LUCKNOW PUBLIC SCHOOL

(C.P. SINGH FOUNDATION)

SESSION:2024-25
LIBRARY SCIENCE PROJECT
FILE ON
LIBRARY AUTOMATION : AN
INTRODUCTION
Submitted by: Submitted to:
Aradhya singh Mr. Brij Kishore
Class: 12th C Pandey
 TABLE OF CONTENT
• Introduction to library automation
pg no. 3-4
• Brief history pg no. 5-6
• Library automation in India pg no.
7-8
• Objectives and requirements pg no.
9-10
• Components of library automation
pg no. 11-12
• Issues and challenges in India pg no.
13-14
• Conclusion pg no. 15
• Reference pg no. 16-17
 INTRODUCTION
Library automation refers to the process of using
technology to manage library operations, such as
cataloging, circulation, and acquisition of materials.
This paper covers the automation concept, its
requirements, and various components that help
automate the library. The impact of ICT has changed
the library's operation and functionality from a fast
mode to a faster one. Library automation reduces
the monotony of repetitive manual efforts in library
routines by using library automation's collection,
storage, management, processing, preservation, and
communication, etc. Increase productivity in terms
of work and services.

Library automation refers to the use of computer-based

systems and software applications to manage various
library functions such as cataloging, circulation,
acquisition, and serials management. The primary goal of
library automation is to improve the efficiency and
effectiveness of library operations and services, and to
provide better access to information resources for library
users. In the past, libraries relied heavily on manual
processes for managing their collections and services,
such as card catalogs, manual circulation systems, and
paper-based record-keeping. However, with the advent of
new technologies and software solutions, libraries can
now automate many of these processes, leading to
increased productivity, accuracy, and user satisfaction.
Library automation systems typically include integrated
library management software, also known as an Integrated
Library System (ILS) or Library Management System
(LMS) that provides a range of functionalities such as
cataloging, circulation, acquisition, serials management,
and online public access catalog (OPAC). In addition to
these core functionalities, libraries can also integrate other
technologies such as Radio Frequency Identification
(RFID) systems, self-checkout machines, and electronic
resource management systems into their automation
infrastructure.
 Purpose and objectives

A brief history
The history of library automation dates back to the late
19th century, with the invention of the index card by
Melvil Dewey in 1876. Index cards allowed libraries to
organize and manage their collections more efficiently,
and this method was widely adopted by libraries across
the world. In the 1930s, punch card technology was
introduced, and libraries began using it to automate their
circulation systems. Punch cards were used to store patron
information and book circulation data, which made it
easier to track and manage library materials. The 1960s
saw the introduction of computer-based systems, which
allowed libraries to automate more complex functions
such as cataloging and acquisitions. These systems were
expensive and required significant technical expertise to
operate, so they were mostly limited to large research
libraries. In the 1980s, with the introduction of
microcomputers and commercial library automation
software, smaller libraries were able to adopt automation
technology as well. This led to a significant increase in
the number of libraries using automated systems, as well
as the functionality of these systems. The 1990s saw the
emergence of web-based library automation systems,
which made it easier for libraries to manage their
collections and services online. This also enabled libraries
to provide access to their collections and services to users
beyond their physical locations.
Library automation in india
Government of India directed the UGC to constitute a
committee to give recommendations for modernization of
university libraries and information centers. UGC
recommended in 1992 accommodation of a special paper
in Introduction of computers for library operations has
brought revolutionary changes and new dimension in the
whole library and information management in India. The
government of India has taken prime steps for
computerization automation and networking of library
and information centers. “A number of national regional
and city library and information networks such as
NICNET, INDONET, ADINET, CALIBNET, DELNET,
MALIBNET, ERNET etc. have emerged and found their
way”. In order join and effectively participate in these
library networks, library and Information centers will
have to be modernized and automated (Vashishith 1994).
After recommendation of a high powered committee,
UGC established INFLIBNET centre which is an inter-
university centre with its headquarter at Ahmadabad for
computerization automation and networking of university
libraries, HTs, RECs, libraries of institutions of national
importance for resource sharing among the libraries
(Sinha and Satpathy, 1998) till data 142 universities been
funded by INFLIBNET, to create IT conscious
environment in the libraries. Almost all university
libraries have taken steps to change over to automation.
Some of them have fully automated their activities and
some other has started automating their library activities.
“The prime minister of India has recently announced
special grants for the College libraries of North East India
and Jammu and Kashmir for purchasing SOUL software
for automating their libraries to cope with the changing
environment library schools in India have introduced
paper on computer application in libraries in their
academic programs”. “Besides this, different
organizations are organizing in-service training courses
on computer application to the working library
professionals. As manpower development is one of the
important factors in this changing over to automated
library system, training of personnel is a must ” Library
automation has been gaining momentum in India over the
past decade, with many libraries adopting automated
systems to improve their operations and services. Here are
some examples of library automation in India.
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)
Delhi Library: IIT Delhi Library is one of the most
advanced libraries in India, and it has implemented an
integrated library system (ILS) to manage its operations.
The ILS allows patrons to search the library's collection
online, reserve items, and renew loans. The library also
uses RFID technology to automate its circulation
processes.
National Law School of India University
(NLSIU) Library: NLSIU Library is a leading law
library in India and has implemented a library
management system to automate its operations. The
system includes features such as online catalog access,
circulation management, and inventory management
Indian Institute of Management (IIM)
Ahmadabad Library: IIM Ahmadabad Library has
implemented a library automation system to manage its
collection and services. The system includes features such
as online catalog access, circulation management, and
acquisitions management.
Define Objectives and Requirements: The first
step is to define the objectives and requirements of the
library automation project. This includes identifying the
current challenges faced by the library, such as manual
processes or outdated systems, and determining what
goals the library wishes to achieve through automation.
Select an Integrated Library System (ILS): An ILS is the
primary tool used in library automation. It allows the
library to manage all aspects of library operations,
including cataloging, circulation, acquisitions, and
reporting. The selection of an ILS should be based on the
library's needs, budget, and compatibility with existing
systems. Data Conversion: Once an ILS is selected, the
next step is to convert existing data into a digital format
that can be imported into the new system. This includes
data such as patron information, item information, and
circulation history.
Implementation and Configuration: After data
conversion, the ILS must be configured to meet the
library's specific needs. This includes setting up user
accounts, defining item types and circulation rules, and
configuring the system to handle fines and fees
Training and Support: Library staff should be
trained on how to use the new system to ensure successful
implementation. Ongoing support is also important to
address any issues that may arise and to provide updates
as needed.
Maintenance and Upgrades: Regular maintenance
and upgrades are necessary to keep the system running
smoothly and to ensure that it continues to meet the
library's needs.

Components of library automation

Library automation involves the use of technology to
manage library operations and services, and the following
are the requirements for library automation:
Integrated Library System (ILS): An ILS is the
core technology used in library automation. It is a
software platform that allows the library to manage all
aspects of library operations, including cataloging,
circulation, acquisitions, and reporting. The ILS must be
selected based on the library's needs, budget, and
compatibility with existing systems.
Hardware: Library automation requires hardware, such
as computers, scanners, RFID readers, and self-checkout
machines. The hardware should be selected based on the
library's needs and budget.
Network Infrastructure: The library should have a
robust network infrastructure to support the ILS and other
hardware devices. This includes internet connectivity,
routers, switches, and cabling.
Staff Training: Library staff should be trained on how
to use the new system to ensure successful
implementation. They should be trained on cataloging,
circulation, acquisitions, reporting, and troubleshooting
the system.
Technical Support: Technical support is important to
address any issues that may arise and to provide updates
as needed. Technical support can be provided by the
vendor or an in-house IT team.
Budget: Library automation requires a significant
financial investment, and the library should have a budget
to cover the cost of the ILS, hardware, network
infrastructure, data conversion, staff training, and
technical support
Library automation: Issues and challenges in
India
Issues and challenges in India Library automation is not
without its issues and challenges. Here are some of the
common challenges that libraries face when implementing
library automation:
Cost: Library automation requires a significant financial
investment in software, hardware, staff training, and
ongoing technical support. Libraries may face budget
constraints that limit their ability to invest in automation.
Data Conversion: Libraries must convert their
existing data into a digital format that can be imported
into the new system. This can be a time-consuming and
challenging process that requires careful planning and
attention to detail.
Staff Training: Library staff must be trained on how
to use the new system effectively. This can be a challenge
if staff members are resistant to change or if the library
has a high turnover rate.
Technical Issues: Technical issues can arise with the
system, hardware, or network infrastructure. Libraries
must have a plan in place to address these issues and
provide ongoing technical support.
Compatibility: Libraries must ensure that the new
system is compatible with existing systems, such as
databases, websites, and other software.
User Acceptance: Patrons may be resistant to using
the new system, or they may experience difficulty using
it. Libraries must ensure that the system is user-friendly
and that patrons are provided with adequate training and
support.
Security: Libraries must ensure that the new system is
secure and that patron information is protected from
unauthorized access.
 CONCLUSION
Today, library automation continues to evolve with the
introduction of new technologies such as cloud
computing, mobile devices, and artificial intelligence.
Libraries are also increasingly adopting open-source
automation software, which is more affordable and
customizable than proprietary software solutions.
Overall, library automation has come a long way over
the years, and it continues to play an important role in
the modernization of libraries and the improvement of
library services.

REFERENCES
• Bhanja, M, & Barik, N. (2009) library automation
problems and prospect paper presented at 10th
national convention of MANLIBNET organized by
KIIT university 2009
• Cholin, V.S. & Prakash, K. (1997, March). Status of
computerization and networking of university
libraries in India. Paper presented at 4th national
convention for automation of libraries in education
 and research of INFLIBNET on I.T. application
library Patiala.
• Gupta R.C., & Dass, Shir (1991) Computerization of
Serials control –a practical approach using a personal
computer. IASLIC Bulletin, 36, 17-22.
• Jharotia, Anil Kumar and Shukla, (2010)
Development of consortia and library networking in
India. National conference held at J K Business
School, Gurgoan 19 March 2010 (ISBN-
9788190938709) pp. 164-176.
• Khote, Namita B, and Brije, Sunil R. (2009)
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dental college library in Bangalore : status problem
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Dissemination of technology 5[2]: 77-85
• Ramesh, L.S.R.C.V., (1998). Technical problems in
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information sources and services in S. Nijalingappa
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• Basawaraj Malipatil (2017). Automation of
Engineering College Libraries in Kalaburagi and
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