In this post we will be looking at the meaning of library management system, functions, features, types and components, importance and advantages of library management system.
INTRODUCTION.
A library management system is an example of an information system. An information system, whether it is computerized or not, is a system that represents objects in a physical system, for example, information resources in a library collection. The catalogue discussed in the last chapter is a system that represents the actual information resources of a library, whether that representation consists of marks on a card, marks on a microfiche sheet or data stored in a computer. The term ‘library management system’ is the one most commonly used by librarians and system vendors to describe the systems that perform acquisition, cataloguing and circulation functions. It has generally replaced earlier terms, such as ‘library housekeeping system’ which used to be in common use in the British literature and indicated that this kind of system is used to handle a library’s day-to-day transactions.
WHAT IS LIBRARY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM?
A library management system is software that is designed to manage all the functions of a library. It helps librarian to maintain the database of new books and the books that are borrowed by members along with their due dates. This system completely automates all your library’s activities. A library management system is used to maintain library records. It tracks the records of the number of books in the library, how many books are issued, or how many books have been returned or renewed or late fine charges, etc. You can find books in an instant, issue/reissue books quickly, and manage all the data efficiently and orderly using this system. The purpose of a library management system is to provide instant and accurate data regarding any type of book, thereby saving a lot of time and effort.
FUNCTIONS OF LIBRARY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM.
The main functions of the library management system are to realize the automation of the management of library borrowing and return of books the timely addition and destruction of books and the update of users and book information. Around these main functions, this system involves the following core functions such as:
- Borrowing management
- Return management
- Library management
- Member management.
- Book information management
- Query function
FEATURES OF LIBRARY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM. Library Management System has been intended to automate, oversee and care for the general handling of even enormous scale libraries. It oversees Book Issues, Returns, Magazine/Newspaper Subscriptions, Calculating/Managing Fine and Balances of installments due from Members, creating different Reports for Record-Keeping and Review purposes, as per end client prerequisites. The following features are as follows:
- Can be scalable to Windows, Linux and Mac OS platform.
- Scan and print your own barcodes.
- Full catalog, circulation and acquisitions system for library stock management.
- Web based OPAC (Online Public Access Catalog) system
- Simple, clear search interface for all users
- Multilingual and multi-user support
- Export and import records
- Easy way to enter new books
- Keep record of complete info of a book like title, author name, publisher name etc.
- Easy way to check-in and check-out
- It is user-friendly software
- Keep record of different categories
- Classify the books subject wise
- Easy to maintain database
- It is cost effective
TYPES AND COMPONENTS OF LIBRARY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM.
There’s basic operating system, document processing programs, Library Management Software (LMS) and Digital Library software. Some commonly used LMS Software are – SURPASS, Lucidea Integrated Library Systems, Koha ILS, L4U, OPALS, Destiny Library Manager, Handy Library Manager, Insignia Library System, Access-It Library, MODERN LIB, Atriuum, LIBRARIAN, Reader ware, etc. In order to maintain library management software, you will have the following set of components. These components are efficient to manage library operations accurately.
Admin login: the administrators can access the entire functionality of the system via this component. The admin can maintain the records and track them as per necessity. Also, the admin can add or remove entries into the system respectively.
User login section: The students who want to access library materials, need to do registration first. The registration allows for maintaining records accurately. After registering, they can check out and check in the library material.
Add and update books: The admin can add new books or other materials to the system with the essential details. Thus, the librarian can maintain the system effectively.
Search option: all users of the system, including admin can search for library materials. Admin and students can search for books by entering the name of the book.
View order status: the admin can view rented books and their due date. Also, the other details like student’s details who has rented a book will be available in this module.
Check-in and check-out: this are the distinct component of a library management system where a student can check in, and check out the library souvenirs electronically. This facility helps to save the time of both; students, and the librarian.
Fine calculator: The students and admin can view the issued materials with their due date. And, if any book is overdue, the system will allow calculating fine for the same.
IMPORTANCE OF LIBRARY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM.
- Library management systems facilitate the administrators to keep an eye on the library department’s all functions.
- It enables librarians and users to save time on daunting tasks and enhances efficiency.
- It helps the school management to follow the work outline and fineness of different librarian’s capabilities.
- The administrators get an opportunity to know how well-maintained the record of issued books and collection is.
- The librarian and the administration department can access various reports to implement new improvements.
- Librarians can get relief from performing manual library management operations that are responsible for making errors more often.
ADVANTAGES OF LIBRARY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM.
- Reduces the tedious approach to maintaining library records through manual paper works and specify accurate information of books that have been issued or added automatically.
- Simple and Easy to operate, saves librarian time, and makes eligible to perform other important work.
- Remotely accessible via mobile
- Reduces overheads and library’s operating cost
- Students can easily search and find the books and issue them accordingly.
- Increase librarian’s efficiencies
- Mobile access, anytime, anywhere
- Search, add, update, and view library materials online
- Helps to manage library functions constructively
- Reduce library’s operating cost
- Customized reports for better management
- Remove manual processes to issue books and maintain records
CONCLUTION: Thus, the efficient library management software is essential to run smart school functions, and maintain accurate data of a library. School Software Pro offers a smart school application for schools, colleges, and coaching centers to systematically manage library operations. Get one for your institute and match up with the latest school trends. Get in touch with us to know more details about how the library management system accommodates your educational institute.