17-10-2017, 09:41 AM
An integrated library system (ILS), also known as library management system (LMS), is a business resource planning system for a library, which is used to track orders made, invoices paid and customers that have provided.
An ILS generally comprises a relational database, software to interact with that database, and two graphical user interfaces (one for clients, one for personnel). Most ILSes separate software functions into discrete programs called modules, each integrated with a unified interface. Examples of modules may include:
• acquisitions (orders, receipts and invoicing materials)
• cataloging (classification and indexing of materials)
• Circulation (loan of materials to clients and receipt of them)
• serial publications (tracking magazine, periodicals and periodicals)
• the OPAC (public interface for users)
Each user and element has a unique identification in the database that allows ILS to track its activity. Larger libraries use an ILS to sort and acquire, receive, and invoice, catalog, circulate, track, and archive materials. Smaller libraries, such as those in private homes or non-profit organizations (such as churches or synagogues, for example), often waive the costs and maintenance required to run an ILS and, instead, use a library computer system.
An ILS generally comprises a relational database, software to interact with that database, and two graphical user interfaces (one for clients, one for personnel). Most ILSes separate software functions into discrete programs called modules, each integrated with a unified interface. Examples of modules may include:
• acquisitions (orders, receipts and invoicing materials)
• cataloging (classification and indexing of materials)
• Circulation (loan of materials to clients and receipt of them)
• serial publications (tracking magazine, periodicals and periodicals)
• the OPAC (public interface for users)
Each user and element has a unique identification in the database that allows ILS to track its activity. Larger libraries use an ILS to sort and acquire, receive, and invoice, catalog, circulate, track, and archive materials. Smaller libraries, such as those in private homes or non-profit organizations (such as churches or synagogues, for example), often waive the costs and maintenance required to run an ILS and, instead, use a library computer system.