various sensors, which can automatically borrow and return books, and also realize intelligent management and personalized recommendation.

In the future, with the continuous progress and innovation of technology, the self-service book borrowing and returning machine will continue to develop and gradually become an indispensable part of the library. Libraries can improve service quality and work efficiency by introducing more intelligent self-service book borrowing and returning machines, and at the same time provide readers with more convenient and personalized service experience.