AN AUTOMATED LIBRARY CIRCULATION SYSTEM FOR MAKERERE BUSINESS INSTITUTE

Description

The study was carried out at Makerere Business Institute. The aim of the study was to design an automated library circulation system for MBI 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 materials at MBI library, find out the strength and challenges of circulation system used at MBI library and to design, test an automated circulation system at MBI library and provide recommendations for implementation The study was set to collect data from 75 respondents but only 55 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; questionnaire guides, interview guides and observation guides Findings revealed that MBI library has challenges in the provision of circulation services due to a number of problems like; time consumption, difficulty in keeping statistical records, escape with books without authorization and delay in returning the information materials. The researcher recommends that in order to improve circulation services in MBI 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 be automated to over the problems in place.