Page 49 - DLIS007_LIBRARY AUTOMATION

Library Automation

Notes 3.2 Basic Requirements for Library Automation Software Packages

A library automation package or LMS should fulfil the expectations of library users, staff and
authority in terms of delivery, installation, implementation, maintenance, data conversion,
services, utilities, training and other essential requirements for an integrated library
management system. Libraries would like to develop or purchase a LMS that provides the most
forward-looking, flexible, extensible and cost efficient solution. The basic requirements for any
modern library automation package to satisfy such expectations may be studied under two
broad categories – general system requirements and functional requirements.

3.2.1 General System Requirements

These are applicable to all modules of any modern LMS and should include but not limited to
the following features:
1. The LMS must be fully integrated, using a single, common catalogue database for all
operations and a common operator interface across all modules.

2. The LMS should have capability of supporting multiple branches or independent libraries,
with one central computer configuration sharing a common database.
3. The LMS must allow unlimited number of records, users and organization specific
parameters (e.g. loan period rules, fine calculation criteria, hold parameters etc.).
4. The package should include following fully developed and operational facilities at multiple
customer sites:
Bibliographic and inventory control
Authority control

Public access catalogue
Web catalogue interface
Information gateway (telnet, www, z39.50, proxy server, external access, customised
web portal)

Acquisition management
Serials control
Electronic data interchange (EDI)
Reservation and materials booking

Circulation control
Customised generation of reports and usage statistics
One step administrative parameters setting

Z39.50 server (minimum version 3 and path profile level complaint)
Z39.50 OPAC and staff client
Z39.50 copy cataloguing client
Marc 21 bibliographic and authority record import/export utility
Outreach services

Digital media archive system

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