Designing an automated library circulation system for Uganda Martyrs High School Lubaga
Abstract
The study was carried out at Uganda Martyrs High School Lubaga (UMHSL). The aim of the study was to design an automated library circulation system for UMHSL library to prevent the delays and reduce time of operation every time a user borrows and returns information materials.
The objectives of the study were; to identify the types of information resources at UMHSL library, find out the strength and challenges of circulation system used at UMHSL library and to design, test an automated circulation system at UMHSL library and provide recommendations for implementation
The study was set to collect data from 201 respondents but only 181 responded positively. Several data collection methods were used by the researcher to collect data which included; observation method, interview method, and questionnaires. The instruments used by the researcher to collect information included; questionnaires, interview guides and observation guides
Findings revealed that UMHSL library has challenges in regards to circulation of library resources including; time consumption, lack of IDs by students, lack of book numbers, difficulty in keeping statistical records, lack of student details, escape with books without authorization and delay in returning the information materials.
The researcher recommends that in order to improve circulation services in UMHSL library, the library should endeavor to train their librarians on the management of the library circulation system, purchase more equipment for circulation activities such as computers and servers and scanners, the library budget should be enhanced, the security and physical infrastructure of the library should be improved. In general, the library should adopt an automated library circulation system to over the challenges experienced while carrying the circulation function of UMHSL library.