ABSTRACTS
 

PRESENT STATE OF AUTOMATION IN THE LIBRARY OF KOSSUTH UNIVERSITY

Olga Gomba

L. Kossuth University Library
Debrecen, Hungary

Keywords: Automation, Library Automation, Kossuth University, Compu-terization

Abstract: The idea of the automation and computerization of work in our library first emerged in the early eighties. At that time the task seemed impossible to solve for the lack of the financial means.

However hopeless the situation appeared to be, the idea was not given up and we began the theoretical work of planning. In the course of this process it became clear that we should start i two main directions:

1. To build up an online information service relying on international databases;

2. Computerization of library processing work and services.

 The first task seemed to be easier to implement, so, making use of our modes funds (grant from a national foundation), around the middle of the eighties we began to lay the foundations of a prospective system. At the same time we built up online connection with the most important databases (e.g. Dialog, Orbit, STN International, etc.).

The second task was harder and more expensive. We began experimenting with small units. We also began to elaborate a library software specially designed for some aspects of our library work. After the initial steps this process turned out to be a blind alley.

So we availed ourselves of the opportunity offered by Unesco free of charge, that is the ISIS software. This proved to be useful within certain limitations. It is not network-friendly and was not designed to serve a library system. On the other hand, it was suitable for cataloguing our stock (e.g. periodicals, Hungarian industrial catalogues, etc.). It was also helpful in training our staff for several fields of automation.

This was the point when it was indispensable to take a large step forward, now in three fields.

a) Building up the network. Part of the desired network has been implemented (Ethernet network between the Computer center and the Central Library). However, the major part of the task complete intra-university network, urban backbone network connecting the member institutions of the Universitas) has not yet been fulfilled.

b) We have purchased a VAX 6000 server unit and about 30 terminals. The task of the future is to double the present capacity and establish similar systems in the member institutions of the Universitas.

c) The situation is worst in our supply with software. We can not improve our system without acquiring an integrated library system. We have made serious efforts to attain this aim.

 All these developments were possible due to grants won through applying to several foundations and participating in projects (such as Mellon Foundation, Development Fund for Hungarian Higher Education etc.). The further development will be made possible with the help of the World Bank project "Catching up with Europe."