Virtual Library Management vs. Traditional Libraries: What’s the Best?
When I was doing my graduation, there was a time when I used to spend nearly 4 hours daily at the library.
The librarian sorting out books, ‘Maintain Silence’ written on every other corner, some students like me exploring books for reading, some students issuing books for preparing notes…
This was how a typical day at the library looked like at that point in time.
Students who passed out from schools or colleges a decade ago might relate to what I am saying.
And if you belong to the new tech-savvy Gen-Z, chances are, you might not even understand what I am saying!
You might have seen a different world when I say the word — ‘library’, right?
Indeed, the definition of the library has gone digital & global!
Today, virtual library management has taken the place of the traditional library management system. Almost everything is automated & handled with the help of college ERP or school ERP systems integrated with library automation software. There’s a big shift in how a library works.
So, is the virtual transition good or is it bad as compared to the traditional libraries?
Let’s explore & find out what’s the best…
#1: Library Data Management with No Physical Boundaries
A digital library provides global support to students studying in schools, colleges, doing research, K12 faculty involved in teaching, and scholars across a multitude of disciplines.
The greatest advantage of virtual libraries is that it doesn’t require you to be present physically.
Whether you are a librarian residing in London or India, you have the right to access, manage, and handle the information with a few clicks of a button from anywhere.
#2: Simplifies Operations with Automation Element
Right from the cataloguing of books to accessioning and getting the best quote from booksellers, the library management system is a pro in handling all the library operations!
It streamlines, organizes, compiles, and stores the library-related information in the digital format.
Unlike traditional library management methodology, the librarians don’t need to spend hours & hours managing piles of library records!
As you know, the NEP 2020 policy says that institutions would be multidisciplinary, having a digital library management system could be an added advantage.
#3: Easy Storage & Retrieval of Information
Losing student data or institution related information is probably the biggest nightmare of school & college faculty.
And the fear multifold when things boil down to digital library management.
Practically speaking, with the increasing number of students in institutions, manual work is not a good idea. And with situations like COVID-19, the option of manual library management is an impossible dream to achieve.
If you’re an online educator, the best step you can take is investing in a user-based access system with 100% data safety & security features.
#4: OPAC & M-OPAC for Ease of Book Search
Students often complain of the hefty time consumption in searching library books.
The library software provides 24*7 exclusive accesses to library information & digital books, e-content, etc search via the web application — OPAC (Online Public Access Catalog) or the mobile application M-OPAC (Mobile-Online Public Access Catalog).
There are a total 2.6 M libraries across the world!
On average, if a library patron spends 60 minutes in book search daily, calculate how much time it would take for millions of patrons for book searching!
Virtual library automation software is undoubtedly a win-win answer for students here!
It is the best platform to serve people with good books globally that gives wings to the dream of learners!
To Sum Up
Traditional libraries had their own charm, I agree!
But, libraries are meant for more than that!
The books & other content must reach out to students in a hassle-free way and the library automation is a blessing for librarians, students, teachers, and everyone who loves reading books & improving their knowledge!
Need more information on college and school library management software?
Get in touch with me!
