In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, libraries must embrace automation and integrated systems to improve efficiency, enhance user experience, and ensure seamless access to resources. The Library Automation and Integrated Library Systems (ILS) Training Course is designed to equip library professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to transition from manual processes to automated systems. Participants will learn how to implement, manage, and optimize ILS platforms to streamline cataloging, circulation, acquisitions, and reporting. This training will empower libraries to operate more effectively, deliver better services, and meet the demands of a digitally connected world.

Target Audience
This course is tailored for:

• Library professionals, administrators, and managers aiming to implement or enhance automation systems.
• IT specialists supporting library technology infrastructure.
• Archivists, catalogers, and other information professionals transitioning to automated workflows.
• Students and educators in library and information science programs seeking practical knowledge of ILS.
• Decision-makers responsible for procuring and managing library technology solutions.

Course Objectives
By the end of this training course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the fundamentals and benefits of library automation and ILS.
• Evaluate and select appropriate ILS platforms based on institutional needs and resources.
• Implement and configure an Integrated Library System for cataloging, circulation, acquisitions, and other library operations.
• Manage bibliographic data using international metadata standards such as MARC21 and Dublin Core.
• Streamline library workflows through automation to improve operational efficiency and service delivery.
• Develop user-friendly online public access catalogs (OPAC) to enhance resource discoverability.
• Utilize analytics and reporting tools within ILS to track library performance and usage.
• Ensure data security, backup, and disaster recovery for library systems.
• Integrate ILS with emerging technologies such as mobile platforms, cloud computing, and RFID.
• Foster digital literacy and train library staff and users on automated systems.

This course combines theoretical insights with hands-on practice, enabling participants to confidently lead automation initiatives and future-proof their libraries.

Duration:           5 Days

Course Content

Introduction to Library Automation and Integrated Library Systems

• Definition, purpose, and benefits of library automation.
• Overview of Integrated Library Systems (ILS) and their key components.

Understanding Library Management Software

• Features and functionalities of popular ILS platforms (e.g., Koha, SirsiDynix, Alma).
• Open-source vs. proprietary systems.

System Selection and Procurement

• Evaluating library needs and resources.
• Criteria for selecting an ILS platform.
• Budgeting and procurement processes.

Metadata Standards for Library Automation

• Introduction to MARC21, Dublin Core, and BIBFRAME.
• Managing bibliographic and authority records.

Cataloging and Resource Description

• Automating cataloging processes.
• Using ILS for item-level resource description and classification.

Circulation and Patron Management

• Automating borrowing, returning, and reserving resources.
• Managing user accounts and privileges in an ILS.

Acquisitions and Serials Management

• Automating acquisitions workflows.
• Managing serials subscriptions and e-resources.

Online Public Access Catalogs (OPAC)

• Designing and customizing user-friendly OPAC interfaces.
• Enhancing resource discoverability through search tools and filters.

System Configuration and Customization

• Configuring system settings for institutional workflows.
• Customizing modules and user interfaces.

Data Migration and Integration

• Strategies for migrating data from manual systems to an ILS.
• Integrating ILS with other systems (e.g., learning management systems).

RFID and Barcode Integration

• Implementing RFID and barcode technology for resource tracking.
• Benefits of RFID in automated circulation and inventory management.

Analytics and Reporting Tools in ILS

• Using ILS analytics for performance tracking.
• Generating and interpreting reports to improve library operations.

Cloud-Based ILS and Remote Access

• Overview of cloud-based ILS solutions.
• Ensuring remote access for users and staff.

Data Security and Backup Strategies

• Protecting patron and bibliographic data.
• Backup solutions and disaster recovery planning.

Training and Change Management

• Preparing staff for transitioning to automated systems.
• Promoting digital literacy among library users.

Emerging Trends in Library Automation

• Mobile integration, AI, and machine learning in library systems.
• Adopting future technologies to enhance library services.

Each module is designed to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ensuring participants can effectively implement and manage automated library systems.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement.

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request.

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 5 working days before commencement of the training.

Course Booking

Please use the “book now” or “inquire” buttons on this page to either book your space or make further enquiries.