Open sources software as a KOHA

Shanaka wanniarachchi

Library & information science

University of kelaniya

071-731-5800

With the recent advances in technology, there have been many unexpected breakthrough in the field of libraries. The most notable of these is the automation of the library system. Sri Lanka's computer literacy has improved dramatically A workaround has been the last decade. Library automation is the computer's main function in the library system. A variety of software is used for this purpose by the time.

•  Commercial software
•  Free software
•  Open source software

But there are a number of things to consider when choosing a library software. Libraries have to buy these software for automation. These are very expensive.

example:

           Libsys Software - This software is distributed by Info Tech which is about

           2 Million people.

           ALOS - One Hundred Thousand Software’s distributed by SLITE.

The main purpose of selecting a software for a particular library is to quickly and easily perform the functions of the library. Several experts have suggested a number of things to consider. These things are automatic Does the kidnapper help lengths to ensure prompted does the software perform the functions required by the library?

•  How does the software support a wide range of data and files?
•  Is the software easy to use and how much does Manual support? That is, the Manual should   be  easy for the user to understand.
•  Can the database be satisfied?
•  Can the software buyer be trusted by the company?
•  Is there sufficient financing available for software services?

Especially in view of the economic situation in Sri Lanka, it is advisable to resort to open source software.

Koha is open source software. It is easily available to use online. Managing a library involves many tasks. You can use this software to get the job done efficiently. The software programming language is Perl. There are a number of modules and procedures to create it. Most of the work can be done easily and efficiently using open source software in a library. Is a complete library management system. It is also the world's first free and open source library automation system. A variety of libraries as well as volunteers and companies are involved in the development of this software. This is an integrated library open source system. Software in India is being used more successfully. The name is derived from the words of the Polynesians, the natives of New Zealand. It is a software that can be translated into many languages and has many interpretative features. The software has many features expected of an integrated library system. There are,

•  Various web features - commenting, bookmarking etc.
•  Integrated Directory Facility
•  Multiple Search
•  Handling of book circulation and disposal
•  Reception of books, Budget reports and information on pricing
•  Simple acquisition methods for smaller libraries
•  Ability to work with branch libraries

Although various types of integrated library management systems (ILMS) are available, open software has proven to be effective.

Koha features and there are performance

•  Circulation module

This enables the reader to obtain a book from the registered library as well as from any other library.

Returning library books or items from any branch. The library is able to set the rules for circulation of books according to the time period according to the reader. The circulation of books is very easy due to the use of barcodes.

•  The indexing module

One of the powerful features of the Koha software is the indexing module. One or more books can be kept fast indexing.

•  Sequence module

You can keep a schedule to review the frequency of visits Manage supplier statements, delay errors, etc. Total Receipts - Funds received as budgets and books

Simple Reception - Direct Management of Budget Matters