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Article
Publication date: 16 November 2012

Manisha Singh and Gareema Sanaman

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…

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Abstract

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.

Details

The Electronic Library, vol. 30 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-0473

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 27 June 2019

Muhammad Asim and Muhammad Ijaz Mairaj

This study aims to find out the reasons of adopting Koha integrated library software, discovers the problems faced by librarians during its implementation, and gets the…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to find out the reasons of adopting Koha integrated library software, discovers the problems faced by librarians during its implementation, and gets the perceptions of librarians about the performances of Koha in Punjab, a province of Pakistan.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey method was used to collect the data through questionnaire from the purposefully selected sample (N = 66) of university librarians of Punjab, a province of Pakistan.

Findings

The librarians adopted Koha due to the availability of Web online public access catalog (OPAC), provision of MARC21 standards for cataloging and its free availability. During implementation, the librarians were faced with the problems of lack of technical skills, lack of knowledge about the Linux operating system, shortage of skilled manpower, slow internet speeds and approval from their organization. They highly rated the performance of the cataloguing, circulation, patron and OPAC modules of Koha.

Originality/value

This research provides a brief picture of librarians’ perceptions about Koha adoption and satisfaction levels. The findings highlighted the issues and problems faced during the implementation of Koha. This study will be helpful for librarians in the selection, implementation and usage of the Koha software in their libraries.

Details

The Electronic Library , vol. 37 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-0473

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 17 May 2021

Maya Deori, Vinit Kumar and Manoj Kumar Verma

The purpose of the study is to evaluate certain characteristics of the videos of the software Koha and DSpace posted on YouTube. Since YouTube has the potential to provide the…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to evaluate certain characteristics of the videos of the software Koha and DSpace posted on YouTube. Since YouTube has the potential to provide the content creator to share their knowledge and experience through their content which has become much more beneficial to the information seeker. Nowadays, people search for queries or tutorial videos on YouTube very often to earn a better understanding of the term. Sentiment analysis of the viewers' opinion of the videos is another purpose of this study.

Design/methodology/approach

Dataset for evaluating the characteristic of the videos of Koha and DSpace was extracted by using Webometric Analyst by creating YouTube API. Once retrieval of data was completed, a manual verification was enhanced to filter out spam videos unrelated to the scope. After the confirmation of authentic relatable videos, seeking the video's id as query, the comments per video were extracted using Webometric Analyst. For opinion mining, the Parallel Dots API web service was used in Google Sheets as an addon function. The sentiment, multilingual sentiment, emotion, intention and word frequency of the viewers' opinion was examined with the help of certain default functionalities.

Findings

Webometric Analyst extracted a total of 461 and 397 videos of Koha and DSpace, respectively, uploaded on the YouTube platform. The findings of the study indicate that the growth rate of videos on Koha is decreasing, while the number of videos uploaded on DSpace is gradually increased in the last 10 years. The highest number of videos posted in 1–20 min duration category with mostly high definition (HD) with standard YouTube license and prominently in the English language. The sentiment analysis of the total extracted comments on Koha and DSpace videos found to be 2043 and 862 comments, respectively, among whom “Positive” comments are mostly found and with “Happy” emotion can be highly detected with most supportive “Feedback” intention on both Koha and DSpace videos. The top word frequency signifies that the users of both the software are using the comments section of the videos on YouTube to ask and provide troubleshooting help to each other.

Research limitations/implications

The present study has some limitations too; the dataset for the study includes only those videos whose title, description or keywords sections had the query terms “Koha” or “DSpace” there are chances that some videos would have been left out from the dataset related to these software.

Originality/value

This is the first paper to evaluate the characteristics and sentiment of both the videos Koha and DSpace. Through this, the popularity, likeness and dislike and the impact of the contents of the videos uploaded will be disclosed, and creators can make an improvement by referring this, and the seekers will adapt to the use of correct and authentic information.

Details

Library Hi Tech, vol. 41 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0737-8831

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 March 2022

Sujan Saha and Sukumar Mandal

The automation of libraries has made a significant difference in the quality of service. All libraries seek to improve the quality of their services, and the library seems to be a…

Abstract

Purpose

The automation of libraries has made a significant difference in the quality of service. All libraries seek to improve the quality of their services, and the library seems to be a frequent target for modernization efforts throughout the globe. Local dialects need specific translations to use library management software. A variety of languages are available to create open-source techniques. The integrated library management system Koha is gaining traction. The Koha software has been translated and made accessible to a worldwide audience in many languages.

Design/methodology/approach

This experiment was based on a controlled setting and a realistic observation of the Koha translation process. A sample of a population is selected to study and draw conclusions about the entire population.

Findings

Results are based on a statistical report made available on the Koha translation site for the gathering of sample data, which is based on sample data that has been collected and brought to light. This analysis demonstrates how to translate Koha software on a pootle server step by step using sting data inputs on different po files accessible in translation databases.

Originality/value

The authors of this paper explain the procedure of translating Koha software and provide a global overview of Koha software translation into different languages throughout the world. Therefore, it can be expected that the importance of Koha software will increase tremendously for the people of different languages through the method of translation.

Details

Library Hi Tech News, vol. 39 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0741-9058

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 April 2013

Bojan Macan, Gladys Vanesa Fernández and Jadranka Stojanovski

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…

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Abstract

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.

Details

Program, vol. 47 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0033-0337

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 June 2016

Elisha Ondieki Makori and Norak Mauti Osebe

The purpose of this paper is to focus on Koha enterprise resource planning system and its potential impact on information management organizations in Kenya against the risks and…

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to focus on Koha enterprise resource planning system and its potential impact on information management organizations in Kenya against the risks and myths associated with the solution.

Design/methodology/approach

The study focused on selected scan and analysis of information management organizations using Koha enterprise resource planning system in addition to document or desk review analysis. Expert opinions and ideas of information professionals, especially information systems and information leaders, also provided vital knowledge.

Findings

Koha enterprise resource planning system as the premier and leading free and open-source software is transforming and integrating information services in knowledge-based organizations. Driving significant forces include economical benefits, global customer base, free use and distribution, technical and online support, compatibility and integration with other technologies and global access to information and organization of knowledge. The study also established that the risks and myths associated with the system such as compatibility and integration with other technological solutions are no longer possible challenges. Koha provides business intelligence and cloud computing solutions over proprietary or commercial systems for managing and supporting information in organizations.

Research limitations/implications

This study purposively focused on selected information and knowledge management organizations using the Koha free and open-source enterprise resource planning system in addition to expert opinions and ideas of stakeholders in the information industry.

Practical implications

Koha enterprise resource planning system provides alternative solutions to information organizations already burdened with limited financial resources. In addition, it proves to the entire world that the solution that was developed for rural and small-based information organizations has developed into a leading knowledge enterprise resource planning solution. In information management organizations, Koha enterprise resource planning system is the strategic asset whose growth and use has increased tremendously across the globe.

Social implications

Potential widespread application and usage of the Koha enterprise resource system that was initially developed for rural and small information organizations is proof enough that the free and open-source software movement can produce best solutions that are economically viable over proprietary systems. Significant impact of the enterprise system across the globe indicates that information management organizations, information professionals and leaders are satisfied with the system.

Originality/value

In the knowledge-based economy, where technological systems and solutions are fundamental for quality delivery of services to the customers, information professionals must and as always provide the necessary technology, leadership and management qualities. Across the world, Koha free and open-source enterprise resource planning system is increasingly gaining momentum in information management organizations, and Kenyan information professionals are no exception.

Article
Publication date: 17 February 2021

Shakeel Ahmad Khan and Ghulam Ayesha

The purpose of this study is to investigate the key features of information management systems (IMSs) for automation in university libraries. This study also highlights the use of…

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the key features of information management systems (IMSs) for automation in university libraries. This study also highlights the use of library information management systems in university libraries and the satisfaction of university librarians in using various IMS.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is quantitative in nature. A survey research method has been applied to achieve the research objectives. Purposive sampling has been used to select the targeted population which consisted of 157 librarians working in university libraries. Data were collected through a web-based questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied to analyze the collected data by using SPSS software.

Findings

Free and open source software are widely used in university libraries to manage the bibliographic information of library material. KOHA is the most used software for library automation in university libraries of Pakistan. The key features of library information management system (IMS) include reliability and security of the software, user-friendly interface, advance searching options, use of library standards (MARC, Uni MARC, RDA), online upgradation, technical support of developing company, shared cataloging, multilingual features of software, etc (See Figure 4). The study recommends that the above-mentioned features must be considered by university librarians when selecting any software for library automation. Results showed that apart from the use of KOHA software, there are also some other software which are being used for library automation in university libraries of Pakistan. These systems include; Virtua, Library Management System (LMS), and Library Information Management Systems (LIMSs).

Practical implications

This study has practical implications for university librarians in Pakistan as well as in other countries. Librarians can use the results of this study as a blueprint before selecting any information management system to automate the library record.

Originality/value

This study identifies the core features of IMS for automation in libraries. These features have been recommended by informational professionals who have been working in automated libraries and possess adequate professional experience in using library automation software.

Details

Library Hi Tech, vol. 40 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0737-8831

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 October 2019

Aubrey Chaputula and Allan Kanyundo

The purpose of this paper is to study the use of Koha integrated library system by higher education institutions in Malawi.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the use of Koha integrated library system by higher education institutions in Malawi.

Design/methodology/approach

The study made use of the diffusion of innovation theory as an anchoring model. Data were collected using a survey questionnaire that was administered to library managers of higher education institutions registered with the National Council for Higher Education in Malawi. The data collected were analyzed using SPPS version 21 to generate descriptive statistics.

Findings

The findings revealed that 84.2 per cent of libraries in higher education institutions in Malawi are automated, and 81.3 per cent of them are using Koha ILS and the rest were using proprietary and other open source software. Cost and technical aspects have been discovered to be the primary factors that have assisted in the rapid diffusion of Koha. The study also exposed some factors that negatively impacted the use of Koha in the adopting institutions. The main ones included lack of information and communication technology infrastructure, unreliable Internet connectivity and limited finances.

Originality/value

Previously, some small-scale case studies have been performed to examine implementation of Koha in some higher education institutions in Malawi. However, this is the first large-scale attempt to investigate use of Koha among higher education institutions in the country. Findings that have shown that Koha can be installed easily and used at minimal cost could assist in its rapid adoption in the higher education institutions, a majority of whom face a myriad of financial challenges.

Details

Digital Library Perspectives, vol. 35 no. 3/4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2059-5816

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 October 2019

Preeti Mulay, Sangeeta Paliwal, Venkatesh Iyengar, Samaya Pillai and Ashwini Rao

Advancements in open source, free integrated library management system (LMS) for cataloging, circulation, flexible reporting and automated library services especially in academic…

Abstract

Purpose

Advancements in open source, free integrated library management system (LMS) for cataloging, circulation, flexible reporting and automated library services especially in academic communities has gained extreme importance. The purpose of this study is to provide solution to a distinct problem about automatic generation of multiple copies for unique titles leading to title mismatch and duplication in biblio-records related to university collection of books. The aim of this paper is to provide solution to generate the unique titles report in any large size university library using KOHA, without loss of accession history or empirical data. This paper also demonstrates the smooth transition from one library software to KOHA.

Design/methodology/approach

The case university is considered here as a giant entity having huge collection of reading material, along with multiple institutes affiliations. The study demonstrates a step-by-step trial-and-error method involving several iterations detecting root cause, implementing corrective actions and finally resolving the problem of data redundancy and duplication of records. Currently, KOHA’s user manual does not provide any solution to this problem. The authors believe that this paper will enable various practitioners of KOHA-LMS toward understanding and appreciating the quality of library information/records being managed in delivering quality services to all its users and stakeholders. The methodology used in this work is KOHA’s open access platform, and the existing LMS, for generating unique titles report. The Microsoft’s Excel format, pivot table approach, Libsuite software, SQL queries for KOHA, databases, cloud-based system platform, etc. approaches are used to successfully achieve the unique title report of print books in the university library.

Findings

This paper provides the solution about how to generate a complete and correct unique title report for all print books of the university. The preventive measures related to generation of unique titles when influx of new books or adding new institute(s) under the university are required.

Research limitations/implications

The focus of the work discussed here is limited to generating correct report of unique titles using KOHA related to only print books of a university having multiple institutes affiliated to it.

Practical implications

This paper gives a constructive solution for generation of the unique titles report using KOHA, practically useful for any university or to the institute who wish to use KOHA, one of the open source software used worldwide for libraries.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills an identified need to study how to generate unique titles report related to print books of the university library. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, there exists no such case study from available knowledge base/literature on the topic of interest and particularly focusing on the multiple copies data redundancy problem of KOHA-LMS.

Details

Library Hi Tech News, vol. 36 no. 8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0741-9058

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 April 2016

Margam Madhusudhan and Vikas Singh

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…

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Abstract

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.

Details

The Electronic Library, vol. 34 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-0473

Keywords

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