Integrated Library System

An integrated library system is a computer-based system used to manage all the internal and external resources of the library. The integrated library system is used in many schools, colleges, institutions, universities, etc. It contains a wider scope than the language library system due to the advanced technology and functions.

They help the librarian in three ways:

• It increases the operational efficiency of the library.
• It provides access to the library’s collection.
• It provides access to external resources.

Integrated library system is also known as the library automation system. It is considered the nervous system of the library. It covers

• Cataloging – It is used for generating and managing MARC records like the list of subjects, author name, description, etc. This module allows the user to search online for the existing items of the library. This module is further divided into sub-modules.
  • Online searches
  • Print catalogs
  • Stock verification
  • Maintenance
  • Export / Import data
• Circulation – It keeps a record of all the books in the library and how they are circulated or issued to the students. It keeps a record of all the functions related to management, display, etc. in the library. It is further divided into sub-modules.
  • Serial circulation
  • Fine collection
  • Reports
  • Reservation
  • Member history
  • System set-up
  • Collection updates
• Acquisition system – It refers to ordering or purchasing the material for the library whether it is a book, journal, CD/DVDs, etc. It supports budget and expenditure monitoring also. It is further divided into sub-modules that are:
  • Enter title
  • Request to vendor
  • Update title details
  • Place order
  • Receiving of invoice
  • Payment request
  • Inquiries
  • Reports
  • Record keeping
• Serials – This system maintains a record of the budget sanctioned for serials under different categories. It is further divided into sub-modules that are:
  • New subscription
  • Renewal
  • Invoicing
  • Payment updates

These are the functions of the Integrated Library Management System which help in the better management of the library. It is the best library system in today’s modern era.

Top functions for integrated library system:

These are the functions of the Integrated Library Management System which help in the better management of the library. It is the best library system in today’s modern era.

• Database – It is a place where all the information belongs to the library is stored. It is an important function of integrated library system as it integrates all the data of the library into one system. This helps the librarian to keep track of the record.
• Patron Management – This enables you to add, delete and manage your library patrons.
• Staff interfaces – Modern library management system has a web-based interface that is accessible through a local network.
• OPAC (Online Public Access Catalogue) – In this interface, patrons can search for books and other items; make payment of fees and other things.
• Reports – The ability to run various reports on item movement. This software can generate the end number of reports depend upon the user which type of reports he wants to generate.

Integrated Library System is an advance library system used in schools, colleges, universities, etc. It has replaced the traditional library system where students have to find books from one shelf to another shelf.

The integrated library system supports all the activities related to library functions and user services. It provides an online interactive system for processing, storage, and retrieval. It also facilitates the interchange of information with other organizations.

The benefits of integrated library system are:

• Easy searching – It enables online searching of library material, which leads to fast and easy searching. Students prefer these types of digital libraries.
• Computerized services – It supports computerized library services which help in easy stock management.
• Web-based information - It provides a high-quality web-based information gateway.
• User-friendly - It is a user-friendly software that facilitates all the functions to run in a seamless manner.
• Full access - It offers expanded access to library materials. It provides full access to the whole library material in an effective way.

Integrated library system is user friendly software which technically supports the software in following:

• Language – It refers to the programming language installed in the software should run smoothly.
• Technical compatibility – The software must support the latest version and run in operating system in the hardware.
• Ease of use – Software package should cover all the in-house functions of the library to make it simple and easy to use.
• Interface – It should facilitate the import and export of the data from other systems.
• Integration – It also offer the facility to integrate the data in the system.
• Support – Good support system is an advantage of software. If the software provides full support like online training, on-site training and help desk it is rated high.
• Training – Both on-site and off-site training are important in the software.