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Unlocking the Unlimited Potentials of Koha OSS/ILS for Library House-Keeping Functions: A Global View
Abstract
Drawing praxis from Bowen University, Nigeria and other libraries worldwide, the chapter unveils the limitless capabilities of Koha ILS to successfully manage core library house-keeping functions—cataloging, acquisitions, circulation control, patrons' management, OPAC, serials, and report generation—in one seamless whole. Web-based features like its flexibility, adaptability, interoperability, MARC, Z39.50, patrons' ability for online logging in, registration, renewal, and many more were revealed. Also, reasons for its global adoptability, benefits, likely challenges, and solutions from practitioners were also highlighted. The chapter concludes that despite the puny but eventually surmounted challenges, Koha holds unlimited potential for libraries of any shape/size by just garnering from the experiences of subsisting users of the software globally.
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The purpose of the paper is to share the Bowen University Library experiences running and administering Koha Integrated Library System (ILS) for about nine years. The paper describes the application of the software by the staff of Bowen University Library. The authors perused the library annual reports and the quarterly reports of activities as kept by sections and units. Clarification was also sought from the librarians, who daily run and maintain Koha software to gain an understanding of challenges they face and how these challenges were resolved. The users noted that Koha ILS helped tremendously with the library technical processes and services, and that the challenges encountered and their successful resolutions had also helped in the effective delivery of the library and information services and the development of staff IT skills. The authors noted from practical perspective that these experiences were useful for people who were evaluating open source ILSs, those already running ILSs, as well as those who were in the process of adoption. Unfortunately, to the knowledge of the authors, there has not been much of any existing literature on practical experiences of running and maintaining an open source integrated library system such as the Koha. The paper therefore could thus contribute to knowledge in this domain of ILS. © 2016, Archlib and Information Services Ltd. All rights reserved.
Purpose: Advancement in information and communications technology has obligated libraries to embrace automation of library processes. University libraries in Nigeria are in different stages of library automation using different Integrated Library Management System (ILS) which could be either Open ILS or Propriety ILS .Library registrations in most universities in Nigeria is still done manually irrespective of the category of ILS being deployed, thus, the generation of statistics of library usage has always been problematic. This paper evaluates the adoption of KOHA ILS for library online registration at the University of Jos Nigeria. Methodology: The paper discussed University of Jos automation processes using KOHA ILS, efficient and effective migration strategies from Integrated Technical Services (ITS) for windows and Virtua ILS's to KOHA ILS. The study adopted survey design. Questionnaire were used as instrument for data gathering to elicit for ease of use of KOHA ILS for online library registration at the library. The experience of a total of 24 library staff who were involved in the 2014/ 2015 registration exercise was enumerated. Findings: The paper shows that KOHA was selected at the library out of necessity and not fully planned for. It further enumerated the prospects and challenges faced by the staff involved in the registration processes. The survey also found that Open Source ILSs are more cost effective than proprietary ILSs. The research enumerated overall staff satisfaction for the use of KOHA ILS. Results: The use of KOHA ILS will solve the problem of manual processing and untimely statistics generation. Online registration database gives access to easy and accessible information retrieval in an efficient and effective manner. Conclusion and recommendation: The migration to KOHA Open access ILS from ITS and Virtua Proprietary ILSs at University of Jos is an astounding experience for the staff of the library and the University community at large. Open access ILS is more cost effective and aids ease of access to information. It was recommended that the software should be moved to the Wide Area Network (WAN) to ease congestion and encourage self-registration from library users.
Asked to convert a faculty-created Microsoft Word document of biblical references found within popular films into a searchable database for scholars, the Albright College library staff helped create a multi-access database called Bible in the Reel World. The database relied on student workers for inputting data, used MARC standard formatting for future portability, and encouraged interactive feedback, enabling scholars to submit comments and suggest additional films and references. Using the open source integrated library system Koha, MarcEdit software, and free record exporting from IMDb, library staff created a fully-searchable database for researchers and scholars to examine the use of scripture in popular film.
A variety of open source library management software is (LMS) available in the library arena. However, only a few of them are fully compatible with latest technological changes and support maximum technological features. The work focuses only on those open source LMS packages which are available on the web for download freely and still releasing their updated versions and aims to discuss the OPAC module in those packages to trace the features and characteristics with special reference to searching and online services provided through web interface of the said packages. The comparative study is made from the review of earlier studies, information from the web-pages of the LMS packages and hands-on practice in local installation done. The comparative study will be helpful for library and information professionals who are planning to automate their libraries with open source package and also planning to provide OPAC facility to their users for better use the library documents.
Many studies have been done on human-computer interaction (HCI), but there is a dearth of studies on the mandatory actual system use in Nigerian university libraries. The relationship between urces of computer self-efficacy and outcome expectancy on actual system use was assessed, based on social cognitive theory, by surveying mandatory use of KOHA version 3.0.1 integrated library management software. The questionnaire survey was conducted on 61 library personnel in 5 private Nigerian universities. Data were analyzed by multiple regression analysis and Pearson product moment correlation. The structural model accounted for 48% of variance in actual system use, 80% in computer self-efficacy, and 19% in outcome expectancy. This study suggests that usability, supportive management, and computer self-efficacy are important determinants of actual system use of KOHAsoftware. Self-efficacy had influence on outcome expectancy. The implication of applying the social cognitive theory to actual system use of KOHA software by library personnel is discussed.
Libraries around the world are using the technology in best possible ways to satisfy their users through efficient and effective library services. The paper aims to discuss the process of KOHA implementation in Government College University (GCU) Libraries Lahore, while replacing the Library Management Software (LMS) implemented in 1999. The article discusses the implementation of Koha in a narrative style. In first phase KOHA was installed on testing basis on one computer and its different modules were evaluated as per their functions in context of the requirements of GCU Libraries. After satisfactory results a journal was placed formally for notes taking purpose during the step by step process of KOHA implementation for the required results. On the basis of testing phase, the technical issues were addressed and Koha implementation strategy was chalked out, employed and resulted as the live server of KOHA. The study discussed the major technical problems that were encountered in the implementation of KOHA. The authors assume that other libraries who are implementing Koha also face such problems. However, these technicalities are not disclosed and remain unaddressed. The study addresses these technical issues and offers solutions. The study offers insight that is valuable for Pakistani librarians at large and other libraries in general which are in the process of implementing Koha for automation.
Open-source software abbreviated as OSS is computer software that is available with source code and is provided under a software license that permits users to study, change, and improve the software. For the commercial software the source code and certain other rights are normally reserved for copyright holders,i.e. the company who developes the software. A group of people in a collaborative manner often developes the Open source software, not under the roof of a large organization. This strategy makes open source software cheap, reliable and modifiable if needed. In this context we shall discuss mainly the features of Open Source Software, differences of open source and free software and open source software movement in Indian perspective.
This study examined the use of open source integrated library system in academic libraries in Nigeria, with the aim of highlighting the capabilities and potentials of open source software (Koha) and its practical importance to academic libraries across the globe. The study was guided by five objectives and five research questions. A descriptive survey design was adopted in this research, with population of twenty-five (25) staff selected randomly from 25 different higher institutions that uses open source software in Nigeria: 19 universities (federal, state and private), 4 polytechnics (federal and state) and 2 colleges of education. The instrument used to generate data is questionnaire and the data generated was analyzed using frequency tables and percentages. It was found that many libraries in Nigeria and across the globe have turned more and more to free and open source software. The major challenges confronting the libraries include: inadequate funding, inadequate managerial support, inadequate power supply, etc. The findings of this study will serve a very useful purpose for academic libraries in Nigeria in particular, and their counterparts across the globe in general. The flexibility and friendly nature of the software will also enable users maximize their gains in the search for information.
Automation of library services and the use of open source software are essential for efficiency and effectiveness and at a minimal cost, too. Library automation benefits both the library staff and the users as it reduces the level of job stress on the staff and enhances remote and timely provision of up-to-date information to the users. This literature based opinion paper majorly aimed to establish the relevance of using open source software in library automation. To achieve this goal, the paper was divided into subheadings that respectively highlighted the relevance of library automation, spelt out the salient issues to consider in library software selection, discussed the characteristics of OSS that qualify them to be effective library automation software, and enumerated and briefly discussed the various OSS available for integrated library management. Recommendations on the key factors that should be prioritized for the achievement of a successful automation of the library services with the open source software is equally made in the paper.
Open source has been the center of attention in the library world for the past several years. Koha and Evergreen are the two major open-source integrated library systems (ILSs), and they continue to grow in maturity and popularity. The question remains as to how much we have achieved in open-source development toward the next-generation catalog compared to commercial systems. Little has been written in the library literature to answer this question. This paper intends to answer this question by comparing the next-generation features of the OPACs of two open-source ILSs (Koha and Evergreen) and one proprietary ILS (Voyager's WebVoyage).
p>Interest in migrating to open source integrated library systems is continually growing in libraries. Along with the interest, lack of empirical research and evidence to compare the process of migration brings a lot of anxiety to the interested librarians. In this research, twenty librarians who have worked in libraries that migrated to open source ILS or are in the process of migrating were interviewed. The interviews focused on their experiences and the lessons learned in the process of migration. The results from the interviews are used to create guidelines/best practices for each stage of the adoption process of open source ILS. These guidelines will be helpful or librarians who want to research and/or adopt open source ILS.
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This descriptive survey study was conducted with the main objective of identifying the level of awareness, extent of use, challenges and prospects of the use of open source software in Nigerian libraries. Questionnaire was the main instrument used for data collection. The data collected was subjected to descriptive statistical analysis using simple percentages and frequency counts. The result of the study which listed 19 different OSS revealed that most librarians in Nigeria have limited awareness on the availability of the varying OSS hence, do not significantly utilize them in their libraries. Out of the 42 libraries involved in the study, only 7 are presently using CD/ISIS while 5 others utilize KOHA. The study also identified some inhibitors to include that the management does not see the use of the software in those sections as relevant (54.8%), fear of service support problems (64.3%), and unavailability of Internet access in the libraries to enable downloading of software 61.9%. Recommendations such as embracing the "Sister Libraries" programme, engaging in continued professional development, joining concerned software's user group and contacting colleagues who are knowledgeable about the software were made.
The paper describes how Knowledge Exchange and Information Centre (KEIC) of Mudra Institute of Communications, Ahmedabad makes the newspapers clippings accessible for its target audiences (users). The bibliographic information (title, author, newspaper's name, date, product category, brand name, and company name, etc.) as well as full text (down-loading from website of concerned newspaper) of the article is recorded in the newspaper module. The whole procedure is done in WINISIS software and then the data is converted/up-loaded in GENISIS software to make accessible the web-catalogue of newspaper clippings for its end-users. Over the period of time using CDS/ISIS software (DOS, windows, GENISIS versions) which type problems were faced and resolved, the merits and demerits of every version, etc., have been discussed in this paper. In the age of information technology, the IT professionals and other organisations are designing effective but very costly software. The small libraries don't have capacity to carry too much financial burden by purchasing these types of software. However they wish to get their libraries automated and make the resources available to their users by applying very cost-effective software. This paper describes how the CDS/ISIS software will become a boon for these types of information providers (libraries/information centres) and information receiver (users/clients). This paper focuses on every stage of evolution of CDS/ISIS and it's successful implication in KEIC.
This paper provides a comparative analysis of the functionality of three different Online Public Access Catalogues, i.e., LibSys, VTLS’s iPortal, and Troodon ILMS acquired by study university libraries in Delhi with the help of a specially designed evaluation checklist. The various features of the OPACs in seven university libraries (University of Delhi, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi Technological University, Jamia Millia Islamia, Indira Gandhi National Open University, and Jamia Hamdard University) are evaluated. The evaluation approach taken was similar to that of Margam and Aggarwal with minor modifications. It comprises 214 dichotomous questions with 145 features in 12 broad categories.
The study explored different features of OPACs, of which page layout is the highest scored feature and Web 2.0 based OPAC feature is the lowest. Location map and series hyperlinks, meta-search, comprehensive search limits in publisher and place of publication, spell check software facility and additional help to remote users, image of book covers, relevancy ranking, reviews, user-added tags, tagging, RSS feed from the search, citation creator, customer written reviews “email this link”, etc., are some of the features lacking in all the surveyed OPACs. The highest scored OPAC is the LibSys-based OPAC of Jamia Hamdard University with 61.68 per cent and LibSys of Jamia Milia Islamia is the lowest scored with 41.58 per cent. The findings of the study prove to be a useful source of information to librarians, especially university librarians who are planning to introduce OPACs and also for the software vendors who wish to improve the functionality of their OPACs.
Keywords - Online catalogues, OPAC, Evaluation, University libraries, Integrated library management systems, Delhi
Purpose
– Software has played a crucial role in the management of library operations. Nigerian university libraries are embarking on automation by adopting different library software but many fail due to the wrong selection of software and improper management of the automation project. The paper aims to examine the selection and use of KOHA software in two private Nigerian universities.
Design/methodology/approach
– Purposive sampling was used to select 255 respondents made up of two systems librarians, eight heads of library units and 245 faculty. Data were collected through questionnaire, interview and observation.
Findings
– KOHA was selected because of integration, ease of use, accessibility, flexibility and feasibility study was carried out. The software was not maximally used in both universities (RU: 49 percent, BU: 64.3 percent).
Originality/value
– This paper investigates the factors used for selection of the software, level of use and challenges to its use. It is relevant to university libraries because it emphasises the need to carry out in‐depth feasibility study before the adoption of software to increase the effectiveness of their libraries.
Purpose
– The study aimed to look at the library software in use in Nigerian university libraries, and the challenges and frustrations experienced in their automation projects.
Design/methodology/approach
– The study adopts a descriptive survey method and covers university libraries in Nigeria. A questionnaire was used to collect data from 32 university libraries in Nigeria.
Findings
– The study revealed that university libraries in Nigeria widely use library software such as KOHA, SLAM and VIRTUA for their library operations. Challenges such as lack of skilled manpower, lack of fund, absence of modern systems (computers) and erratic power supply were identified as the major problems university libraries in Nigeria encountered while using library software. Librarians recommended the use of KOHA, SLAM or VIRTUA library software for use by university libraries that are in search for library software to use.
Originality/value
– The findings of this study will provide useful information to librarians and library administrators in Nigeria and other developing countries who want to automate their library operations.
Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) movement has brought a series of alternative software solutions for almost all categories of software including Operating Systems, Database Systems, Web Servers, Programming Languages, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Graphics, Games, Networking, and System Administration.
FOSS Movement has got a major share in the market of software from its beginning. Libraries are the early institutions which adopted computer packages for management of information and automation of library procedures. FOSS Movement is very popular in libraries around the world. Libraries have been blessed with Free and Open Source Software including Integrated Library Software, Digital Library Management, Content Management, Inter-Library Loan Management, Document Delivery Services, and other web-based services around the world including developing as well as developed countries.
FOSS Movement in LIS Profession of Pakistan is not very old. It started in mid of the first decade of 21st century and started the journey slowly. But now after five to six years, it is getting popularity in all type of libraries in the country. The purpose of this study is to explore the current status of FOSS Movement in Pakistan and the efforts made by the individuals or LIS organizations to promote Free and Open Source Software in Pakistan. This paper has also suggested measures to be taken in future to promote FOSS movement.
The methodology of this study is based upon the literature review and interviews of some key persons involved in Free and Open Source Software in LIS in Pakistan have been conducted.
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to present an overview of the two open source (OS) integrated library systems (ILS) – Koha and ABCD (ISIS family), to compare their “next‐generation library catalog” functionalities, and to give comparison of other important features available through ILS modules.
Design/methodology/approach
Two open source ILSs, Koha and ABCD, were compared in‐depth according to their functionalities and characteristics. A checklist was created for each module: acquisition, cataloging, serials, patron management and circulation, reports and statistics, and administration. For an online catalog module, a separate checklist with “new generation catalog” characteristics was created. The authors also defined an additional set of criteria which could influence the decision process and selection of appropriate ILS like funding, metadata schema, preferred ILS functionalities, provided support, and the role of the IT department, and computer and network infrastructure in the library.
Findings
Evaluation of ILSs reveals that Koha has more functionalities than ABCD, especially those connected with the “next generation library catalog”. If a library is using UNIMARC or MARC21 format for bibliographic description and has a good IT support, Koha is an open source ILS with a wide community which has to be considered for implementation. ABCD has great metasearch possibilities and is worth considering by libraries using other or no metadata schemas or without IT support.
Research limitations/implications
The research was limited to two research libraries and their praxis and experiences. Further analysis can include other open source ILSs.
Practical implications
This study can help libraries preparing to migrate to open source ILS to choose an appropriate one.
Originality/value
This is the first comprehensive study conducted on Koha and ABCD comparing all modules in detail.
This paper appraised the implementation process of Koha Integrated Library Management Software (ILMS) at the Babcock University (B.U.) Library, Nigeria. The software installation, data entry and data migration were successfully done and usage of the software began instantly. This study adopted a survey design using questionnaire as the instrument for gathering of data. It enumerates the experiences of B.U. Library in the implementation of Koha ILS using a total of 17 librarians and 24 technical staff that were part of the implementation program to illicit information. It explains strategies towards efficient migration of data from X-Lib to Koha, and elements responsible for adequate utilization of ILS. Analysis of data was only on challenges to the implementation program and strategies for successful implementation of Koha. This research was a result of the experiences of B.U. Library documented to support libraries. The software continues to receive improvement and upgrade by the user community worldwide. However, this research only describes the progress made and challenges faced on the implementation from June 2010. This research established no major problem since the implementation of the software at Babcock University Library. Library staff and majority of the library users have commended the decision of the University Library for installing dynamic software like Koha. Finding on Table 1 revealed that erratic power supply and insufficient manpower were bane for the smooth running of the software. It was also established on table 2 that ILS be incorporated as a course to be taught in the department of Information Resources Management (IRM) of Babcock University in order to train people who will manage the software. Moreover, 100% of the respondents agreed that seminars and workshops be organized. In addition, an effective collaboration between the ICT unit and the University Library was also seen as an advantage. This work was based on facts and experiences gathered before and during the implementation period. It elaborates the basics and suggests steps toward successful implementation of ILS. It is intended to serve as stepping stone for libraries especially in Nigeria that are in dare need to implement automation software.
This book offers everything you need to know about selecting and implementing the best integrated library system (ILS) for your library, whether you purchase and install it yourself or hire a consultant to assist you.
This is the book you've been waiting for. Integrated Library Systems: Planning, Selecting, and Implementing is an all-inclusive guide to acquiring a new ILS. Detailed and practical, the book covers every step of the process, from cost-benefit analysis, to evaluating software, writing the request for proposal, and implementation and training.
You'll learn about different types of integrated library systems�standalone, turnkey, hosted, software-as-a-service (cloud computing), and open-source�and how to assess your facility and staff to find the best fit. The book also covers evaluation of software and hardware; third-party add-ons, such as RFID; and writing successful budget proposals and justification statements. There is even specific, headache-saving advice on working with sales reps, such as the warning not to ever accept the statement: ""The vendor will not be held accountable to the contents of the RFP."" Even if you're working with a consultant, this book will help you understand the process and make informed decisions.
If you would like to write for this, or any other Emerald publication, then please use our Emerald for Authors service information about how to choose which publication to write for and submission guidelines are available for all. Please visit www.emeraldinsight.com/authors for more information. About Emerald www.emeraldinsight.com Emerald is a global publisher linking research and practice to the benefit of society. The company manages a portfolio of more than 290 journals and over 2,350 books and book series volumes, as well as providing an extensive range of online products and additional customer resources and services. Emerald is both COUNTER 4 and TRANSFER compliant. The organization is a partner of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) and also works with Portico and the LOCKSS initiative for digital archive preservation. Abstract Purpose-The purpose of this paper is to explain how the author carried out the implementation of the Koha open-source integrated library system (ILS) at the Independent University Bangladesh (IUB) Library, stated how much easy it is to implement Koha in a library and encouraged library professionals to implement Koha in their libraries.
The paper showcases various library house-keeping reports that can be generated effortlessly using Koha ILS. Examples of reports generated in Bowen University Library include Circulation, Acquisitions and Cataloguing/Classification reports. Circulation activity reports like user registration, patron category, overdue payments, item issue, returns and renewals are showcased. Acquisition reports highlighted include acquisitions by purchase and donation, expenditure on acquisitions and also by branch libraries, additions to the library collection and the status of the library database as required. Cataloguing reports such as additions of items to the entire library network, total item count and summation of item types are also highlighted. The paper concludes by sensitising libraries using Koha ILS of the unlimited potentials of Koha ILS for reports generation.
ABSTRACT
The paper showcases various library house-keeping reports that can be generated effortlessly using Koha ILS. Examples of reports generated in Bowen University Library include Circulation,
Acquisitions and Cataloguing/Classification reports. Circulation activity reports like user reg�istration, patron category, overdue payments, item issue, returns and renewals are showcased.
Acquisition reports highlighted include acquisitions by purchase and donation, expenditure on acquisitions and also by branch libraries, additions to the library collection and the status of the library database as required. Cataloguing reports such as additions of items to the entire library network, total item count and summation of item types are also highlighted. The paper concludes by sensitising libraries using Koha ILS of the unlimited potentials of Koha ILS for
reports generation.
Keywords: Bowen University Library, Integrated Library Systems, Koha ILS, Koha Reports Module, Reports Generation
Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to analyze the various features and functions of Koha, Libsys, NewGenLib and Virtua with the help of specially designed evaluation checklist and rank them based on features/functions of integrated library management system (ILMS).
Design/methodology/approach
– The evaluation approach taken in this paper is similar to that of Singh and Sanaman (2012) and Madhusudhan and Shalini (2014) with minor modifications, comprising 306 features/functions and categorized as ten broad categories.
Findings
– The paper explores different features of open source (OS) and commercial ILMS, which reveals that Virtua got the highest total score of 218 (77.86 per cent), followed by Koha ILMS with 204 score (72.86 per cent). Interestingly, NewGenLib got the lowest total score, that is, 163 (58.21 per cent). ILMS under study are lagging behind in exploiting the full potential of the Web 2.0 features, including cloud computing features, and needs to be addressed in their future development.
Practical implications
– It is hoped that both the OS and commercial software will attend to the lacunae and soon develop fully functional Web 2.0/3.0 and cloud-based technologies.
Originality/value
– The findings of this paper will not only guide the librarians in the selection of a good ILMS, which can cater to the needs of their libraries, but also abreast the knowledge of evaluation of ILMS for the students of Library and Information Science. And the findings will help the ILMS vendors to know the limitations of their ILMS, so that they can overcome the limitations faced by users and improve their products.
An automated library environment is quite different from that of a library whose operations and services are still done manually. The paper shares Bowen University Library, Iwo, Nigeria automation experiences using Open Source Library Management Software, Koha. The paper explains the automation process such as choice of software, installation and configuration, training of staff and users, retrospective conversion, challenges and experience after automation. The paper carries out survey of library user satisfaction with the system. The result shows that users prefer the automated system to manual system. It also explains how automation has enhanced operations and provision of information services. The paper among others encourages libraries to consider the use of an open source software for their automation project, advises that they should be open to changes that ICT introduces to library profession, and settle the issue of regular power supply with management before embarking on automation project.
This study assessed software selection and seployment sractices for library cooperation and resource sharing among aacademic libraries in South-West Nigeria. The purposive sampling technique was adopted and data collection instruments were questionnaire and interview. All of the 39 universities in the South-West zone were chosen and copies of questionnaire were administered to a representative of each academic library. 37 questionnaires were received. The descriptive statistical method of analysis was used. It was discovered that there is no form of cooperation and resource sharing among the academic libraries presently. The study recommends that National Universities Commission (NUC) should make automation a requirement for all academic libraries in Nigeria and recommend particular software(s) for cooperation and resource sharing to be possible among academic libraries among others.10.14429/djlit.35.1.6885
Purpose
– This paper compares the technical support-related experiences with the expectations of librarians using open source Integrated Library Systems (ILS).
Design/methodology/approach
– A combination of surveys and triangulating interviews was conducted to obtain the results presented.
Findings
– The results of this study indicate that there are many channels of technical support available to librarians who use open source ILS. Also, these channels of technical support perform at acceptable levels according to the expectations of librarians using open source software.
Research limitations/implications
– The results presented in this study are self-reported expectations and experiences of librarians and not observed experiences.
Practical implications
– The results from this study will provide an insight to librarians contemplating adoption or migration to open source ILS. The results presented here will be useful in decision-making as well as developing a strategy for technical support based on the presented options.
Originality/value
– The interest in open source ILS has been observed and studied in the last decade, but the technical support of open source systems, which is a critical component of the adoption process, has not received much attention. This paper focuses specifically on the technical support for open source ILS and provides insight into the experiences of librarians.
Purpose
– Koha is an open‐source Integrated Library System (ILS) developed in New Zealand and deployed for the first time in January 2000 for the Horowhenua Library Trust. Koha is a fully‐fledged software with basic and advanced features. The purpose of this paper is to illustrate a case study of integration of a big Italian consortium specializing in ITC support for libraries and public administration, in the development community of an integrated library system, and to describe the characteristics of CILEA support for this programme.
Design/methodology/approach
– The paper describes the main Koha features and functions and what CILEA did in the development community in Italy.
Findings
– Koha is a very simple but complete ILS, to be used by libraries of every dimension and kind of specialization. CILEA worked to adapt Koha to Italian libraries and now it is a part of the library community.
Originality/value
– This paper shows how Koha has a strong and wide community of librarians and developers. In particular, it is shown to be suitable for all institutions wanting to automate their libraries using a system that allows complete control over data and over the software itself. The authors of this paper are interested in maximizing the diffusion of Koha.
Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to explain how the author carried out the implementation of the Koha open-source integrated library system (ILS) at the Independent University Bangladesh (IUB) Library, stated how much easy it is to implement Koha in a library and encouraged library professionals to implement Koha in their libraries.
Design/methodology/approach
– The paper describes the author’s practical experiences regarding implementation of the Koha open-source ILS.
Findings
– Koha has those functionalities which can fulfill the library automation need of the IUB Library. That is why Koha is selected. Other librarians can easily implement Koha in their libraries.
Practical implications
– This paper will help librarians to implement Koha in a practical way to their libraries. The author implemented Koha at the IUB Library within three months, and the author used migrated data from Computerized Documentation System/Integrated Set of Information System to MARC-21 for books and made new MARC-21 records for movies.
Originality/value
– The author is the youngest library professional who implemented Koha at a private university library in Bangladesh. This will influence librarians to learn Koha and implement it in their libraries.
Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to evaluate open source software (OSS) for digital libraries and collection management and to propose different utilization scenarios based on the characteristics of the tools.
Design/methodology/approach
– The tools are assessed on the basis of their technical features and options, the type of the content they manage, the support for common library operations such as cataloging and circulation, the searching support and the interoperability options. Then they are evaluated by users and finally a number of usage scenarios are analyzed based on the results of the evaluation.
Findings
– The basic findings of the study is that open source digital library and collection management tools offer advanced operations and support various metadata and interoperability protocols with easy and user-friendly interfaces. Most of the tools are extensively used under various settings and establishments already. Language support for the interfaces should be extended with more languages and some tools with limited operations should be improved to be of practical use.
Practical implications
– The findings of the paper could be used support the selection of specific open source tools for various types of establishments.
Originality/value
– The study reviews the characteristics of a few OSS for digital libraries and collection management and reveals their specific strengths and weaknesses. It also presents a number of realistic scenarios and proposes the usage of specific tools based on time, technology and staff constraints.
Purpose
– This paper aims to explain the circumstances, methods and outcomes of the New York University Health Sciences Libraries' (NYUHSL) migration from their previous Integrated Library System (ILS), Innovative Interfaces, Inc.'s Millennium, to the open‐source ILS Koha.
Design/methodology/approach
– Over the course of three months, the NYUHSL installed, tested, and configured Koha to match with its existing policies and procedures. Migration was performed at the close of the fiscal year, to reduce the amount of acquisitions data to migrate, as well as for contractual reasons. Training was purchased from a Koha support vendor, ByWater Solutions. After migrating, the staff of the NYUHSL identified areas of improvement for Koha, and began discussing how to implement enhancements.
Findings
– The paper identifies several areas of development for Koha, including electronic resource management, course reserves, and cataloging client enhancements. It proves that a migration from Millennium to Koha can be done very quickly, if the library is properly motivated.
Originality/value
– This paper provides libraries considering the move to open‐source with a real‐world success story, as well as many factors to consider. In particular, libraries considering the move from Millennium to Koha stand to benefit from the NYUHSL's experiences.
The scholarship of integration is concerned with making connections across scientific disciplines, placing the work of individual investigators and their specialty fields into a larger context, and educating nonspecialists. The authors focus their comments on the biomedical sciences, but observe that closer integration of the biomedical and behavioral sciences will be particularly crucial to advance understanding of the human brain. They observe that as biomedical sciences become more technologically sophisticated, progress is increasingly dependent on sciences such as physics, chemistry, engineering, and related fields. However, the scholarship of integration has been slower than other forms of scholarship to gain acceptance as an integral activity of the professoriate. The isolation of disciplines from one another, particularly at large universities, and the perception of interdisciplinary work as risky and professionally unrewarding are among the forces that may discourage integrative scholarship. In addition, a troubling disconnect exists between the scientific community and the larger public in the understanding of science. Leaders in academic medicine and science must develop strategies to move interdisciplinary work from the margins into the mainstream of academia. Solutions that have been proposed include creating new research entities and funding mechanisms dedicated to interdisciplinary work; reinvigorating the integrative role of the physician-scientist; and training specialists in translational research. The scientific community must also work to develop more effective means of communicating the importance of its work to the public.
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.
Purpose
– Despite its fast growth and penetration in all sectors, it has been noted that open source software (OSS) is yet to find its optimal place in libraries, particularly libraries in the developing countries. Lack of documented information on the experiences and use of open source integrated library system (ILS) is a major drawback, and so the need for this study. The proposed study aims to help to investigate and test usability and cost effectiveness of a typical OSS for ILS. It will involve deploying the software from installation, configuration to creating customized user interfaces and structures that are specific to the requirements of the library's parent organization. The cost and performance of the OSS will then be compared with that of a typical commercial based software with the same functionalities.
Design/methodology/approach
– A preliminary study has been conducted to collect data from libraries in the country through distribution of questionnaires to provide data for accurate analysis that will form the basis for recommendations. The target group includes library and IT personnel in the various institutions and the end-users within sample group. A case study is proposed to help establish OSS effectiveness in libraries. To test a typical OSS, parameters are to be drawn from two models – open source maturity model and business readiness rating.
Findings
– A casual observation of the Kenyan situation reveals that the majority of academic, public and research libraries depend on commercial, free or locally developed systems. This scenario may be attributed to lack of knowledge (or interest) in OSS alternatives and lack of sufficient technical expertise to support them. While there are quite a number of libraries and librarians worldwide that have shown a great interest in OSS, few library administrators have actually implemented OSS. Could this be due to fear of taking on the risks that may come with reliance on open source library automation systems? Is the low uptake due to lack of sufficient technical expertise in the libraries? The research outcomes will help formulate a model and guidelines to be used by systems librarians considering the use of OSS for library processes. Factors to be considered when deciding on OSS will be outlined.
Research limitations/implications
– This paper is of importance to library personnel in Kenya as it establishes the effectiveness of OSS, with the aim of empowering the library staff who have for a long time relied on their IT departments and vendors for systems installation and implementation.
Originality/value
– The study will result in a comprehensive evaluation of the economic and functional advantages of OSS as an alternative for the library in Kenya. Librarians involved in selection of software for their libraries will find this helpful when deciding on the type of software to select for their libraries. It will help to enlighten library professional about the value of OSS and how they can participate in the development of their own systems, instead of always relying on vendors.
Purpose
Libraries in Nigeria have had to face several challenges and constraints in the development of library automation systems. These challenges include poor information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure, poor funding, and poor ICT skills among library staff, as well as choosing appropriate software solutions. The introduction of open source software such as Koha is therefore a positive revolution in Libraries across Nigeria. The purpose of this paper is to make a strong case for the adoption of open source software in various libraries and information centres.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper discusses Adeyemi College of Education Library automation processes using the Koha Library Management Software. It highlights the strategy adopted, major automation areas, and various factors to be considered by librarians when developing automation processes for their libraries.
Findings
This paper shows that automation can improve the library's relevance to the academic community. It further reveals that library staff enjoy working in an automated environment and the patrons enjoy services rendered using an OPAC instead of a card catalogue.
Practical implications
Library automation will address the problem of manual processing of materials. It will further mean less drudgery, easy generation of records, space conservation, improvement of information services, and easy retrievals.
Originality/value
The major obstacle to library automation in Nigeria has been poor funding. This paper is an eye opener. Libraries now have the opportunities to use open source software instead of waiting to acquire software that costs so much and may discourage management from granting the request.
Purpose
There are many library automation packages available as open‐source software, comprising two modules: staff‐client module and online public access catalogue (OPAC). Although the OPAC of these library automation packages provides advanced features of searching and retrieval of bibliographic records, none of them facilitate full‐text searching. Most of the available open‐source digital library software facilitates indexing and searching of full‐text documents in different formats. This paper makes an effort to enable full‐text search features in the widely used open‐source library automation package Koha, by integrating it with two open‐source digital library software packages, Greenstone Digital Library Software (GSDL) and Fedora Generic Search Service (FGSS), independently.
Design/methodology/approach
The implementation is done by making use of the Search and Retrieval by URL (SRU) feature available in Koha, GSDL and FGSS. The full‐text documents are indexed both in Koha and GSDL and FGSS.
Findings
Full‐text searching capability in Koha is achieved by integrating either GSDL or FGSS into Koha and by passing an SRU request to GSDL or FGSS from Koha. The full‐text documents are indexed both in the library automation package (Koha) and digital library software (GSDL, FGSS)
Originality/value
This is the first implementation enabling the full‐text search feature in a library automation software by integrating it into digital library software.
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 study focused on the retrospective conversion experience of two Nigerian university libraries, comparing the experiences of University of Ibadan (UI) library card catalogue and Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) library, in terms of processes, approaches, financial/material, and human implications, as well as the problems and solutions, and evaluating effectiveness and efficiency of the OPAC system. The survey method was used to collect data. There were two questionnaires used in the study. One directed to the librarians and cataloguers. The second was directed to the library's users. The study found out that Kenneth Dike made use of shared RECON and data input manually, while Obafemi Awolowo University library used vendors/consultants and adopted both data entry manually and resource database. The study also revealed that the RECON process took reasonable amount of time, involved skilled manpower, and moderate cost. The study diagnosed some constraints inhibiting the two libraries RECON, including lack of funds, poor maintenance culture, lack of skilled staff, and infrastructural problems. Finally, the study showed that both UI and OAU libraries had made tremendous progress in RECON, with their OPAC systems were working effectively and efficiently.
Purpose – This paper aims to study the open source integrated library management systems, i.e. Koha and NewGenLib, to inform librarians about what considerations to make when choosing an open source integrated library management system (ILMS) for their library.
Design/methodology/approach – The paper provides a detailed comparative analysis of both types of software, i.e. Koha (3.2.4) and NewGenLib (3.0), which are undertaken in the study. The methodology used for the study is “Evaluation method” which is followed with the help of structured evaluation checklist prepared after the thorough study of reference tools, reference statistical data available and related literature. Both types of software are evaluated and compared qualitatively and quantitatively.
Findings – Both types of software are web-enabled and support library automation. Koha has more specific characteristics of open source ILMS. Koha needs to upgrade, modify and improve its features. Koha requires very little hardware and is easy to install. Koha has advanced database features. NewGenLib has better functionality of modules than Koha. More formats and standards are supported by Koha. Digital library functionality of NewGenLib is more specific in terms of technology, data structure and programming. Also NewGenLib provides more user help and support whereas Koha provides more user-friendly downloads and a documentation facility. NewGenLib has more enhanced features which are significant for ILMS while selecting software for automation.
Practical implications – The comparative analysis of the open source ILMS done in the study will help librarians in making necessary considerations while choosing an open source software for the library.
Originality/value – The paper presents a detailed evaluative study carried out using a comprehensive checklist designed for the study.