Page 19 - DLIS007_LIBRARY AUTOMATION

Library Automation

Notes Finding the Book-work Flow: The user noted down the Call No. of the required book
form the database. Then he/she goes to the stack room where books are shelved according
to their call numbers. Shelf guides are there to help to find the concerned shelf number.
From the shelf the user picks the book and brings it to the circulation counter for issue.
Back-up: The backup has been taken in fixed intervals. The database is copied on CD-ROMs
as to avoid unexpected system crashes and data losses.

Step 7: Staff Training and User Education

The librarian should be well trained in the overall management and maintenance of the
automated system. He will get initial training from the software vendor and has to continuously
update it according to the changing user needs and technology. In this case the librarians got
training from the company. Training sessions on the automated library system (mainly, OPAC
search, finding the book, circulation, etc.) are conducted for the users. These skill development
programmes can be organized during the library periods. For staff members special time slots
should be planned.

Step 8: Evaluation

The system must be evaluated for its currency and effectiveness periodically. User studies can be
conducted to assess the effectiveness of services. Real time oral interviews with the users and
observation techniques can be used. The shortcomings should be identified and clearing measures
be taken. A suggestion book may be kept in the library to express user’s views.

Step 9: Planning for the Future

Library is a growing organism. As the technology changes in the field of information storage
and retrieval, the user needs are also changing. There should be planned Library programmes
which will incorporate the future needs.

Self Assessment

State whether the following statements are true or false:
7. Statistics were studied to find a true picture of the current status of the library and identified
the problems facing by the users.
8. The process of converting the bibliographic or documentary details of the existing stock
into the machine-readable form is known as Circulation control.
9. The Online Public Access Catalogue is the user interface of the automated system.

1.4 Challenges in Library Automation

There is the challenge of optimally utilizing small fund allocation to address wide segments of
the automation areas. The committee handling the project had to accommodate areas not
budgeted for and yet not compromising quality job delivery. Library automation is a great
enhancement for your library, but it comes with plenty of headaches. It is a time-consuming
process. Libraries may struggle to have the proper technology for the automation. Staff and
patrons may need a lot of training to properly operate the new system. Once the automation is
completed, users will recognize many benefits.

Time: Library automation takes time. Before the automation takes place, libraries should
take time to assess these elements: budget, demographics of the patrons, library

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