MPL pays
special attention to information technology,
which has become the primary source of information
in the 21st century. In this regard, developing
people's skills in the use of computers and
the Internet is considered one of the most
important objectives for modern public libraries
in this century.
Accordingly,
MPL has established the Information Systems
Department and recruited a number of competent
specialists, who are responsible for building
and developing the library's basic information
technology (IT) structure under the direct
supervision of the Library Director.
The
Information Systems Department is in charge
of all the responsibilities that pertain to
the following fields:
Hardware:
126 Computer
machines (PCs)
with different specifications, along with
their accessories, in the Main Library.
18 PCs
with different specifications, along with
their accessories, in Zaytoun branch.
IBM
Server Model P Series 6F0 - Used to operate
the Integrated Automated System for Libraries
"UNICORN."
Dell
Server - Used to control the internal library
network (Intranet).
The
computer peripherals, which include: Printers,
Barcode Printers, Scanners, Data collectors,
CD Writers
(CD-R),
etc.
The
Library Network and its equipment:
The
library network is composed of the servers,
the PCs,
and peripherals that were previously mentioned.
Switches are used to connect with the Intranet,
and the network is protected through a Firewall
equipment and a Network Anti-virus software. The
Main Library and its Zaytoun
branch are linked through a "leased line,"
at the speed of 64 Kbps. The library network
is connected to the Internet through the SDSL
service at the speed of 512 Kbps.
The
Library Integrated System: Operation
and maintenance of the Automated System for
Libraries (UNICORN).
The
Information Systems Department keeps track
of the needs of all the library and branch
divisions for different software. The department
is responsible for the software setup and
updating, as well as training the staff on
its use, and troubleshooting the technical
problems that arise during its operation.
The
Library Website on the Internet:
The
concerned division of the Information Systems
Department carries out the function of designing
the MPL website on the Internet, uploading
the relevant library data and information
on the site, updating these data in cooperation
with the concerned divisions of the library,
and following up on the data updates. This
division is also responsible for updating
the look of the website, such as it would
be in line with modern developments in Internet
websites. Answers
to all queries pertaining to the library can
be found on the website. This includes information
on the library system, the library divisions,
the activities and services it provides, etc.
The Library's online catalogue (OPAC)
can also be accessed through the website. The
newly designed website was made available
online in July 2003, along with its various
pages. It replaces the former website, which
was launched in mid 2001. Library members
and users may send their remarks and comments,
along with their requirements for improving
the website.
Databases:
The
Information Systems Department is busy with
securing the requirements of the library
divisions to build various databases that
would simplify their works, such as: The
Internet Unit's database, the multimedia
collection database, the database of the
library holdings of machines and equipment,
and the library staff database
Addional
Tasks: The
additional assignments at the Information
Systems Department include the following:
Providing
the E-points on the computers dedicated
to this service.
Providing
the appropriate software programs on the
computers dedicated to operating the multimedia
materials (CDs).
Digitization
of the videotape recordings of the library's
cultural activities, and make it available
online through the digital library.
Developing
the library staff skills in making use
of modern computer and Internet innovations.
Participate
in the training programs conducted by
the library.
