Integrated systems applications in Kuwait academic libraries

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the integrated systems applications in Kuwaiti academic libraries with a particular emphasis on their profiles, procurement, implementation, management and service aspects.

Design/methodology/approach

The survey method was employed for the study. Procedures used were as follows: identification of Kuwaiti academic libraries; preparation and testing of survey instrument; physical visits and administration of the instruments; interpreting the instruments and having them filled out in one‐to‐one encounters; analysis of data; and write‐up and reporting.

Findings

Three of the six Kuwaiti higher education institutions were established during the last decade. Five of the six academic libraries are using an integrated system. Cataloging applications are almost complete in all the surveyed libraries. The circulation module has not been in use in the largest university library. Serials management is not optimally utilized in the surveyed libraries. The library managers are mostly satisfied with hardware/software, vendor support, physical facilities, and funding opportunities. There are opportunities for networking, system‐integration, and full utilization of management reporting aspects of these systems.

Research limitations/implications

The study does not assess the technical aspects of automated systems. Portals and digital library initiatives have not been covered in this study.

Practical implications

Academic libraries in the region may take useful clues from these findings for developing and managing their automated systems.

Originality/value

Since no similar study has been conducted in Kuwait, it enhances the understanding of the prevailing situation about the use of integrated systems and their applications in the country.

Citation

ur Rehman, S. and Al‐Huraiti, R. (2010), "Integrated systems applications in Kuwait academic libraries", The Electronic Library, Vol. 28 No. 6, pp. 858-872. https://doi.org/10.1108/02640471011093543