Sustainability of Open Source Integrated Library System in Selected Indian Libraries
T. K. Gireesh Kumar, B. Ramesha · E-LIS Repository (University of Naples Federico II) · 2015
Adoption or migration to Open Source Software (OSS) for building institutional repositories, creating digital libraries, automating house-keeping operation etc. are common in libraries since long as a cost effective solution. However many libraries still use commercial solutions due to result of lack of sufficient knowledge in the benefits of using OSS; particularly Open Source Integrated Library System (OSILS). This study investigates the attitude of potential SOUL software users in Indian libraries towards the adoption of OSILS. The main reasons for SOUL users not adopting OSILS for their libraries is also studied. An attempt is made to figure out the level of satisfaction of SOUL users with the features and functional modules of the software and their opinions on the various aspects of OSILS. From the data analysis and observations it was found that majority of the SOUL users are interested in adopting OSILS for their libraries. But the factors preventing them from adopting OSILS are lack of technical know-how required to install and maintain the software and lack of reliable support.