Automation of Libraries with special reference to Retroconversion Process: An Evaluative Study

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to analyse the retroconversion process of documents undertaken by select libraries of New Delhi i.e., Central Secretariat Library (CSL), Zakir Husain Library (ZHL) JMI, Nehru Memorial Museum and Library. In order to conduct a qualitative and quantitative analysis, a combination of the questionnaire method along with observation and interview were used as tools for collecting the necessary data. Two sets of questionnaire were designed for the purpose of data collections. First set of questionnaire was designed for the Librarians/Directors of three respective libraries and second set of questionnaire was designed for user groups. This paper concludes that all the under studies libraries used Libsys software for the retroconversion process of the documents. CSL and NMML have completed the retroconversion process with the help of outsourced agency, whereas ZHL processed through their own staff. Most of the respondents of the under studies libraries are fully aware of library comuterisation. All the three libraries have OPAC facility for the users and most of the users are fully aware of OPAC facility. The study depicts that there should be trained library staff to help the users.