ALLAMA IQBAL OPEN UNIVERSITY, ISLAMABAD

(Department of Library & Information Sciences)

WARNING

1. PLAGIARISM OR HIRING OF GHOST WRITER(S) FOR SOLVING THE ASSIGNMENT(S) WILL DEBAR THE STUDENT FROM AWARD OF DEGREE/CERTIFICATE, IF FOUND AT ANY STAGE.
2. SUBMITTING ASSIGNMENTS BORROWED OR STOLEN FROM OTHER(S) AS ONE’S OWN WILL BE PENALIZED AS DEFINED IN “AIOU PLAGIARISM POLICY”.

Course: Integrated Library Automation Systems (9210)

Level: BS-LIS Semester: Spring, 2025

Please read the following instructions for writing your assignments. (AD, BS, B. Ed, MA/MSc, MEd) (ODL Mode).

1. All questions are compulsory and carry equal marks but within a question the marks are distributed according to its requirements.

2. Read the question carefully and then answer it according to the requirements of the questions.

3. Avoid irrelevant discussion/information and reproducing from books, study guide or allied material.

4. Handwritten scanned assignments are not acceptable.

5. Upload your typed (in Word or PDF format) assignments on or before the due date.

6. Your own analysis and synthesis will be appreciated.

7. Late assignments can’t be uploaded at LMS.

8. The students who attempt their assignments in Urdu/Arabic may upload a scanned copy of their handwritten assignments (in PDF format) on University LMS. The size of the file should not exceed 5MB.

Note 1: Use your own words while working on your assignment. In case of quoting any fact or statement from any source, always remember to provide full reference of the source according to “APA 6^th ed available at:

https://ijolis.aiou.edu.pk/?page_id=251.

Note 2: Students at this level are expected to use multiple sources in solving this assignment. All questions carry equal marks.

Note 3: Study guide of this course and links to free resources to solve this assignment are available at LIS Department website:

https://lis.aiou.edu.pk/

Total Marks: 100 Pass Marks: 50

Assignment No. 1

(Units 1-5)

Q.1 What factors should libraries prioritize when evaluating open-source vs. commercial software options and how can libraries ensure the chosen software is scalable and adaptable to future needs? (20)

Q.2 What role do customer support and software updates play in improving the long-term experience for library users? (20)

Q.3 How do RFID and barcode technologies improve inventory management and user check-outs in libraries and what are the advantages of integrating RFID over traditional barcode scanning in modern library systems? (20)

Q.4 What contract terms should libraries focus on when negotiating software procurement to protect their interests? (20)

Q.5 What specific types of data conversions should academic libraries plan and include in the timeline of their Integrated Library System (ILS) projects, ensuring a clear and detailed approach to this process? (20)

Total Marks: 100 Pass Marks: 50

Assignment No. 2

(Units 6–9)

Q.1 How can social media and online platforms improve communication and engagement between libraries and their users? (20)

Q.2 What are the key components that should be included in an RFP to ensure transparency and clear expectations for the vendor and how can a library ensure that the RFP covers both technical requirements and customer support considerations?

(20)

Q.3 How does the acquisition of a new ILS impact library workflow and patron services and what features should a library prioritize in an ILS to improve resource management and accessibility? (20)

Q.4 How would you manage the migration of library data from the old system to the new ILS? What are the critical considerations and steps in this data transition process? (20)

Q.5 What are the key features of the Koha Integrated Library System, and why is training essential for its successful implementation in a library? What challenges can proper training help overcome during the adoption of Koha? (20)