This underlies the entire LAS,
providing the interactions between the LAS and the
hardware.
Database management
system
This is what the OPAC and most
other LAS software modules are based on.
Online Public Access Catalog
(OPAC)
An electronic library
catalog.
Cataloging module
For original cataloging of
library materials as well as downloading cataloging
information.
Acquisitions module
For ordering and tracking the
orders of books.
Inter-library loan (ILL)
module
For sending requests for loans
of library materials and tracking those requests.
Serials module
For ordering and tracking the
orders and reception of periodicals.
Circulation module
For checking out and tracking
the circulation of library materials to patrons.
Reserves module
For checking out and tracking
the circulation of library materials to patrons.
Communications support
Local area network (LAN)
software
Links all the terminals,
printers, and communications equipment with the
It is worthwhile noting
that several LAS software modules (such as cataloging,
OPACs, acquisition, and ILL) utilize the Internet to
facilitate functions that require remote use, access, or
links to the systems of other organizations.
The vast majority of LAS
have added World Wide Web (http protocol) support in the
last few years.
Systems administration
module
For managing the LAS and
producing reports on the functioning of the hardware and
software.
Administration
module
Usually includes the
ability to collection information on and create reports on
the various library functions (acquistions, book
expenditures, etc.) made possible by the LAS.
Notes:
These modules are often bought as
a unit, but, in many systems, some modules are available
separately.
As noted before, virtually all
LAS modules are dependent on an underlying database or series of
databases.
Also important to most LAS is a
"client-server" architecture.
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