Integrated Library Management System (ILMS)

Integrated Library Management System (ILMS)



Integrated Library Management System (ILMS)

Introduction

 With an increased focus on return on investment for learning objects, e.g. non-duplication of effort—as well as the penetration of “knowledge silos” (Blake, 200?) for purposes of sharing and (re)combining content, we need to advance the integration of core support systems.  E-learning is not just about Learning Content Management Systems (LCMS); e-knowledge is not just about corporate systems or portals; and an Integrated Library Management System (ILMS or ILS) is not just about the Library's online catalogue. Robson (2003) describes e-knowledge as including “the fusion of e-learning and knowledge management to support the pervasive utilisation of knowledge”.  This discussion paper focuses on the Mobily of Saudi Arabia irst 'Virtua Integrated Library System Users Meet'. It examines in particular the role that the ILMS could play in such an environment. The recent and rapid evolution in the past few years of libraries, ILMS vendors and integrated library systems themselves now presents some interesting challenges—and opportunities.

Case study

Edutech Middle East in partnership with VTLS Inc. hosted on February 25, 2009 the UAE's first ever 'Virtua Integrated Library System Users Meet' at the Canadian University of Dubai. The event gathered regional users of cutting edge software and services for digital libraries, along with leading global online publishing icon.Leading the group of speakers was Ian Pattenden, International Business Development Manager of Bowler UK, the world's leading source for Bibliographic information, who shared information on the company's latest products and services during the event.

The users meet was meant to highlight the benefits of 'Virtua Integrated Library System' (VTLS) among its current users in the Middle East. The forum proved to be an apt venue to discuss ideas, best practices and other library solutions that enhance the capabilities of library management system. Participants spoke of the advantages of using VTLS, which include its user-friendliness, and its integrated functionality, which covers OPAC, cataloguing, acquisitions, serials, circulation and reporting.

Present at the event were representatives from leading universities and colleges in Dubai and Abu Dhabi including the Canadian University of Dubai; Khalifa University of Science, Technology and Research, Sharjah; Abu Dhabi University; and eTQM College, alongside officials from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Community Development; Sharjah Institute of Technology, and Dubai eGovernment. This event is truly a remarkable platform to build awareness on the newest innovations in managing and disseminating bibliographic information, and on how adopting the right solutions will help educational institutions and government regulatory bodies enhance learning among students. We would like to commend Edutech for spearheading this event, and I am hoping for the continuous success of this initiative."

Pattenden delivered a presentation that tackled the importance of powering the business of books, in addition to the need to understand modern innovations and software for libraries and how these can be used to their advantage. The opening address was delivered by Dr. William Gordon, Provost and Deputy Vice Chancellor, Canadian University of Dubai, who emphasized the importance of such an event in terms of ...