The integrated library system ORACLE Libraries

Abstract

In recent years several well known library automation systems have been installed in Hungarian libraries. One of them, ORACLE Libraries, is presented. Its description covers the general characteristics of the system, its fourth-generation environment, relational database management, hardware independent applications, system architecture, module operations, input screen structures and search techniques. In addition, important practical guidelines for librarians are described, including management of standardized data, acquisitions, cataloguing, readers's records, circulation, serials management and cost management. The ongoing development of ORACLE Libraries, one of the world's principal database management systems, remains rapid. Multimedia OPAC, Marc based import of records, online ordering (based on the BIC/EDIFACT protocol extensively used in business transactions), and novel concepts of shared database management, all represent the advanced information technology of the 90s, and present new opportunities for libraries in Hungary through the implemention of ORACLE Libraries.