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From LAMP to Koha: case study of the Pakistan legislative assembly libraries F Shafi-Ullah, S Qutab Program: electronic library and information systems 46 (1), 43-55
Abstract
Purpose – This paper aims to elaborate the library data migration process from LAMP (Library Automation Management Program) to the open source software Koha's (2.2.8 Windows based) Pakistani flavour PakLAG-Koha in six legislative assembly libraries of Pakistan.
Design/methodology/approach – The paper explains different steps of the data migration from one ILM (integrated library management system) to a new ILM in six libraries over the course of three months. Qualitative research methods, i.e. direct observation and interviews, were adopted for finding the problems and solutions of the delayed project. Training and support was offered by a local volunteer group (PakLAG). One of the authors of the paper presented first-hand experience of being a consultant of this project. The study and results are the author's own reflections and first-hand experiences, and hence results are based on direct observations.
Findings – The paper identifies several critical issues and their solutions concerning data migration within a local scenario as well as how local consultants and support groups are coping with these issues. It was noticed that the data migration can be done quickly if any support group is properly involved with the library staff.
Originality/value – This paper provides first-hand experience and success story of library data migration from DOS-based ILM to open source software. Process, tools and findings discussed in this paper are valuable for the libraries planning to convert non-MARC data to open source MARC-based software Koha.
... KOHA is currently maintained by a global network of software vendors and library innovation staff. This is living software that is updated on a daily basis by its global community (Shafi-Ullah and Qutab, 2012). According to Singh and Sanaman (2012), KOHA has won numerous awards, including the "Not for Profit section of the 2000 Interactive New Zealand award," the 3M award for "Innovation in Libraries" in 2000, the public organisation section of "Les Trophées du Libre" in 2003, and the "Use of IT in a Not-for-Profit Organization ComputerWorld Excellence Award" in 2002. ...
Despite its widespread use, KOHA is not without complications. Quality attributes such as functionality, maintainability, user friendliness, and overall performance were frequently identified as issues in empirical studies. While attempts were made to assess the KOHA's quality attributes, the coverage or scope of the assessment was limited to only a few attributes. Furthermore, the majority of these studies were descriptive in nature, with no theoretical model or framework as a foundation. Given this gap, a study was conducted to assess KOHA's quality rating and its relationship with overall performance satisfaction. Six research hypotheses were developed and tested in conjunction with an integrated theoretical framework that combined quality attributes and performance satisfaction. A survey using online questionnaire as the data collection technique was administered to librarians or other professionals involved in the implementation of KOHA systems in Pakistan. The study revealed that while quality attributes were not rated highly, they were found to have a significant impact on performance satisfaction. Specifically, functionality, efficiency, maintainability, portability, usability, and reliability are found to have joint influence on performance satisfaction. The findings have made an important contribution from both theoretical and practical perspectives.
... PakLAG was playing an important role in customizing and promoting PakLAG Koha, a customized version of Koha ILS, to meet the needs of libraries in Pakistan. PakLAG Koha received popularity in Pakistan due to availability of required features complemented by a highly networked team to provide support all over the country (Rehman et al., 2012;Shafi-Ullah & Qutab, 2012). ...
This study explored the status of library software being used in the libraries of higher education institutions (HEIs) of Pakistan. A quantitative survey method was used. The population of this study was central/main libraries of all HEIs of Pakistan recognized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC). A questionnaire was designed after review of literature to collect data. The questionnaire was sent to all head librarians. The findings reveal that majority of the libraries had started automation. The libraries of public and private sector institutions were not significantly different in automating their routines. The libraries were using a variety of software and Library Information Management System (LIMS), a free software was at the top in terms of number of users. Other popular software were WINISIS, Inmagic, Koha and VIRTUA. There were also examples of adoption of open source software. Majority of the libraries were doing automation in the absence of proper budget for software and allied activities. Similarly, libraries did not have up-gradation and training agreement with the software providers. The participant libraries reported the presence of cataloging, circulation, reports and OPAC modules in their software but most of the libraries did not mention the availability of modules like acquisition, serial and webopac. Software used by the libraries did not have national language support in most of the cases and ability to support regional languages was also negligible.
The main objective of this study was to investigate the factors that influenced the adoption of Koha-integrated library software by librarians in Sri Lankan universities and libraries and to examine the challenges that were encountered during the implementation process. Additionally, the study aimed to evaluate the librarians' perceptions of Koha's performance in Sri Lankan libraries. To gather data, a survey was conducted among a purposive sample of 75 university librarians in Sri Lanka. The results showed that librarians were attracted to Koha due to its multilingual support, desirable features, and functionality, popularity among professionals, and provision of the MARC 21 standard for cataloging. However, during the implementation process, librarians faced several challenges, including a lack of knowledge about operating systems, the complex process of migrating data from legacy systems, a lack of technical skills, and the need for a highly networked and integrated environment. Despite these challenges, the study found that librarians were generally satisfied with Koha's performance, particularly in the areas of circulation, cataloging, OPAC, and patron modules. The findings of this study can provide valuable insights for librarians who are considering implementing or using Koha in their libraries.
Purpose
– The purpose of this study is to assess the current state of research on open source software (OSS) in the library context.
Design/methodology/approach
– This study employs a descriptive literature review. It categorizes library OSS research according to a classification scheme developed for the study, and analyzes the research based on year published, publication outlet, type of software discussed, type of article, type of library, and article topic.
Findings
– The authors found significant research attention devoted to open source repository applications, online public access catalog (OPAC) software, and integrated library systems (ILS). The majority of article types employed were case studies and discussion pieces. When articles were focused on a specific library, it was dominantly an academic library. Article topics centered around OSS adoption, development, provision of foundational or introductory information, and OSS performance.
Originality/value
– The authors are not aware of any other study that surveys and synthesizes the literature on OSS in the library context. Not only does this study provide a reference source and classification scheme for those conducting future research in this area to utilize, but it also identifies areas in this field that have received the most research attention, as well as areas that could benefit from future studies. This study will prove helpful to scholars looking for directions to take their research.
Purpose
– As libraries face budget cuts, open source integrated library systems are an attractive alternative to proprietary choices. Even though open source software is free to acquire, administrators must consider factors other than initial purchase price. This study aims to provide direction and context for libraries considering migration to an open source integrated library system.
Design/methodology/approach
– The comparison is qualitative and uses case studies, license agreements and copyright law, and user manuals and brochures. These comparisons divide into four areas: functions, adoption and technical support, usability, and economics.
Findings
– Major functions that libraries need in an integrated library system are available for open source software. There are no significant differences in usability between open source and proprietary integrated library systems. Internal IT provides a significant role in open source adoption. The relatively new type of open source software licensing may cause confusion for libraries and software developers.
Originality/value
– This study considers initial migrations to open source integrated library systems as a key component in overall software adoption. The study qualitatively examines the migration process comparing extant case studies. In addition, the examination of licensing agreements and copyright as well as a comparative review of essential functions are provided.
This paper presents an overview of the strategy, volunteer initiatives, achievements and innovative approach of Pakistan Library Automation Group (PakLAG) adopted to promote the use of ICTs Pakistani libraries through development and distribution of free and open source solutions according to the needs of the local libraries and their users.
Describes the current status of the use of computers in Pakistani libraries. Discusses the problems faced by librarians and information specialists in automating their libraries. Reviews internationally accepted database management systems mostly used in library housekeeping routines in Pakistan. Also introduces locally developed library packages. Gives a brief account of training facilities in library software offered by library schools and professional associations in the country, particularly the Pakistan Library Association.
The use of computers in libraries in Pakistan is expected to increase as the government realizes the possibilities of new information technology. Outlines the basic elements of the computerization of library operations and discusses the problems of using and developing library software in Pakistan. Libraries have automated individually without exchanging experience; most libraries cannot afford library automation, and librarians are not trained in library automation. Although foreign software is not suitable for Pakistan's libraries, some foreign software is being used, including: dBase III+ and IV; Foxpro; INMAGIC; Mini-micro CDS/ISIS; MINISIS; and Sci-Mate. Attempts have been made to develop library applications software in Pakistan. The most successful has been the Library Automation and Management Program (LAMP), developed by the Netherlands Library Development Project-Pakistan using CDS/ISIS. Recommends that a National Centre for Library Software Development be established and a MARC format for Pakistan should be developed. Library software should be developed to deal with materials in local languages.
The paper presents the results of a survey on the usefulness of the services offered by Pakistan Library Automation Group (PakLAG). A questionnaire was distributed to participants (n=207), who included LIS practitioners, faculty, and students. Most respondents found PakLAG services very useful for their work. They praised the PakLAG's efforts to help the library community in using ICTs and gave many suggestions to improve services.
The paper describes the features of an integrated library software developed in Pakistan under a project funded by the Netherlands. The software, called LAMP, has been developed to cater to library automation needs of developing countries and is based on CDS/ISIS. This paper gives some suggestions to develop a marketing plan for LAMP. It analyses the market situation, divides market into segments, presents SWOT analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats), and suggests a market mix (product, price, place and promotion) for marketing of the software in Pakistan as well as in other developing countries.
This paper is a case study of the Pakistan Library Automation Group, formed in October 2000 by volunteers in library and information science and computer science in Pakistan. The group's mission was to promote the use of ICT in Pakistani libraries with virtually no financial support. The achievements of the group during 6 years include: PakLAG Website; Automation of libraries with Library Information Management System (LIMS); Multilingual Web OPAC; Searching interface of National Digital Library; Online directory of LIS professionals; Publications program; Pak-LIS News; E-mail discussion group; Online posting of job advertisements; Virtual library; Training in ICTs for library professionals; and free consultancy service in library automation. The group's future plans are also presented. The study concludes that, if some committed professionals present themselves for voluntary endeavors and plan to develop their nation without any material resources, they can play a significant role in the promotion of ICT in the libraries of a developing country.
Report on a survey of alumni of the Pakistan Library Association’s Computer Training Center in Lahore to determine the impact of the Certificate in Library Automation (CLA) on librarianship in Pakistan. The survey provided information on: the profile of the respondents; their participation in computer training before and after taking the CLA; the impact of their training on their success in job seeking; their access to and use of computers; their participation in library automation projects and other auto-mation related activities; and suggestions regarding further courses and the improvement of the Training Centre. The results showed that the courses were attended mainly by comparatively young professional librarians, most of whom were working in Lahore. Their computer training contributed a lot to their success in getting new jobs. Most of them had access to computer facilities in their offices and use them daily, and have participated significantly in automation activities in their libraries. Many also applied their computing knowledge in writing books, articles, delivering lectures and providing consultancy services. Many suggestions were made for improving the courses.
Describes the activities of the Netherlands Library Development Project (NLDP) for the promotion of information technology in Pakistan. During a period of five years, NLDP made great efforts in the fields of manpower training, hardware supply, software development, information networks, and curriculum development in Pakistan. It set up computer training centres for training librarians, introduced electronic mail and CD-ROM technology in Pakistani libraries, information centres and library schools, sponsored courses on library automation in Pakistan and sent librarians abroad for training. The project encouraged a group of librarians to work on information technology projects in the country, and suggested a framework for information networking in Pakistan.
Computer technology in libraries has revolutionised the concept of rapid and accurate information services. In Pakistan, though, computer technology is new and is being successfully introduced in all types of libraries and information centres. This article reviews the literature on the use of computers in Pakistan’s libraries. The literature includes monographs, journal articles, reports, etc. published inside and outside Pakistan, discussing information technology, specific library applications, the activities of individual libraries and automation education. The need for library automation and the problems faced by Pakistani professionals in this respect are also discussed.
Musharraf has become the first Pakistani leader in thirty years to dare to confront the country's Islamic extremists. But can he succeed in controlling the forces that helped create the Taliban in Afghanistan and fuelled the bitter conflict in Kashmir? Will his army and intelligence agencies be able to tame the radical elements that they created and sustained? In this history of Pakistan from 1947 to the present, Bennett Jones decribes the many fault lines in Pakistani society. He assesses the role of the nationalists in the provinces, the feudal landlords in the countryside, and the bureaucratic elite in Islamabad and analyses the complex relationships between religion, regional politics, and the armed forces. As a BBC correspondent in Pakistan between 1998 and 2001, Bennett Jones witnessed at first hand many of the events that brought General Musharraf to power. His book contains the first detailed accounts of the 1999 coup, the Kargil conflict, and how Pakistan came to test its nuclear bomb. It will be essential reading for anyone who wants to understand a country that was crucial to the expulsion of Soviet forces from Afghanistan in the 1980s and which, after the 11 September 2001 attack, became a key coalition partner in America's "war against terrorism.".
This study explored the status of library software being used in the libraries of higher education institutions (HEIs) of Pakistan. A quantitative survey method was used. The population of this study was central/main libraries of all HEIs of Pakistan recognized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC). A questionnaire was designed after review of literature to collect data. The questionnaire was sent to all head librarians. The findings reveal that majority of the libraries had started automation. The libraries of public and private sector institutions were not significantly different in automating their routines. The libraries were using a variety of software and Library Information Management System (LIMS), a free software was at the top in terms of number of users. Other popular software were WINISIS, Inmagic, Koha and VIRTUA. There were also examples of adoption of open source software. Majority of the libraries were doing automation in the absence of proper budget for software and allied activities. Similarly, libraries did not have up-gradation and training agreement with the software providers. The participant libraries reported the presence of cataloging, circulation, reports and OPAC modules in their software but most of the libraries did not mention the availability of modules like acquisition, serial and webopac. Software used by the libraries did not have national language support in most of the cases and ability to support regional languages was also negligible.
This paper presents an overview of the strategy, volunteer initiatives, achievements and innovative approach of Pakistan Library Automation Group (PakLAG) adopted to promote the use of ICTs in Pakistani libraries through the development and distribution of free and open source solutions according to the needs of the local libraries and their users.
This paper is in answer to the call for new, innovative perspectives and methodologies for organizational research. Although the approach here falls within the subjective/idiographic/qualitative/insider set of methodologies rather than the objective/nomothetic/quantitative/outsider set, there is the potential to bridge the gap between the two sets. Coming largely from anthropology, the emic perspective is explained; the specific steps for ethnoscience analyses are summarized; and examples and implications are given.
This article attempts to discuss the concept of library automation, status of library automation in Bangladesh, Dhaka University Library and their Automation Project. The paper also presents the model of Dhaka University Library Automation Project (DULAP). Further, it discusses the online access and internet browsing system and how to use GoPAC. The study also has discussed the features and objectives of DULAP, requisite hardware and software, functions and activities of the program, facilities offered to users and tasks still to be accomplished.
Purpose
– The purpose of this study is to assess the current state of research on open source software (OSS) in the library context.
Design/methodology/approach
– This study employs a descriptive literature review. It categorizes library OSS research according to a classification scheme developed for the study, and analyzes the research based on year published, publication outlet, type of software discussed, type of article, type of library, and article topic.
Findings
– The authors found significant research attention devoted to open source repository applications, online public access catalog (OPAC) software, and integrated library systems (ILS). The majority of article types employed were case studies and discussion pieces. When articles were focused on a specific library, it was dominantly an academic library. Article topics centered around OSS adoption, development, provision of foundational or introductory information, and OSS performance.
Originality/value
– The authors are not aware of any other study that surveys and synthesizes the literature on OSS in the library context. Not only does this study provide a reference source and classification scheme for those conducting future research in this area to utilize, but it also identifies areas in this field that have received the most research attention, as well as areas that could benefit from future studies. This study will prove helpful to scholars looking for directions to take their research.
Purpose
– As libraries face budget cuts, open source integrated library systems are an attractive alternative to proprietary choices. Even though open source software is free to acquire, administrators must consider factors other than initial purchase price. This study aims to provide direction and context for libraries considering migration to an open source integrated library system.
Design/methodology/approach
– The comparison is qualitative and uses case studies, license agreements and copyright law, and user manuals and brochures. These comparisons divide into four areas: functions, adoption and technical support, usability, and economics.
Findings
– Major functions that libraries need in an integrated library system are available for open source software. There are no significant differences in usability between open source and proprietary integrated library systems. Internal IT provides a significant role in open source adoption. The relatively new type of open source software licensing may cause confusion for libraries and software developers.
Originality/value
– This study considers initial migrations to open source integrated library systems as a key component in overall software adoption. The study qualitatively examines the migration process comparing extant case studies. In addition, the examination of licensing agreements and copyright as well as a comparative review of essential functions are provided.
Outlines the historical background to the use of computers for library automation in Sri Lanka with special emphasis on the use of CDS/ISIS. Describes the implementation of a prototype low-cost web-based library automation system as a solution to the information management problems in Sri Lankan libraries.
"In this graduate level text, Michael Myers brings a wealth of insight to the research process. Combining abstract and theoretical considerations with those of a practical nature, such as tips for interviewing or for the final stage of writing up, Myers establishes an expansive resource for those involved in qualitative research that will aid them from start to finish. In this book the reader will be provided with the resources to: Understand the underlying philosophies of qualitative research in business and management Be aware of a variety of qualitative research methods Gain insight into examples of the previous use of qualitative methods in business and managementAnalyze and critically evaluate research, including discussion of using qualitative data analysis softwareCarry out their own research in business and managementWrite up their research for publicationThis book will be an indispensable resource both to those just embarking on their research as well as existing researchers in business and management."--Publisher's website.
Many African countries are trying hard to catch up with the fast changes in information and communications. Some recent surveys and case studies reported in this paper show some encouraging efforts, which can be considered as the stepping stones; they also point out some problems that need to be sorted out in order to facilitate improvements. Reports on the developments of national and international electronic communication networks based on “store-and-forward” technology, as well as connectivity to the Internet, indicate fast changes in electronic communication in Africa. Recent measures taken by international organizations and donor agencies to change the face of Africa's information and communication scenario are quite encouraging.
This paper discusses the present scenario of automation activities of university libraries in Kerala. The survey findings mainly cover various aspects of library automation such as information technology infrastructure, in-house activities, information services and their usage, manpower development, and budget. The paper briefly describes the role of INFLIBNET Centre in accelerating the automation activities of university libraries, especially in the context of the recently introduced UGC-Infonet programme. The problems encountered in this process are identified and possible suggestions are stated.
Library automation, in rudimentary form, began in the late 1960s and since 1990 has been the main focus of Pakistani librarianship. The generous financial assistance provided by the Netherlands Library Development Project (Pakistan) further accelerated the pace in this regard. However, the libraries in Pakistan have not registered any significant progress. Automated systems are lacking in large university libraries, as well as in college and public libraries. The largest group using this technology is specialist libraries. These libraries use automation primarily for a few selected operations. Some private sector universities have taken steps towards the planning and implementation of integrated library systems, but these are still in the trial stages. The National Library in Pakistan has also just made similar steps. The UNESCO sponsored CDS/ISIS is the most commonly used software; other popular packages used include ORACLE and INMAGIC. Some indigenous systems have also been developed, but without much success. IBM 386 and IBM 486 compatibles are used by the vast majority of libraries. Computer application education is yet to be introduced to schools by the country's library. The major constraints on library automation include: absence of planning, non-availability of software, import restriction on choice of hardware, lack of competent manpower, non existence of standard, absence of co-operation etc.
Pakistan’s parliamentary libraries reflect the challenges that the democratic institutions they serve have faced since independence in 1947. This article provides a historical context to the development of the bicameral parliament in Pakistan and four provincial assemblies. It describes the founding and development of parliamentary library and research services in that context and presents some of the newest innovations and reforms that the institutions have initiated in recent years. published or submitted for publication
The major activites of the different categories of Indian libraries are mainly routine work, such as acquisition, circulation, management, processing, reference and bibliographic service, periodical holdings, information retrieval, inventory, and so on. The services and techniques utilized in the different libraries, however, tend to make these activities very cumbersome and slow. The acquisitions of most libraries are done independently, and involve unnecessary duplication of work and lengthy procedures. Cataloging and classification methods differ from one library to another and are generally time-consuming and labor-oriented. This is very confusing for the users as they must thus switch from one classification and cataloging system to another when using more than one library. There is also a lack of bibliographic control at the national level. The Indian National Bibliography suffers from a large time lag. Almost all library activities involve long hours of manual work, tending to make library service very unpopular. Therefore, users still cannot envisage a librarian as a giver of information but consider him or her a custodian of books. In order to improve the services of libraries, application of newer methods, such as information, computer and communication technologies, will be needed. I am only concerned here with computer applications in libraries and believe that for efficient functioning of our library systems, we will need automated services at some point. But serious thought must first be given to which areas will be automated, while keeping in mind the national need. published or submitted for publication
Pakistan came into being on August 14, 1947 as a result of the partition of British India. On its east and southeast lies India, on the north and northwest is Afghanistan, to the west is Iran, and toward the south is the Arabian Sea. Pakistan shares a common border with China. According to the 1998 Census, its population included 135 million citizens and estimates suggest that number increased to 145 million by 2003. Two-thirds of the population live in rural areas, and engage in agriculture as the main source of livelihood. The majority of the population is composed of Muslims; the remaining are Hindus, Christians, and Parsees. About twenty languages are spoken in Pakistan. Urdu is the national language of the country, but English continues to be used for education, commercial, and other official purposes. Pakistan’s literacy rate was 47 percent in 1998. Politically, Pakistan is a federation of four provinces (Punjab, Sindh, Northwest Frontier Province, and Balochistan). Administratively, the provinces are comprised of districts, which are divided into small subdivisions (Tehsils). These are further divided into union councils.
The history of compilation of bibliography and index in Pakistan dates back to 1949. The first individual attempt was made by an eminent bibliographer Mr. A. R. Ghani. He compiled a comprehensive bibliography entitled “Pakistan: a select bibliography” published by the Association for the Advancement of Science in 1952. The bibliography contained 900 references to books, reports, government publications and periodical articles published in English on Pakistan. The Pakistan Bibliographical Working Group (PBWG) emerged in May 1950 on the recommendation of the International Conference on the Improvement of Bibliographical Sources, convened by the UNESCO in 1950 held at Paris. Mr. Fazal Elahi represented Pakistan in this conference. In fact the Group has the distinction of being the first professional organization to be formed at the national level, with the support of the UNESCO and on the enforcement of the government of Pakistan. The Group has a number of important bibliographies and indexes to its credit by library stalwarts like Prof. Dr. Abdul Moid, Fazal Elahi, S. V. Hussain and Akhtar H. Siddiqui. The Group published “A Guide to Works of Reference Published in Pakistan” and “A Guide to Periodicals and Newspapers of Pakistan”, both were published in 1953 with the assistance of UNESCO. Another important source published by the Group was “Union Catalogue of Periodicals in Social Sciences: held by the libraries in Pakistan” compiled by Fazal Elahi and Akhtar H. Siddiqui. The most significant contribution of the Group in the development and promotion of bibliographical activities in the country is the compilation of “Retrospective National Bibliography of Pakistan” covering the period from 1947 to 1961. In recent years the Group has published an index of an important professional journal entitled “Cumulative Index of Pakistan Library Review (PLR): 1958-1969” compiled by R. A. Samdani.
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