Status and Application of Automated System in Forest Research Institute Library: An Evaluative Study
Abstract
This study aims to investigate the status, usage and barriers faced by the library during library automation. It also identifies the staff behaviour and students’ perceptions regarding the Forest Research Institute (FRI) library services. The study employed a case study approach and a survey methodology to achieve the research objectives. The survey was conducted both offline and online, involving a personal visit to the FRI library by one researcher. In online mode, the questionnaires were shared via Email and WhatsApp to FRI library users. The study focused exclusively on the FRI library in Dehradun, conducting an in-depth analysis. Data collection relied on a carefully crafted questionnaire with two sets: Set A covered library software, modules and hardware usage, while Set B targeted user perspectives. Microsoft Excel was chosen for data presentation, tabulation, and analysis due to its versatile and user-friendly interface. The findings reveal that the central library is fully automated using KOHA software. Before KOHA software, the library used Libsys software, and due to the high Annual Maintenance Charges (AMCs) of Libsys, they shifted to KOHA. Furthermore, this study reveals that most respondents were satisfied with the OPAC interface, searching facility, and staff behaviour. Moreover, the study recommended that the library expand the opening hours, update collections, and improve the reading halls’ comfort. The findings emphasize the obstacle of strategic budget allocation, staff training and infrastructure enhancements to facilitate an efficient and user-centric library environment.
Keywords: Library Automation, Library Management, Library Housekeeping Operations, Library Software, KOHA, Libsys, Forest Library, FRI, NFLIC, ICFRE, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
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