The local host holds a database that is accessed by each of the RFID stations and records all the transaction history carried out in the library. It also controls various system parameters and hardware parameters and captures the real time status of the RFID stations and alerts the administrators through the Admin Station.

Local host runs the ELiMS library management software, which fully integrates each ELiMS component with the central LMS (Library Management System) database. Each process, for example a customer returning a book, will be captured by the local host and instantaneously updated to the central LMS database. Customers thus can immediately borrow again in any library. All transactions are backed up to this local host.

Sited in the library itself, the local host is used as a back-up solution when the central LMS is offline. In normal operation, the local host operates online with the central LMS. However, in the event when the LMS fails to operate, the local host will automatically work offline in standalone mode. Data captured from each process in the library will be stored in the local host until the LMS resumes its normal operation. This will ensure that library operations are not disrupted and no data is lost along the way.

For smaller libraries that do not require a central LMS, this local host could be used as the database server. Alternatively, ELiMS library management software can be installed and integrated with the existing database server.