DESIGN - AND - IMPLEMENTATION - OF - AN - ONLINE - LIBRARY - SYSTEM Having

CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 LIBRARY SYSTEM
A library can be defined as a room or building where books are kept
and referenced. It is an area of multifarious activity on book management. A
library as a repository of knowledge, houses collections of books, both
reference and general, technical reports, periodicals, journals, conference
proceedings and the likes. Consequently, truth and knowledge can be found
and acquired from the library through the aforementioned sources. The
information contents of any of the collections can be recorded on
microfilms, audiotapes, microchips and other materials traditionally kept in
the library, which is charged with the responsibility of acquiring, organizing,
maintaining, and judicial circulation of the books and other library materials
through the various sections of the library, for efficient use of the library by
the users.
The acquisition, cataloguing, bindery and circulation sections of the
library undertake the acquiring, organizing, maintaining and circulation of
the books/library materials respectively. When the library through the
acquisition section of the library acquires a book, its record is taken and
accession number is given to the book after which the book will be sent to
cataloguing section of the library. Under this section, the book will be
carefully studied and given catalogue number before it will be sent to
circulation section of the library as the case may be. The circulation section
is responsible for circulation or distribution of books.
This section also arranges the consulted books in the shelves.
There are other sections like reference section, which provides reference
questions and bibliographic service, and serial section where periodical,
journals and related materials are kept. The library also houses special
collections and also operates circulation
control in which books are lent to users. In fact it is indeed a place of
multifarious activities on book management.
1.2 STATEMENT OF PROBLEM
In human endeavors, there are a lot of developments, researches, and
discoveries, which result in multifarious production of publications and
library materials. These have brought increase in complexity of library
system and its operations.
Based on these, a number of problems are facing the library systems, which
include:
(i) Unnecessary delay in library processes.
(ii) High cost of staff recruitment and maintenance.

(iii) Error prone operations/processes.
(iv) Inefficiency in library operation.
(v) Too many paper work and replication of data on multiple pieces
of paper.
(vi) Unreliable card catalogue system.
(vii) Mutilation of books by students i.e. students tear/hide books.
1.3 OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY
There is hardly any aspect of human endeavor that is today not being
assisted by computerization. The objective of this project: Design and
Implementation of Oline Library Services System with a reference to
Caritas University Library. The application program developed in this
research essentially monitors and keep records of the individual book
movement together with the operations going on in various sections of
the library particularly concerned with book control. These operations
include book lending, returning of the borrowed books, reservation of
books, acquisition processes, registration of users and other related
activities in Library management system.
In this study therefore, the researchers hope to accomplish the
following objectives:
To design a better way of avoiding loss of books in the library.
To solve the problem of delay in locating books.
Assist the Liberian to carry out library operations more
effectively.
Eliminate manual operations in the library.
To achieve high efficiency in the library services.
1.4 SCOPE OF THE STUDY
This project looks into the processes involved in keeping tracks of the
books in the library system. The researchers concentrated on the operations
going on in the Acquisition, cataloging and most especially, circulation
sections in the library.
1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
The study gave birth to a new system Online Library Services System)
designed to bring efficiency in the library system operations. It will
eliminate some of the problems associated with the old (manual) system of
library management, which include cost of equipment and staff maintenance
and also allow institutions to manage the affairs of libraries easily.
1.6 LIMITATION OF THE STUDY
This study will not look in detail into other sections of the library except
the only three sections aforementioned. The intuitive works like reading of a
book before classification and technical work like ownership stamping
conveyance of books etc, this section is not part of this study.
1.7 DEFINITION OF TERMS
DESIGN: It is a detail plan or arrangement to achieve a particular
purpose.
A SYSTEM: It is an assemblage of interrelated elements, which we find
interesting to study. It could be a process, a machine or a program.
A PROGRAM: It is a set of instructions and procedures that tells the
computer what to do.
AN APPLICATION: A program designed to perform particular tasks.
THE RESEARCHERS: This refers to the developers of the system in
study (i.e. Richard).
THE USER: The user here refers to the library staff or the people who
make use of the library. It also refers to the person who uses the program
(e.g. library staff).
AUTOMATION/COMPUTERIZATION: It is a process of making a
system to carry out its processes on its own. That without much helps
from man.
MODULE: An independent unit that is part of a larger development. It is
the same thing as sub-tasks.
VISUAL LIBRARY SYSTEM: It is an application or program designed
by researchers to manage library operations. It is a program designed
with a visual programming language in which the user will make use of a
mouse in operating. It is event driven and objects appear in their visual
forms to the user.

CHAPTER TWO
2.1 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
Libraries originated with writing about 6000 years ago and that was
when writing was being done using materials like bones, clay, wax,
papyrus, metals, silk, leather, parchment, paper, and other available
materials. Later, these materials were assembled together to form
libraries.
Among the earliest libraries were ANCIENT LIBRARIES OF CLAY,
which emerged in Iraq and other Mesopotamian region like Syria and
Turkey. In these libraries, records were kept on clay tablets. Within that
period were also ANCIENT LIBRARIES OF ANIMAL SKIN and
ANCIENT LIBRARIES OF PAPYRUS of which Alexandria libraries in
Egypt were the examples. These libraries invariably were connected with
temples, for these institutions were the centers of the whole life of the
whole communities.
Moreover, it is widely believed that the private and institutional
libraries are traceable to Egypt and Greece respectively, and the
emergence of public libraries started in Rome. Libraries studies was
given a boost by Julius Caesar during the first century of the Roman
especially with his conferment of the Franchise privilege on all foreign

teachers of liberal education residing in Rome. However, it was
Augustus, who succeeded Caesar that gave a greater impact to
scholarship development. He founded the first public libraries in Rome
(69 – 70 AD). He established a library in the temple of peace, which
formed the nucleus of a school of higher learning at a later time.
The history of library development in Nigeria is of recent vintage. In
fact, the earliest library in Nigeria was Tom Jones Library, which was
established in 1910. That was the first public subscription library in
Nigeria. The beginning of academic library was marked in Nigeria with
the founding of Yaba Higher College in 1948. Later on the British
council took over the library sense with the foundation of the first
municipal council library in Lagos, and established British council
libraries in various parts of the country.
Unfortunately, these became a great loss of library stock after the
Nigerian Civil War, and the federal government then took it as part of its
rehabilitation effort in promulgating the National Library‟s decree of
1970, which provided for the branches to be set up in every state of the
federation. Hence repealing the former National Library Act 1964.
Within the first decade of its existence, the National Library has
succeeded in stock over 75000 volumes, 2000 period leads, 150

Newspapers and became a depository for the United Nations
Organization (UNO) and its agencies.
With the increase in establishment of universities all over the country,
the government of Nigeria also sees the essence of providing library in
every institution of learning. Now, Nigeria can boast of libraries in all
the higher institutions of learning, almost all the academic
establishments and even private and public establishments. There are
also National and state libraries throughout the states of federation. But
all these libraries have one problem in common; the backwardness in the
automated library world.
In Nigeria, this type of research is not new. Literature review of a
research topic is an exercise in which the researcher tries to identify,
locate, read and evaluate the previous studies, observations, opinions,
comments related to what he or she intends to research on. Such a review
is intended to provide the researcher with a good knowledge of up to date
information on what he/she is working on.
In this study, we go ahead to review the comments form some
researchers and writers alike.

Akinyotu (1977), states that library automation has reached various levels
of development in many developed and developing countries in the
world.
Reynolds (1985), stated that libraries have been in the information
business several years before any known modern institution, they ought
to have been the ”earliest beneficiaries” of the application of computer
technology to their operation and services.
John W. (1956) stated that librarians ought to be computer literate.
Shera Josse H. (1991), made mention that library computerization is a
term often used in discussing the use of computers and related
equipments to help libraries handle and manage the physical materials
that comprises library collections.
Velma Veneziano stated that “computer-based library circulation
system has resulted in dramatic changes in practice and procedures in the
circulation section”.
Kingery and Tauber (1963) stated that nearly all collections are
concerned with computer-produced book cataloguing.
Marlene Clay and Chris Batt (1992) stated that today it is increasingly
difficult to find libraries which do not use computers in some shape or

form. Better questions are “what benefits should one expect to gain and
where should it stop”.
Lorraine M. (1973) says that to cope with the new computer-based
systems, today‟s librarian must learn the language and technique of
automated catalogue.
Robert Wedgeworth (1973) noted that computer based acquisition
procedures which have been developed at the library provide more
effective control over fund accounting and maintenance of an outstanding
order file. The system illustrates an economical, yet flexible approach to
automated acquisitions procedures in an academic library.
Richard De Genaro (1992) however noted that in the development of
an automated program in a research library, three approaches will be
considered. The library may decide simply to wait for developments; it
may attempt to develop an integrated system from start and will also deal
with important elements in any program regardless of the approach.
These include building a capability to do automation work, staffing,
equipment, organizational structure and costs.
Lawrence Auld‟s (1995) made mention that automated systems of a
book order and circulation control using an IBM 1620 computer was
developed at Oakland University and it recorded relative degree of
success and failure.
Kilgour R. A. (1986) made mention of BELLREL online circulation
control system.
Lancaster(1974), defined library automation as “the most effective
model covering library processing and query operations seems to be one
where every operations has immediate access to up-to-date information”.
In the light of the above, updating has become automatic part of the
most processes, and an update in one operation is as update for everyone,
and to a very large extent, the need for replicating date on multiple pieces
of paper is eliminated. Hence, automation helps the library system to
operate efficiently.
However, early part of 1970‟s experienced series of oppositions to
library automation. But whatever else Ellsworth Manson‟s (1971) attack
on library automation may have accomplished, it certainly succeeded in
starring debate regarding the validity of use computers in libraries. In
another attack, as sharply worded as his first, Mason (1971) described
modern society as having retreated from reality, “resulting in an
unwillingness to think problems through their conclusions”; as being
concerned imitating industry; and as being unable to question “market

place ideas.” “These factors “ he said, ”have resulted in a state of
brainlessness that has allowed automation to be launched in libraries for
personal and institutional ego reasons; with little critical evaluation and
no cost justification.” In his second article, as in his first, Mason
challenged the advocates of library automation to respond to his charges.
Fortunately, so many people reacted against Mason‟s challenges to
highlight the need for library automation. In response to Mason‟s
charges. Avran (1972) defended automation in an article published with
Mason‟s entitled “library automation; A balanced view” she conceded
certain short comings in the field where she admitted that without doubts,
hardware had been oversold and many library automation projects were
directed by librarians with a good ideal, but less experience in computer
technology than it takes. But she pointed out that the great increase in the
amount of materials handled in libraries coupled with rising cost, had
made it necessary to find a means using professional cataloging skills at
only one point in the system.
Avran concentrated on the future, noticing that although there are
successful systems in operation now, we are still in a period where there
are issues in need of decisions, problems requiring solutions and concepts
calling for further development. She questioned the validity of judging

library automation solely on the basis of cost justification, suggesting that
libraries today provide services or handle larger volumes of traffic where
computers are used.
Kilgore (1972) stated that computer possesses the potentials for
enabling big libraries to recapture human qualities of which classical
Liberian ship has deprived them since heir days as one-Liberian
libraries.” With a series of specific illustrations, Kilgour described how
libraries would use computers to improve those present service that are
seriously breaking down, to provide personalized bibliographies, and
event to lower costs, an event he said that would occur when entire
procedures are automated.
Kilgore‟s arguments, like Avran‟s, contain few hard facts about
present operations and thus seem unlikely to sway Mason, whose faith in
the future seems quite limited and whose demands for cost justification
cannot be met by most the current automated applications.
Finally, the scientific age has created special problems for libraries
because of enormous increase in populations, in the number of young
people going to school, in the number of adults going back to school and
in amount of leisure time. These increases in demand upon library
services must be met in the face of a formidable list of obstacles,

foremost among is the explosive growth in the amount of recorded
knowledge which has to be acquired, processed, housed and made
available. The cost of books is going up every year, the cost of
processing them likewise. Budgets generally do not permit expanding the
services needed to meet the demands, much less adding new services.
Also staff and space shortages plague many libraries. Even when there
are staffs, there is maintenance problem. In fact, library automation is the
only way to wiggle out of these multifarious problems, which are
attacking library systems‟ development.
2.2 TYPES OF LIBRARY
NATIONAL LIBRARY: The history of the national library
would be dated back to 1795 when the French national convention
declared the library belonging to the king‟s national property and
granted it the right to obtain deposit copies of all printed
publications of the country. In the 19th century, following this,
national libraries were established in more than 20 countries.
During the 20th century, 30 more were founded.

The national library in Nigeria opened its door to the public
November in 1964 through the appointment of Dr. Carl White as
the library adviser in March 1962.
A library is called a national one when it is the official
depository of printed works, a general access library, an
information bibliographical centre, and a centre of co-ordination,
planning and stimulation of the entire library system of the nation.
PUBLIC/STATE LIBRARY: The term public has many different
definitions. It could be said to be a library which is not private. It
could be said to be a library which is available generally to the
public. It could also be said to be a library which is supported
substantially by public funds.
The purpose of the public library is to make it possible for every
member of the community according to their needs and
circumstances, to enjoy whatever benefits, full access to books and
related forms of record may bring them. The public library is
concerned with all materials of value to the individual and
community and it is their duties not only to meet existing demands,
people also encourage and facilitate wider demands from more
people. Also, the public library must be comprehensive, general

service library for the use of all sections of the community. This is
being the case; it then follows that it should be established by the
community as a whole, at the common expense of the community.
ACADEMIC LIBRARY: Academic library or libraries in
institutions of higher learning, are as varied and as distinctive as
the institutions which they serve. It is a fact that whatever level of
quantity an institution of higher learning processes or aspires to,
will be determined by the character of its library. The academic
library is the means whereby the individual in an institution of
higher learning can escape from the limited frame of reference
which the class room represents. It is also a place where an
individual can seek a sense of intellectual integrity and self-
understanding which is the ultimate goal of education.
The basic function of an academic library according to gates
(1968) is to aid the institution in carrying out its programme. The
nature of the institution determines its objectives by acquiring and
making available books, materials and services needed in the
institutional programme.
SPECIAL LIBRARIES: The term „special‟ as applied to
libraries, has different meanings. It could be used as a term to

apply to all libraries that are not national, public or academic. It
may be used to cover certain privately endowed specialized
collections. It can also be used to apply to subject branches or
departments of public or university library, such as Africana
collection, law collection of a university.

CHAPTER THREE
METHODOLOGY AND ANALYSIS OF THE EXISTING SYSTEM
3.1 SOURCE OF DATA
In the course of writing this project, we visited our case study Caritas
University Library. The library is the major source that provided us other
necessary information through its staff. Other sources are literature,
computer textbooks and on-line sources.
3.2 METHOD OF DATA COLLECTION
Since we decided to take a case study of Caritas University Library,
which is a subject of the general problem in library system management,
the study was narrowed down and as such we had to make use of only
three methods of data collections, which are:
(a) Interview Method
(b) Observation Method
(c) Record Consultation
3.2.1 Interview Method
This is a method of data collection in which questions are asked
directly to the person(s) you want to extract information from.

During the interview, which was carried out by the researcher at the
various sections of the library, the following questions were drawn.
(i) Could you give us the functions of this section? (General
question)
(ii) How do you keep records of your activities?
(iii) How do you get books? (Acquisition section)
(iv) What criteria do you base your choice of books to be ordered?
(Acquisition section)
(v) How does your section relate with other sections or in other
word, what is the relationship between your section and others?
(vi) What is the staff strength of this section like?
(vii) How do you classify books? (Cataloguing)
(viii) How do you relate with the library users? (Circulation section)
(ix) How do you take statatistics of books and when? (Circulation
section)
(x) Do you think there is need for automation of this section of the
library?
3.2.2 OBSERVATION METHOD
Observation involves taking a close look on the activities going on in a
system. During our observation, we found out that Caritas Library adopts
two methods of book control, which are:
(i) Formal book movement control
(ii) Informal book movement control
Formal system of book control as the name implies involves the use of
formal document like registration cards, borrower's card, date due card,
author‟s card, order form, over-due note etc. to carry out functions that will
lead to a successful book control.
The informal system of book control is adopted by Caritas
University Library to the formal system of book control as the latter could be
not guarantee 100% efficiency under this system, the following methods
were observed by the researcher:
(i) Counting Method:
This is applied when some documents are counted to take the
statistics of each day‟s activities. For instance, the author‟s card
and date due cards are counted to take record of the books
borrowed or returned that day.
(ii) Slight – Contact Method:

This is a situation whereby some materials are checked
thorough look on them. For instance, it helps to know books
which are torn or in bad shapes, for them to be sent to the
bindery for repair.
(iii) Security - check Method:
This involves the inspection of the library users to ensure that
they do not go with books unauthorized. This is normally done
at the entrance where the users are checked before they leave
the library.
3.1.3 RECORD CONSULTATION
The researcher also gets a lot of consultations to the records in the library
that shed more light on the library system operations. These records are
library file report, library corporate policy and procedure documents,
organizational chart and on line/records.

3.3 Organizational Structure
UNIVERSITY LIBRARIAN
SECRETARY SPECIAL
ASSISTANT
ADMINISTRATION PUBLIC TECHNICAL COLLECTION SPECIAL

SERVICES SERVICES DEVELOPMEN COLLECTION
T
BUILDING & REFERENCE AFRICANA
GROUNDS CATALOGUING ACQUISITION
SYSTEM & INST. OF

BUDGECT CIRCULATION BINDERY SERIALS AFRICAN
STUDIES
UNITED
AUDIO VISUAL PUBLICATION
REPROGRAPHY FACULTY NATIONS (UNO)
S; GIFTS &
LIBRARY EXCHANGE PUBLICATION
3.4 SYSTEM ANALYSIS
The configuration of library systems varies from one library to
another, and depends on the type and complexity of the library system.
The analysis of the system is divided into two areas: Analysis of the
current system and the problem inherent in the existing system.
3.5 ANALYSIS OF THE EXISTING SYSTEM
The library contains approximately 10,000 volumes of books which is
open to all registered members of the university community. The staff
working in the library includes:
PROFESSIONAL: With professional qualification on library
system, function and usage.
PARA-PROFESSIONAL: With lesser qualification but equipped
with basic knowledge of library system, function and usage.
NON-PROFESSIONAL: these are mainly staff without enough
qualification whose job is menial i.e. shelving and stamping,
drivers, cleaners, security e.g.
The operational hours of the library are as follows:
PERIOD DAYS TIME
DURING SECTION MONDAY - FRIDAY 8AM-12PM

SATURDAY CLOSED
SUNDAY CLOSED
DURIND VACATION CLOSED CLOSED
Table 3.1 library time table
The organizational structure of Caritas University Library, which is our case
study, has five standard divisions, which are:
(i) Administration division
(ii) Collection and development division
(iii) Technical division
(iv) Public Services division
(v) Special collection division
The deputy Liberian oversees the individual the individual division
respectively and he is accountable to the university Liberian. In the
sections below, brief explanation will be given about each division of the
library.
(a) Administration division
This is one of the major divisions of the library and it is so organized
that it has span of control and reporting superior. It coordinates and
controls all administrative works of the library maintenance. It has three
sections:
(i) Building and Grounds section
(ii) System budget
(iii) Reprography
(b) Collection and Development Division
This division is responsible for selection tool routine. It is charged
with the responsibility of determining the types of books and library
materials needed. Amongst the criteria by which this is performed is the
ordering of extra copies of books that are in high section to update the
library stock. Also books and other materials could be received as gifts
from some organizations like World Bank, through division of this
library. For any book or library material to be used in the library, it must
pass through this division for appropriate documentation, which involves
issuance of accession number and ownership stamps. This division
comprises three sections, which are:
(i) Acquisition section
(ii) Serial section
(iii) Publication, gift and exchange section
(c) Technical Services Division
This division has three sections, which are charged with the technical or
physical works of the library. They are:

(i) Cataloguing section
(ii) Binding section
(iii) Audio visual section
The cataloguing section is responsible for reading, classification and
cataloguing of all the books that would be used in the library. In fact, it is the
most vital sections of the library
(d) SPECIAL ASSISTANT:
The special assistant can also act as the secretary to the librarian and
other library committees as the university librarian may from time to time
direct. Assist the librarian on professional matters, preparation of annual
reports. Any other function as assigned by the university librarian.
SYSTEMS: Acts under the general direction of the university
librarian, to initiate and develop systems (manual or automated) for
the improvement of processes and services in the libraries. To keep an
eye on new trends in the profession.
3.6 PROBLEMS OF THE EXISTING SYSTEM
The problems facing the existing systems are as follows.
LACK OF ACCURACY: Considering the fact that human factor can
set at anytime, there are likely tendencies of mistake, especially taking
statistics on library matters.

POOR RECORD: Considering the large volume of data involved,
the existing system has poor approach to large database design. The
manual system makes use of a register where all registered library
users have their data entered.
LARGE MANPOWER REQUIREMENT: Because of the manual
operation, a lot of manpower resources is required.
INABILITY TO TRACK MATERIALS EASILY: Because of its
manual operation the tracking of books is sometimes delayed. The
new system is designed in such a way that any point in time, it can tell
where a particular book is without having to check it out physically.
In the manual system under study, books sent to the bindery or
reservation are often lost track of.
End-User STATISTICS: in the existing system, statistics must be
taken at the end of the day‟s work and that is tedious and time
consuming. But the proposed system updates the statistics file after
each transaction.
NOT-LEND TO INFORMATION: Unlike the existing system, the
proposed systems can operate in library system network and places
orders or shares library materials with other systems in the network.

CHAPTER FOUR
SYSTEM DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION
4.1 ANALYSIS OF THE PROPOSED SYSTEM
The proposed system, ONLINE LIBRARY SERVICES SYSTEM is
considered an improvement of the existing system. This is because the tested
system takes care of the main problems associated with the current manual
method of library operation in Caritas University.
In other words, the problems of delay, inefficiency and tedium in the
current system have been completely taken care of, by the proposed system.
Therefore, it can be concluded that the proposed system provided more
efficient method of library services operation.
4.2 FILE DESIGN SPECIFICATION
The structure of the files defines, itemizes and describes the type of
variable names, data types, width and decimal in terms of numeric variable
index field. These variables only the ones used in the input and output files.
S/NO FIELD NAME TYPE WIDTH DEC INDEX
1 TITLE VARCHAR 50 - Y
2 AUTHOR VARCHAR 50 - Y
3 DATE OF PUBLICATION DATE 50 - N
4 PUBLISHER VARCHAR 50 - N
5 ISBN VARCHAR 50 - N
6 PAGINATION VARCHAR 50 - N
7 SHELF VARCHAR 50 - N
Table 4.1 File Design
4.3 OUTPUT DESIGN
Since the programming language used is event driven and object
oriented, the output appears on the screen using Microsoft windows format
as designed by the researcher.
FIELD NAME WIDTH DATA-TYPE
Lib Number 10 String
Name 20 String
Department 10 String
Cataloguing 10 String
Address 20 String
Date 8 Date
Table 4.2 Registration Table
(ii) Borrow.tbl: This file holds information about any borrowing
transactions, which have not been renewed. The fields are as follows:
FIELD NAME WIDTH DATA-TYPE
LIB NUMBER 10 STRING
BKCALL NUMBER 10 STRING
DATE 8 DATE
Table 4.3Borrower’s Table
4.4 INPUT DDESIGN:
There are two input on this system, the add book input design, and the
search catalogue input design. The format applies to all the categories of
book addition in the library.
Title
Author
Date of Publication
Publisher
ISBN
Shelf
Pagination
VALIDATE CLEAR CANCEL
Fig. 4.1 Add Book To Library Form
4.5 THE SEARCH CATALOGUE DESIGN
The search is of two types; search by Author and Search by the Title of the
book.
Search by Author
Author
Search by Title
Fig. 4.2 Search Form
4.5 JUSTIFICATION
Visual Basic 6.0 is chosen as the choice of programming language because
of its flexibility and ease in developing the user‟s interface. It is object

oriented, event-driven and has the ability to access database from
applications like Ms-Access, Ms-Excel, Dbase III and IV, FoxPro.
Therefore, it is suitable for the researcher‟s work
4.6 MENUS AND SUBMENUS
This software consists of three categories of menus: Main submenus and
sub-menus, which in turn comprise many sub modules and functions that
perform the required operations.
4.7 THE MAIN MENU
The main menu consists of five (5) submenus, which are respectively
below.
1. FILE
2. VIEW
3. LIBRARY OPERATIONS
4. EXIT
Fig 4.3 Main Menu
4.7.1 THE SUBMENU
The first four submenus have their respective submenus, which are
shown below.
1. REGISTER MEMBERS
2. ENTER RECORD OF BOOKS
1. VIEW REGISTERED
3. EXIT
MEMBERS
Fig 4.5 View Service
Fig. 4.4 File Service
1. SEARCH FOR BOOKS
1. BORROWING SECTION
2. AVAILABLE BOOKS
Fig 4.7 Sort Service
Fig 4.6 Library Operations
4.8 SYSTEM IMPLIMENTATION
In this section, we shall present the main program itself (i.e Digital
Library Services System), giving source listing of the program, which shows
various modules, subroutines, functions, menus, submenus and controls that
perform library operations as required.
4.9 CHANGE-OVER PROCEDURE
To change over from the current system to the proposed system, a
number of procedures may be employed. These include:
(i) DIRECT CHANGE-OVER PROCEDURE
This involves shutting down the old system completely, and switch
over to the new system. It is however not advisable because if there is a
problem, we cannot fall back on any system since the old system has
been completely shut down.
(ii) PHASE CHANGE-OVER PROCEDURE
Here, we might implement registration of users with the new system
while all the other operations will be normally carried out until we are
sure that it functions very well before we integrate another operation.
This is done in phases, but is safer.
4.10 SYSTEM SPECIFICATION
The system specification is treated under two sub-headings: hardware
and software specifications.
(i) HARDWARE SPECIFICATION
The software package requires any IBM/IBM compatible compute with at
least hard-disc capacity of 540MB to be able to run windows operating
systems. Also require a minimum of 650k f free memory, floppy disc drive,
CD-ROM drive, SVGA monitor for elegant display and mouse for selection
of options.
(ii) SOFTWARE SPECIFICATION
The software requires Windows 95 or higher versions of windows
operating systems. It also requires Visual Basic Compiler and Microsoft
Access for database manipulation. Vb 6.0 is the choice of programming
language because of its flexibility and ease in developing the user‟s
interface. It is object oriented, event driven and has the ability to access
database from applications like MS-Aces, MS- Exel, Dbase III and IV, Fox
pro.
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATION
5.0 SUMMARY
This study shows that efficiency could be achieved in the library
operations. The product of the study, ONLINE LIBRARY SERVICES
SYSTEM, has successfully brought ease and efficiency to existing system,
which is characterized by manual, time consuming and rigorous processes. It
is very student-friendly. The researcher also incorporated graphic user
interfaces (GUI) to enable the users appreciate the software package.
However, full implementation of this system by any library will
reduce the operational hardship encountered during the use of the manual
mode of operation. The system will;
i. An efficient book management which will also provide security of the
library books.
ii. Reduction of workload of the library attendant.
iii. Minimal usage of time locating books in the library.
The Online Library Services System is an easy to use school library
automation software program. This library program is also a favorite for
church library applications. It incorporates cataloguing, circulation and
inventory, all in one package. Library automation has never been easier.
In fact, this project work can be considered a work well done.
5.1 RECOMMENDATION
Having clearly tested and observed that the package provides a great
improvement on the existing library system. I therefore, confidently
recommend it to any academic institutions, organizations or establishments
that need effective and efficient academic library system. Due to lack of
time, I was unable to use pictures of different textbooks in this design and
also content registration of books in the library. But this will be properly
implemented if attention is given to the following areas:
a) Staff training
b) Conversion to the new system
This has three phases:
(i) Equipment Conversion:
This involves installation of computer system and its accessories.
(ii) File Conversion:
This involves transferring of the existing manual file into computer
readable files.
(iii) System Conversion:

This involves the actual change over from the old to the four (4)
changeover procedures.
c) Evaluation:
This enable one to know how the system is working and how well it is
meeting the original budget, goals, specification, schedule and so on.
From such evaluation comes adjustment that will prove the system.
d) Maintenance:
The system should always be maintained.
5.2 SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
With time and usage, the requirement of the organization may change,
therefore, equipment installation and implementation of a working system is
not the end of the system analysis and design, there is need for maintenance
to ensure that the system continually meets the objectives or achieved its
specific goals.
In order to achieve this maintenance goal, the system monitoring
methods should be employed. These involves the monitoring of the system
during/ or after implementation by observing and measuring the efficiency
of the procedures.
In each run, for the procedure of monitoring, it is important to
determine the following:
i. The number of record input and /or output.
ii. The activity of files.
iii. The time taken (measured by real time check).
In some cases the correction might include the introduction of a new
module to substantiate the existing ones.
5.3 SUGGESTED AREAS FOR FURTHER STUDIES
We shall suggest that future studies on this topic should do a
feasibility study to ensure that this software package is implemented on a
wider scale so as to give room for exchange of information and library
materials between this system and other library systems within and outside
the vicinity, irrespective of the distance.
Also effort could be made to improve on the new system so as to
confirm with the every day development in the information world.
5.4 USER’S MANUAL
ONLINE LIBRARY SERVICES SYSTEM software is designed to
perform library operations automatically and effectively. It is designed to be

interactive with graphical users interface (GUI). It does not acquire rigorous
protocols, to be utilized. Below is a guideline on how to use the software:
a) Turn on the computer system and allow booting process to be
completed by the computer.
After the booting, you will see on the screen, a window‟s environment
with many icons and start button. Among the icons is Digital Library
Services System icon.
b) Move your mouse pointer to the library icon (or through the program
menu) double click on it. This will usher you into Digital library
environment with inscription “WELCOME TO ONLINE LIBRARY
SERVICES SYSTEM”.
c) Type in the correct password and the system takes you to the main
window with four (4) menus. Click on any of the menus and there will
appear dropdown menus (submenus).
d) Select and click on any of the dropdown menus according to the
operation you want to perform.

REFERENCES
Paepcke, K., Cousins, S. B., Garcia-Molina, H., Hassan, S. W., Ketchpel, S.,
Roscheisen, M., & Winograd, T. (2001). Using Distributed Objects for
Online Library. U.S.A: John Wiley & Sons.
Bill, M. (2006). The Amazing Internet Challenge. Chicago: Adventure
Works Press.h
Chen, J. P. (2001). An Overview of Modern Library Management. Chicago:

Posco Press.
Edward, A. F. (1999). The Online Libraries Initiatives – Update and
Discussion. Massachusset: It Press.
Green, D. I. (2002). The Online Library. Boston: Prose Ware Press.
John, J. (2003). Promising Directions in virtual Library Development. New
York: Consto Press.
http://ai.eecs.umich.edu/people/wellman/pubs/Building- UMDL.html,
(1999). http://dli.grainger.uiuc.edu.
Frew, J., Freeston, M., & Kemp, et al. The Alexandria Digital Library
Testbed. D-Lib Magazine, Vol. 2, No. 8, August 1996.
John, W. (1956).Shera Josse H D-Lib Magazine, Vol. 2, No. 2 (1985).
Computer, Vol. 32, February 1956.
James, M. (2007). Centre for Digital Library Research. New York:
Proseware, Inc.
James, E. (2008). Selection For Digital Conversion in Academic Libraries.
New York: Contoso Press
Khan, R. E. (1998). The Online Library Project. New York: Adventure
Works Press.
Koehler, A. E. (2000). Some Thoughts on the Meaning of Open Access for

University Library Technical Services. New York: Prose Press.
Kilgour, R. A. (1986) Digital Library,” D-Lib Magazine, Vol. 4, No. 12,

December 1998.
Lancaster, K. (1974). Project, D-Lib Magazine, Vol. 2, No. 8, August 1996.
Lorraine, M. (1973). From the Editor: Metrics and the Digital Library,” D-
Lib Magazine, Vol 33.
Mike, A. B. (2001). Internet Public Library. New York: Gibson Press.
Kahn, R. & Wilensky, M. (1993). “A Framework for Distributed Digital

Object Services,” D-Lib Magazine, Vol. 1, No. 5, May 1995.
Robert Wedge worth. (1973). Perspective,” D-Lib Magazine, Vol. 4, No.
7/8, July/August 1998.
Stefano, P. (2001). European digital Library. New York: Europa Press.
V. Ogle and R. Wilensky, “Testbed Development for the Berkeley Online

Library Project,” D-Lib Magazine, Vol. 2, No. 7/8, 1996.
W.Y. Arms, E. A. Overly, M. Restoj, and C. Blanchi, “An Architecture for

Information in Digital Libraries,” D-Lib Magazine, Vol. 3, No. 2,
February 1997.
APPPENDIX A
PROGRAM SOURCE CODES
Frmviewmenber
Dim ado As New ADODB.Connection
Dim rs As New ADODB.Recordset
Dim st As New ADODB.Recordset
Private Sub cmdsch_Click()
rs.MoveFirst
x=0
While Not rs.EOF
x=x+1
If rs(3) = UCase(txtsch.Text) Then
txtres.Text = x
Exit Sub
End If
rs.MoveNext
Wend
MsgBox "libraryNo not found", , "sorry"

End Sub
Private Sub cmdsearch_Click()
st.MoveFirst
x=0
While Not st.EOF
x=x+1
If st(3) = UCase(txtsearch.Text) Then
txtresult.Text = x
Exit Sub
End If
st.MoveNext
Wend
End Sub
Private Sub Form_Load()
ado.Open "Provider=Microsoft.Jet.OLEDB.4.0;Data Source=" & App.Path
& "\libsys.mdb"
rs.Open "select * from studreg ", ado, adOpenDynamic, adLockOptimistic

st.Open "select * from staffreg ", ado, adOpenDynamic, adLockOptimistic
'code for 1st tab
grid.ColWidth(0) = 500
grid.TextMatrix(0, 0) = "s/no"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 1) = "firstname"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 2) = "Lastname"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 3) = "department"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 4) = "libraryNO"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 5) = "regNo"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 6) = "faculty"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 7) = "level"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 8) = "programme"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 9) = "phoneNo"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 10) = "Address"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 11) = "Picture"
i=0
While Not rs.EOF
i=i+1
grid.TextMatrix(i, 0) = i
grid.TextMatrix(i, 1) = rs(0)
rs.MoveNext
Wend
'code for 2nd tab
xgrid.ColWidth(0) = 500
xgrid.TextMatrix(0, 0) = "s/no"
xgrid.TextMatrix(0, 1) = "Firstname"
xgrid.TextMatrix(0, 2) = "Lastname"
xgrid.TextMatrix(0, 3) = "department"
xgrid.TextMatrix(0, 4) = "LibraryNo"
xgrid.TextMatrix(0, 5) = "Address"
xgrid.TextMatrix(0, 6) = "Faculty"
xgrid.TextMatrix(0, 7) = "phoneNO"
xgrid.TextMatrix(0, 8) = "Picture"
i=0
While Not st.EOF
i=i+1
xgrid.TextMatrix(i, 0) = i
xgrid.TextMatrix(i, 1) = st(0)
st.MoveNext
Wend
End Sub
Private Sub Form_QueryUnload(Cancel As Integer, UnloadMode As
Integer)
ado.Close
frmmain.Enabled = True
End Sub
Frmsearch
Dim st As New ADODB.Recordset
Private Sub cmdsch_Click()
rs.MoveFirst
x=0
While Not rs.EOF
x=x+1
If rs(3) = UCase(txtsch.Text) Then
txtres.Text = x
Exit Sub
End If
rs.MoveNext
Wend
End Sub
Private Sub cmdsearch_Click()
st.MoveFirst
x=0
While Not st.EOF
x=x+1
If st(3) = UCase(txtsearch.Text) Then
txtresult.Text = x
Exit Sub
End If
st.MoveNext
Wend
End Sub
& "\libsys.mdb"
rs.Open "select * from studreg ", ado, adOpenDynamic, adLockOptimistic
st.Open "select * from staffreg ", ado, adOpenDynamic, adLockOptimistic
'code for 1st tab
grid.TextMatrix(0, 0) = "s/no"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 2) = "Lastname"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 3) = "department"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 4) = "libraryNO"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 5) = "regNo"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 6) = "faculty"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 7) = "level"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 8) = "programme"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 9) = "phoneNo"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 10) = "Address"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 11) = "Picture"
i=0
While Not rs.EOF
i=i+1
grid.TextMatrix(i, 0) = i
rs.MoveNext
Wend
'code for 2nd tab
xgrid.TextMatrix(0, 0) = "s/no"
xgrid.TextMatrix(0, 1) = "Firstname"
xgrid.TextMatrix(0, 2) = "Lastname"
xgrid.TextMatrix(0, 3) = "department"
xgrid.TextMatrix(0, 4) = "LibraryNo"
xgrid.TextMatrix(0, 5) = "Address"
xgrid.TextMatrix(0, 6) = "Faculty"
xgrid.TextMatrix(0, 7) = "phoneNO"
xgrid.TextMatrix(0, 8) = "Picture"
i=0
While Not st.EOF
i=i+1
xgrid.TextMatrix(i, 0) = i
st.MoveNext
Wend
End Sub
Integer)
ado.Close
End Sub
Frmsplsh
Dim i As Integer
i=0
End Sub
Private Sub Timer1_Timer()
i = i + 20
pg.Value = i
Label2.Caption = i & "%" & " complete"
If i = 100 Then
frmsplsh.Hide
frmpass.Show
Timer1.Enabled = False
Exit Sub
End If
End Sub
Frmadd

Dim rst As New ADODB.Recordset
Private Sub Command1_Click()
rs.AddNew
rs(0) = Text1.Text
rs(1) = Text2.Text
rs(2) = Text3.Text
rs(3) = Text4.Text
rs(4) = Text5.Text
rs(5) = Text6.Text
rs(6) = Text7.Text
rs(7) = Text8.Text
rs(8) = Text9.Text
rs(10) = Text10.Text
rs(11) = "nobody"
rs(12) = Text11.Text
rs(9) = Text12.Text
rs.Update
rs.Requery
MsgBox (" Registration Successfully:")
Text1.Text = ""
Text2.Text = ""
Text3.Text = ""
Text4.Text = ""
Text5.Text = ""
Text6.Text = ""
Text7.Text = ""
Text8.Text = ""
Text9.Text = ""
Text10.Text = ""
Text11.Text = ""
Text12.Text = ""
End Sub
Private Sub Command2_Click()

Unload Me
End Sub
& "\libsys.mdb"
rs.Open "select * from items", ado, adOpenDynamic, adLockOptimistic
End Sub
Integer)
ado.Close
End Sub
Frmborrower
Dim rst As New ADODB.Recordset

Private Sub cmdad_Click()
rs.AddNew
rs(0) = txtfname.Text
rs(1) = txtlib.Text
rs(2) = txtbk.Text
rs(3) = txtcp.Text
rs.Update
rs.Requery
grid.Clear
grd.TextMatrix(0, 0) = "firstname"
grd.TextMatrix(0, 1) = "librarynumber"
grd.TextMatrix(0, 2) = "bookttitle"
grd.TextMatrix(0, 3) = "copynumber"
txtfname.Text = rs(0)
txtlib.Text = rs(1)
txtbk.Text = rs(2)
txtcp.Text = rs(3)
i=0
While Not rs.EOF
i=i+1
grd.TextMatrix(i, 0) = rs(0)
rs.MoveNext
Wend
End Sub
Private Sub cmdadd_Click()
rst.AddNew
rst(0) = txtname.Text
rst(1) = txtlname.Text
rst(2) = txtlibno.Text
rst(3) = txtmem.Text
rst(4) = txtbook.Text
rst(5) = txtcopy.Text
rst.Update
rst.Requery
grid.Clear
grid.TextMatrix(0, 1) = "lastname"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 2) = "librarynumber"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 3) = "membertype"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 4) = "bookttitle"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 5) = "copynumber"
txtname.Text = rst(0)
txtlname.Text = rst(1)
txtlibno.Text = rst(2)
txtmem.Text = rst(3)
txtbook.Text = rst(4)
txtcopy.Text = rst(5)
i=0
While Not rst.EOF
i=i+1
grid.TextMatrix(i, 0) = rst(0)
rst.MoveNext
Wend
End Sub
Private Sub cmdcl_Click()
txtfname.Text = ""
txtlib.Text = ""
txtbk.Text = ""
txtcp.Text = ""
cmdad.Enabled = True
End Sub
Private Sub cmdclear_Click()
txtname.Text = ""
txtlname.Text = ""
txtlibno.Text = ""
txtmem.Text = ""
txtbook.Text = ""
txtcopy.Text = ""
cmdadd.Enabled = True
End Sub
Private Sub cmddel_Click()
If rst.EOF Then
rst.MovePrevious
End If
rst.Delete adAffectCurrent
rst.Update
rst.Requery
grid.Clear
grid.TextMatrix(0, 1) = "lastname"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 2) = "librarynumber"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 3) = "membertype"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 4) = "bookttitle"
grid.TextMatrix(0, 5) = "copynumber"
txtname.Text = rst(0)
txtlname.Text = rst(1)
txtlibno.Text = rst(2)
txtmem.Text = rst(3)
txtbook.Text = rst(4)
txtcopy.Text = rst(5)
i=0
While Not rst.EOF
i=i+1
rst.MoveNext
Wend
End Sub
End Sub
Integer)
ado. Close
End Sub
APPENDIX B
SAMPLE INPUT FORM

DESIGN - AND - IMPLEMENTATION - OF - AN - ONLINE - LIBRARY - SYSTEM Having

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

DESIGN - AND - IMPLEMENTATION - OF - AN - ONLINE - LIBRARY - SYSTEM Having

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

DESIGN - AND - IMPLEMENTATION - OF - AN - ONLINE - LIBRARY - SYSTEM Having

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

CHAPTER ONE

1.1 LIBRARY SYSTEM

A library can be defined as a room or building where books are kept

and referenced. It is an area of multifarious activity on book management. A

library as a repository of knowledge, houses collections of books, both

reference and general, technical reports, periodicals, journals, conference

information contents of any of the collections can be recorded on

microfilms, audiotapes, microchips and other materials traditionally kept in

the library, which is charged with the responsibility of acquiring, organizing,

The acquisition, cataloguing, bindery and circulation sections of the

library undertake the acquiring, organizing, maintaining and circulation of

the books/library materials respectively. When the library through the

carefully studied and given catalogue number before it will be sent to

is responsible for circulation or distribution of books.

This section also arranges the consulted books in the shelves.

questions and bibliographic service, and serial section where periodical,

collections and also operates circulation

control in which books are lent to users. In fact it is indeed a place of

multifarious activities on book management.

1.2 STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

In human endeavors, there are a lot of developments, researches, and

discoveries, which result in multifarious production of publications and

library materials. These have brought increase in complexity of library

system and its operations.

(i) Unnecessary delay in library processes.

(ii) High cost of staff recruitment and maintenance.

(iv) Inefficiency in library operation.

(vi) Unreliable card catalogue system.

(vii) Mutilation of books by students i.e. students tear/hide books.

1.3 OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY

assisted by computerization. The objective of this project: Design and

Implementation of Oline Library Services System with a reference to

Caritas University Library. The application program developed in this

research essentially monitors and keep records of the individual book

movement together with the operations going on in various sections of

the library particularly concerned with book control. These operations

include book lending, returning of the borrowed books, reservation of

books, acquisition processes, registration of users and other related

activities in Library management system.

In this study therefore, the researchers hope to accomplish the

To solve the problem of delay in locating books.

Assist the Liberian to carry out library operations more

Eliminate manual operations in the library.

To achieve high efficiency in the library services.

1.4 SCOPE OF THE STUDY

books in the library system. The researchers concentrated on the operations

going on in the Acquisition, cataloging and most especially, circulation

sections in the library.

1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

designed to bring efficiency in the library system operations. It will

library management, which include cost of equipment and staff maintenance

and also allow institutions to manage the affairs of libraries easily.

1.6 LIMITATION OF THE STUDY

conveyance of books etc, this section is not part of this study.

1.7 DEFINITION OF TERMS

DESIGN: It is a detail plan or arrangement to achieve a particular

A SYSTEM: It is an assemblage of interrelated elements, which we find

interesting to study. It could be a process, a machine or a program.