CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

The university Library is the heart of academic institutions, providing access to a vast array of
resources, including books, journals, and digital media (Durant & Horava, 2015). Effective
management of these resources is crucial to ensure that students and faculty members have
access to the materials they need.

Libraries remain essential knowledge and resource repositories in the digital age, supporting
learning and intellectual development across communities. The Book Lending Information
System (BLIS), a complete web application created to improve the entire patron experience and
expedite the process of borrowing and returning books, is a cornerstone of effective library
management. A significant development in contemporary library management, the Library Book
Lending Information System harmonizes traditional library services with cutting-edge technical
capabilities. BLIS lets libraries achieve their goal of educating and enriching diverse populations
by streamlining resource administration and improving user engagement.

Within the library ecosystem, BLIS is essential to promoting improved accessibility and user
engagement. Customers may simply browse the library's catalogue, find the materials they want,
and manage their online borrowing activities thanks to its user-friendly layout and powerful
search features. Self-service features of the system allow users to renew books, put holds on
things, and get alerts regarding the availability of reserved books and their due dates.
Additionally, BLIS makes it easier for users to access digital materials remotely, allowing
libraries to reach a wider audience and meet a wider range of needs and preferences than ever
before. By placing a strong emphasis on accessibility, the library guarantees that all community
members can take advantage of its resources and services while also promoting inclusivity.

BLIS's analytical powers, which offer insightful information on user behaviour and library
operations, are another noteworthy feature. Library directors can make data-driven decisions
about collection development, resource allocation, and service upgrades by examining
circulation patterns, popular genres, and borrowing trends. These insights aid in the planning of
outreach initiatives and customized services based on community interests and preferences, in
addition to optimizing the administration of physical and digital collections. Hence, BLIS gives
libraries the ability to continually enhance their programs and adjust to changing user needs,
enhancing their standing as vibrant centres of learning and knowledge in the digital era.

In recent years, barcode technology has revolutionized inventory management across various
industries. By leveraging this technology, we can create a more efficient and effective library
management system. This project aims to design and implement an online barcode reader system
for library, enabling the efficient scanning and management of books, tracking of inventory, and
access to book information.

1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

Traditional methods of managing library resources, such as physical books tracking in libraries
has many obstacles that are detrimental to both staff and patrons. It is often reliant on manual
processes such as paper cards and handwritten logs. The system is rife with inefficiencies,
including time-consuming operations like processing loans and returns, finding available books,
and computing past-due fines. When manual entry mistakes, lost cards, or damaged records
occur, data inaccuracy seeps in, confusing users about their borrowing statuses and making it
difficult for library staff to keep an accurate inventory. It is also difficult to track borrowing
activity, which makes it impossible to analyze user preferences, allocate resources optimally, and
pinpoint popular materials that may require extra copies. The accumulation of these problems
leads to staff members wasting time on administrative duties rather than helping clients, patrons
becoming frustrated with lengthy wait times and false information, and perhaps losing library
materials because of misplaced or unreturned items. As a result, the library's capacity to carry out
its primary goals of offering the best possible service and guaranteeing fair access to resources is
severely hindered.
1.3 AIM AND OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study is to develop a Library Book Lending Information System to improve the
efficiency of the University Library.

THE OBJECTIVES SPECIFIC ARE:

1. Analyse the existing traditional Book Lending Information System and gather System
Requirement Specification (SRS).

2. Design the system model from (i).

3. Implement the model system from (ii).

4. Test and Evaluate the system Implementation in (iii).

1.4 METHODOLOGY

1. Data gathering and collection was achieved by interviewing the staffs of the University
Library and identify the problem areas of the existing system which the system improves
upon.
2. We used a Google backend as a service BASS platform firebase for the database and the
authentication
3. System implementation was achieved by using REACT JS for local hosting, A backend as a
service the database management (called Firewall), JAVA SCRIPT LIBRARY REACT for
server script language, CSS for front end design, TAILWIND CSS for styling, and
JAVASCRIPT is the backend language.
4. Usability and performance testing was done after the system implementation.
1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

This study has significant implications for:

1. Improved Library Management: The system will streamline library operations, reduce
errors, and enhance the overall efficiency of book management.

2. Enhanced User Experience: Students, faculty members, and librarians will have quick and
easy access to book information, reducing wait times and improving the overall library
experience.

3. Increased Resource Utilization: The system will provide real-time data and analytics,
enabling informed decision-making and optimal resource allocation.

4. Cost Savings: Automation of routine tasks will reduce the workload of librarians, freeing up
resources for more strategic and creative work.

5. Scalability and Flexibility: The online barcode reader system will be adaptable to changing
library needs and scalable for future growth.

6. Model for Other Libraries: This study will serve as a model for other schools and libraries,
demonstrating the effectiveness of technology in improving library management.

7. Contribution to Research: This study will contribute to the existing body of research on
library management and technology, providing insights and recommendations for future
studies.
8. Improved Academic Performance: By providing efficient access to resources, the system
will support academic success and enhance the overall learning experience.

1.6 SCOPE AND LIMITATION

Scope of Library Book Lending Information System:

1. Manages book lending and returning processes

2. Tracks book availability and borrower information
3. Supports multiple user roles and access levels
4. Integrates with existing library management systems

Limitations of Library Book Lending Information System:

1. Technical issues or downtime may affect system availability

2. Data entry errors or inconsistencies can impact system accuracy
3. Limited customization options for specific library workflows
4. Dependence on internet connectivity for online features
5. Potential security risks if proper security measures are not implemented
6. May not be compatible with all library management systems
7. Requires ongoing maintenance and updates for optimal performance.