Implement Library Automation software to effectively Manage, Track, and Perform All-day Library Operations with Ease!
If you had asked this question a few years back —”What is the need for library automation?” The challenge of controlling the expanding amount of content that is published in a variety of formats, bought by libraries, and distributed.
Collecting and storing the expanding body of literature proved difficult for every library. It was accessible in a number of formats, so the libraries had to buy technology to use it. The staff of the library used to spend more time performing routine duties and less time interacting with customers. At the same time, user preferences, needs, and expectations expanded, making it difficult for the library to swiftly meet them. As a result, there was a quick need to widely distribute the material.
But asking this question today is pointless! No library can afford to operate without automation in light of the altered information landscape. Modern libraries need library automation to provide quick and easy access to literature. Why?
- For Information Explosion (Growth of documents)
- Availability of new techniques and technologies
- To save the time of the reader
- To have better control over the collection and avoid duplication of work
- For elevated efficiency in various activities and services
- To maintain accuracy and promptness
- To share the resources through computer networks nationally as well as internationally
Libraries all across the world are starting to embrace library automation… a rising trend in library management.
Despite its growing importance, many people are still not familiar with the process of eLearning software development. This is where this blog comes in to give you a deep knowledge of what Library Automation is, its need in the market today, how to develop library automation software, and more.
Table of Contents
A Brief Dive into Library Automation
The term “library automation” describes the use of a computer to automate routine library tasks like cataloging and circulation. A library uses computers and other technology as part of the automation process to support its systems and services. The process of converting a library’s manual processes to computerized ones, such as moving from a card catalog to an OPAC or from manual circulation cards to an integrated library system, all comes under library automation.
Library automation software refers to a type of software used to manage the operations of a library, including cataloging, circulation, and patron management. With the advent of new technologies, library automation software has become an essential tool for librarians to efficiently manage their collections and serve their patrons.
The library’s everyday tasks and services can all be routinely automated:
- Serial Control- Placing orders, canceling, claiming, accounting, etc.
- Circulation- Lending, renewal, return, on hold, etc.
- Acquisition Process- Order, receive, return, cancel, etc.
- Cataloging- Resource storage, management, retrieval, etc.
- Automation- iOPAC, digital libraries, intranet access, and more.
Why Do You Need Library Automation?
Managing a library can be challenging as librarians are responsible for keeping the library stocked and orderly. They frequently have to deal with a lot of patron requests for information and materials, which can be exhausting. Several issues, including unorganized bookshelves, unfulfilled book orders, out-of-date references, and others, can arise in poorly run libraries.
Library Automation greatly aids in this. It takes the tedious work of maintaining and organizing a catalog of the hands of humans. Librarians have been able to handle a number of common issues, including heavy workloads, ineffective workflows, and declining patron service quality, with the aid of automated tools.
Library Automation has revolutionized the way libraries perform their essential functions. If you, too, want to implement library automation in your business, we are a click away. Get in touch with the Matellio team and discuss your requirements today!
In libraries, automation increases system efficiency as a whole. Compared to jobs that are handled manually, it is more dependable, and as technology advances, it gets better all the time. Following are the main goals of library automation in the quick-paced world of today.
- To make operations more effective.
- Improve the efficiency and accuracy of services.
- Make distant users and others more accessible.
- Meet all the needs of the library and its users that manual processes cannot fulfill.
- Better manage their digital and physical resources.
The need for automated information storage and retrieval has become necessary due to the exponential development of information, which has rendered manual systems obsolete. Only computers are capable of managing vast amounts of information effectively and efficiently, and they also have the added benefit of being highly accurate and timely, which increases the value of information.
Considerations for Developing Library Automation Software
Software for automating libraries should always include a few fundamental features. So, the following are some criteria you should consider when assessing library automation software.
Cloud-Based
Automation of your library with cloud technology entails having your library in the cloud, where you may take advantage of its features. We will help you build the cloud-based library Automation software to let you access data anywhere, anytime as per your needs.
Minimal Technical Knowledge Needed
Users with library automation software don’t need to be knowledgeable in technological matters. The software is simple to use, and becoming accustomed to the surroundings doesn’t take long. Although the software’s initial onboarding could call for more technical expertise- which you can take from us, once it’s up and running, any library team member should be able to use it.
User-Friendliness
The user-friendliness of library automation systems is one quality that sets them apart from one another. Here, UI (user interface) and UX (user experience) are relevant concepts. Customers and staff should both find the software to be very user-friendly.
Accessibility
Reliable library automation solutions shouldn’t be prohibitively expensive. There are free solutions, but they will be more difficult to use and lack many of the functions we’ve already covered. Software for automating libraries, like Surpass, is both inexpensive and feature-rich.
Benefits of Library Automation Software
Librarians may easily develop and store their library collections using the online cloud-based library automation software; making it possible for staff and students to interact and work together through a variety of channels.
Let’s go through some of the below benefits of implementing a library management system in your organization one by one:
Cataloging
It is the process of creating a record of library materials, including books, journals, and other resources. Library automation software allows your employees to easily catalog and classify materials based on various criteria, such as author, title, subject, and keyword.
Circulation
Circulation refers to the process of checking materials in and out of the library. Library automation software simplifies this process by providing a user-friendly interface that allows librarians to quickly and easily check materials in and out, renew materials, and manage holds.
Patron Management
Patron management involves keeping track of the library’s patrons and their borrowing history. Library automation software allows librarians to manage patron records, track borrowing history, and monitor fines and fees.
Search and Discovery
One of the most important features of library automation software is its ability to provide patrons with easy access to the library’s collections. With an intuitive search interface, patrons can easily search for materials by title, author, subject, or keyword.
Reporting
Library automation software provides librarians with detailed reports on circulation, cataloging, and patron data. These reports allow librarians to track library usage, identify trends, and make informed decisions about collection development and resource allocation.
Increased Productivity
With the help of library automation software, librarians may automate many of the labor-intensive and time-consuming operations associated with running a library, including cataloging and circulation. As a result, librarians may concentrate on more crucial responsibilities like serving customers and building collections because time is saved, and efficiency is increased.
Improved Accessibility
Library automation software makes it simple for users to browse the library’s holdings and locate the materials they require. This makes the library’s materials more accessible and raises customer satisfaction.
Increased Security
To safeguard the library’s holdings and user information, automation software for libraries offers additional security features including patron authentication.
Cost Savings
By eliminating the need for human labor and optimizing processes, library automation software can help libraries cut costs. Over time, this may save you a lot of money.
But, with so many perks stepping up the way, implementing library automation can be challenging, especially when you lack knowledge and resources. Hiring an enterprise software development company for your business can be beneficial in this case. Or you can further follow the below steps to develop successful software the way you need.
How to develop Library Automation Software?
Developing library automation software can be a complex and time-consuming process, but it can be broken down into a series of manageable steps. Here are the general steps involved in developing library automation software:
Define Requirements
The first step in developing library automation software is to define the requirements. This involves identifying the features and functionalities the software should have, based on the needs of the library and its patrons. The requirements should be clearly documented and prioritized. Discuss your idea, as in, why do you need software like that? It’s important to comprehend why you desire to go down this road.
Design
The next step is to design the software. This involves creating a detailed software architecture and developing a user interface that is intuitive and easy to use. The design should include all the requirements, as well as any technical constraints and limitations.
The foundation of the software system referred to as the product architecture, includes important components, a hosting network, and the program design with data modules. You may ensure that the software system satisfies current requirements while also considering and accommodating future requirements by carefully considering the product architecture.
It is advised to use staff augmentation services that can save time and expense of team build-up. It might be difficult to have the ideal team, but you should always base your choice on looking at the third party from many angles.
MVP
An effective way to figure out whether a product concept is viable is to use the Minimum Viable Product (MVP). Also, it is less expensive than generating a finished application right away. It is a streamlined type of software that enables you to quickly ascertain the opinions and feedback of the target audience and, depending on their feedback, make additional enhancements or make business decisions. Developing an MVP from a reputable MVP development company can be advantageous to any business as it gives an idea of the final product before actually launching it. The customer has the option to forego the MVP phase and immediately build the whole piece of software.
Start Development
It’s time to start with development after getting an idea of how and what is to be developed. In this process, you must have a technical specification discussion with the hired developer, or a company like us. The aspects of the project must be addressed precisely to ensure that the finished items operate without a hitch. There will be several stages to the development, and each stage needs to be planned. The project should be under your complete control before it even starts.
Test Your Software
Prior to being put on the market, the product must undergo rigorous quality control. This stage of software development differs from the others in that it may verify that the goals of the business were met during the development process and that the software’s code is error-free.
The testing procedures are performed by dedicated QA testers. Testing will be helpful in the future when your program is being maintained. After that, you should run all of your test cases to determine whether any other parts of the system were affected. If you devote more time and effort to this process, your final output will be of higher quality.
Maintenance
Once the software has been implemented, it requires ongoing maintenance and support. This includes fixing bugs, addressing technical issues, and making updates and improvements to the software based on feedback from users.
You can also reach out for staff-augmented services for easy library automation software development. For further needs, you can always contact us by requesting a quote.
Tools and Technologies
Having both a specialist understanding of library operations and programming skills is necessary to create library automation software. Some of the tools and technologies frequently utilized in creating library automation software are listed below:
Programming Languages: Java, Python, and C++ are the most popular ones for creating library automation software.
Database Management Systems: Library automation software often needs a database management system to store and manage data. The well-known database management systems are PostgreSQL, Oracle, and MySQL.
Integrated Development Environments (IDEs): An IDE is a piece of software that offers a complete environment for developing software. Eclipse, NetBeans, and IntelliJ IDEA are well-known IDEs for creating library automation applications.
Frameworks: Frameworks are pre-made software components to speed up development. Spring and hibernate are two common frameworks for creating library automation applications.
Although creating library automation software might be difficult and complex, it is necessary for modern libraries to effectively manage their collections and provide services to their users. It calls for a blend of technical proficiency, in-depth familiarity with library operations, and attention to user experience. It is feasible to create high-quality library automation software that satisfies the needs of libraries and their users by adhering to a well-defined procedure and utilizing the appropriate tools and technology.
Also Read: How to Develop School Management System Software?
Requirements
The fundamental conditions for any library automation Software, hardware, personnel, and money are all types of programmers. The discussion of these four fundamental elements follows.
Software
The type of software used for library automation has a big impact on how well it works. The following types of library software are some of the several that are offered.
- Custom-made or in-house-developed software.
- Software suites are created by for-profit institutions, agencies, and companies.
- Cooperative ventures are an item.
Hence, one of the most crucial functions of a library automation program is the selection of suitable library software. Each piece of software has benefits and drawbacks of its own. Yet, it should be chosen with the organization’s needs in mind.
Hardware
The second crucial component of a library automation program is hardware, for which a variety of goods and manufacturers are available. The software is mostly responsible for the hardware configuration.
There are two different kinds of PCs on the market, including:
- Branded computers from reputable companies like HP, Compaq, IBM, etc.
- The PC that was put together by commercial firms
Manpower
Each program, including the automation software for libraries, needs trained personnel to run. For the automation initiative to be successful, library professionals should receive the required training and computer literacy. At the time of software installation, certain software package vendors teach the workforce on-site. The OPAC system needs to be explained to the user as well.
Finance
Finance is a crucial element of any program. Any automation program’s budget must cover both the initial cost of installation and recurring expenses like stationery and maintenance.
Conclusion
Library automation software is an essential tool for modern libraries. With its powerful cataloging, circulation, and patron management features, it enables librarians to efficiently manage their collections and serve their patrons. The benefits of library automation software include improved efficiency, increased accessibility, enhanced security, and cost savings. If you own any such business and are looking to improve your business operations, consider investing in an automation software solution. Discuss with us today and we will guide you through the best possible path to fulfill all your automation demands.
