Computerizing Academic Libraries with Open-Source Software: Enhancing Access and User Engagement
Keywords:
Academic Libraries, Open-Source Software (OSS), Library Computerization, Digital Libraries, Integrated Library Systems, User Engagement, Information Access, Koha, D Space, Library Automation, Data Analytics, Institutional RepositoriesAbstract
Academic libraries are undergoing rapid transformation in response to the digital revolution and evolving user expectations. Traditional library functions centered on physical collections are increasingly being complemented by digital resource management, remote access services, data analytics, and collaborative learning environments. One of the most significant drivers of this transformation is the computerization of library operations using open-source software (OSS). OSS offers cost-effective, flexible, and community-driven alternatives to proprietary systems, enabling academic libraries to modernize services while aligning with the values of openness, inclusivity, and knowledge sharing.
This paper explores the role of OSS in computerizing academic libraries and examines its impact on enhancing access, service efficiency, and user engagement. Through a systematic review of relevant literature and analysis of case studies from scientific and technical domains, the study evaluates the technical, organizational, and social dimensions of OSS adoption. Key platforms such as Koha, Evergreen, and D Space are discussed in terms of their core functionalities, including integrated library systems, digital repositories, discovery tools, analytics, and user personalization features.
The findings indicate that OSS-based library systems significantly improve resource discoverability, enable 24/7 remote access, support personalized services, and foster collaborative learning environments. Additionally, community-driven development models promote innovation, sustainability, and adaptability to local institutional needs. However, challenges such as technical expertise requirements, system integration, data security, sustainability, and change management remain critical concerns.
To address these issues, the paper proposes a strategic framework emphasizing stakeholder engagement, capacity building, customization, data quality assurance, privacy protection, and continuous evaluation. The study concludes that effective implementation of OSS can strengthen the role of academic libraries as dynamic, inclusive, and user-centered knowledge hubs, ultimately increasing library usage, engagement, and institutional impact in the digital era.
References
Fingerhuth, M., Babej, T., & Wittek, P. (2018). Open-source software in quantum computing. arXiv preprint arXiv:1812.09167v1. https://arxiv.org/pdf/1812.09167v1
Kirchner, T., Gröhl, J., Sattler, F., Bischoff, M. S.,Laha, A., Nolden, M., & Maier-Hein, L. (2019). An open-source software platform for translational photoacoustic research and its application to motion-corrected blood oxygenation estimation. arXiv preprint arXiv:1901.09781v1. https://arxiv.org/pdf/1901.09781v1
Schaller, F. M., Wagner, J., & Kapfer, S. C. (2020). papaya2: 2D Irreducible Minkowski Tensor computation.Journal of Open-Source Software, 5(54), 2538. https://arxiv.org/pdf/2010.15138v1
Bi, F., Zhu, Z., Wang, W., Xia, X., Khan, H. A., & Pu, P. (2023). BotHawk: An approach for bots detection in open source software projects. Journal of Systems and Software, 00, 1–21. https://arxiv.org/pdf/2307.13386v1
