A Critical Analysis of Library Computerisation at the Copperbelt University, Zambia

The paper takes a critical look at the computerisation project at the Copperbelt University Library, Zambia. It argues that while the idea to automate may appear to a large extent to have been driven by the desire to catch up with modern trends to use computers in information management, there were indeed peculiar institutional conditions that necessitated the computersation of the library. The inaccurate costing of the project was seen as a major setback in that it was accomplished at the expense of a small and outdated book collection, and other information resources. Selection of Stylis as the main software for library automation is viewed as a costly mistake as its continuity is very much uncertain. While the basic computer infrastructure and library Local Area Network has been laid, the internal operations are seen as being at variance with professional expectations. Lack of Internet access by professional librarians and the single PC for Internet use by library users are seen as obstacles to the smooth operation of a computerised library network. The non-availability of PCs for CD-ROM use by the public is also seen as a negative phenomenon that needs redress. The lack of cooperation between the University of Zambia Library and the Copperbelt University Library in their computerisation projects is seen as a missed opportunity for beneficial networking. The paper concludes that automation at the Copperbelt University Library is only partially accomplished. Af. J. Lib. Arch. & Inf. Sc. (2003) 13, 133-15