Implementing the Koha integrated library system at the Independent University, Bangladesh A practical experience

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explain how the author carried out the implementation of the Koha open-source integrated library system (ILS) at the Independent University Bangladesh (IUB) Library, stated how much easy it is to implement Koha in a library and encouraged library professionals to implement Koha in their libraries. Design/methodology/approach – The paper describes the author’s practical experiences regarding implementation of the Koha open-source ILS. Findings – Koha has those functionalities which can fulfill the library automation need of the IUB Library. That is why Koha is selected. Other librarians can easily implement Koha in their libraries. Practical implications – This paper will help librarians to implement Koha in a practical way to their libraries. The author implemented Koha at the IUB Library within three months, and the author used migrated data from Computerized Documentation System/Integrated Set of Information System to MARC-21 for books and made new MARC-21 records for movies. Originality/value – The author is the youngest library professional who implemented Koha at a private university library in Bangladesh. This will influence librarians to learn Koha and implement it in their libraries. Keywords Library automation, Bangladesh, IUB Library, Koha, Open-source ILS Paper type Technical paper