Page 15 - DLIS007_LIBRARY AUTOMATION

Library Automation

Notes In the long run, the cost of work done by a librarian in manual system for routine activities
will become less and that can be utilized in giving programmed or individualized
information services.
Budget Allocation: Library automation needs a huge initial investment. Administrators
should be informed about the urgency and usefulness of the process. The fund for the
process was earmarked in the annual budget and extracted from the library allotment.
Since it was a onetime investment, it will not hamper the routine book and periodical
accession in coming years.
Administrative Support: Strong administrative backing is essential for the process.

Step 2: System Selection (Software and Hardware)

Selecting the right integrated library management software package is very important. The
strength of the automation is mainly depended on the quality of the system software. A number
of software is available in the market. For the selection certain things should be remembered.

Selection Criteria: The criteria for selection must be user friendliness; portability; after
service; Cost and Proper documentation.
Advantages of Local Software: The main advantage of using local software is the
promptness in service. Most of the libraries (school, college and research institutions)
have been using the software for years. The pricing was reasonable. It was easy to use.
Simple user interface and searching facilities are helpful for students.
Hardware: One computer system is used as the server and one as OPAC for the users.
A laser printer have been using for printing of labels. The retrospective conversion work
needed two computers. Barcode reader (PSC Quick scan 6500) was selected as input device
for reading books and identity cards. Other materials such as self-adhesive labels and
cello tapes were also procured.

Step 3: Preparing the Collection for the Automating System

To start the technical processing (retrospective conversion), the materials (books, multimedia
and periodicals) for the process had to be selected and prepared.

Periodicals: All the periodicals were included in the selection.
Multimedia: Subject and encyclopaedic multimedia CD-ROMs were selected for the process.

Step 4: Implementing the Automated System

The implementation phase consists of retrospective conversion, database of members, operations,
statistics generation and training for staff and users.

Retrospective Conversion: The process of converting the bibliographic or documentary
details of the existing stock into the machine-readable form is known as retrospective
conversion. This technical processing consists of Bibliographical data entry and physical
processing. The steps in Bibliographical data entry are:
1. Classification: In library classification, materials are classified according to the subject
of their content. The classification system used and being followed is Dewey Decimal
Classification, Edition 21 (the most favoured scheme around the world). Here, the
subjects are primarily classified into ten main divisions (First summary). Each division
is again classified into ten subdivisions and again into ten, according to the depth of
the subjects (Second and Third summaries).

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