Study on Problems Related to Library Automation In India |

ABSTRACT:

From the user point of view cataloguing system is mostimportant and also forms the base for other library activities. Keeping thesetwo points in view UNESCO developed a PC based software titled 'CDS/ISIS' andis available at a very nominal price to all the libraries in developing countries.For details librarians may contact ATIRA/NISSAT. This software can export datain ISO 2709 format and therefore at later stage if one decides to go in forsome other software, data transfer poses no problem. INFLIBNET has developedpublic domain library software titled 'ILMS' which is available on DOS AND UNIXplatform. With the recent government policy the PCs and other accessories havebecome affordable. The in-house training for handling the software is usuallyprovided by the developers and one can choose the software which can suit theirbudget. However, training for CDS/ISIS is available at INSDOC, INFLIBNET andDRTC. For further information on training programmes one can contact NISSAT.The training of library staff also depends on the level of automation. If onedecides to go only for cataloguing a minimum training of one or two week’sduration will enable the librarians to develop a database and maintain it. Withthis basic training one can easily transfer the same data on a server/main machinein a network environment. The job becomes easy as most of the institutions havesystems department with computer professionals maintaining the network.