BBAU Begins Workshop on Koha Software, Participants to Receive Training in Digital Library Management

Lucknow: Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (BBAU), Lucknow, inaugurated a five-day workshop on “Koha – An Integrated Library Management System” on October 26, organised by the Department of Library and Information Science. The programme was presided over by the Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Raj Kumar Mittal. Prof. P.P. Rawat, Consultant Professor(Library) at Kalyan Singh Super Speciality Cancer Institute, Lucknow, attended as the Chief Guest. The other dignitaries present on the dais included Prof. Shilpi Verma, Dean of the Faculty of Information Science and Technology; Prof. Sharad Kumar Sonkar, Head of the Department of Library and Information Science; and Dr. Vineet Kumar, Programme Convenor. The programme commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp and floral tributes to the portraits of Babasaheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Dr. S.R. Ranganathan. This was followed by the university anthem, after which the organising committee welcomed the Chief Guest and the dignitaries on the dais with bouquets. At the outset, Programme Coordinator Dr. Vineet Kumar welcomed all the participants and guests. Subsequently, Dean Prof. Shilpi Verma introduced the participants to the outline and objectives of the programme.

In his presidential address, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Raj Kumar Mittal stated that the present era is driven by digital technology, making it essential for students to acquire knowledge of emerging technologies and continuously upgrade their skills. He emphasised that digital technology plays a significant role in education, research and various fields of knowledge, and will also contribute substantially to the development of a future-ready India. He noted that libraries are an integral part of every educational institution and that modern technology can make library operations simpler, more efficient and better organised. In this context, he highlighted the importance of an Integrated Library Management System such as Koha, which enables the digital management of book records, information on book availability, issuance and returns, and other library-related operations. Such technology not only makes library management more convenient but also saves time and proves beneficial for students, research scholars and library personnel. Prof. Mittal further stated that workshops of this nature play a vital role in providing students and participants with practical knowledge of modern technologies and enhancing their technical competencies. He congratulated the organisers on conducting the workshop on Koha software and expressed hope that the participants would utilise the knowledge gained to advance their academic and professional development.
Chief Guest Prof. P.P. Rawat, Consultant Professor at Kalyan Singh Super Speciality Cancer Institute, Lucknow, elaborated on the functioning of Library Management Systems and their significance in the digital management of libraries. He discussed various library management software applications, their key functions and their practical applications in library operations. He explained that these software tools facilitate the systematic management of book databases, classification, cataloguing, issuance and return of books, and information regarding available resources. Referring to open-source library management software such as Koha, Prof. Rawat highlighted that the use of such digital tools can make library services more organised, accessible and efficient. He also encouraged participants to acquire technical knowledge of these software applications and enhance their knowledge and skills through practical experience.
Dean Prof. Shilpi Verma highlighted the functioning and utility of Koha and other library management software. Explaining the features of open-source software, she stated that these tools help make library operations more systematic and effective. She emphasised that the use of such software improves data accuracy, facilitates the systematic maintenance of book records, and enables better management of library resources and operations. Furthermore, these digital tools make the coordination and management of library personnel’s work more convenient. She encouraged the participants to understand the functioning of open-source software and stressed their effective utilisation for the modernisation of library services.
Head of the Department, Prof. Sharad Kumar Sonkar, stated that workshops of this kind play an important role in familiarising students with emerging technologies and enhancing their practical knowledge and skills. He emphasised that students should actively participate in such training programmes to promote continuous learning and develop technical proficiency. He assured the participants that the department would make every possible effort to organise similar workshops in the future, providing students with regular opportunities to learn new technologies, gain practical experience and continuously expand their knowledge.
Towards the conclusion of the programme, the organising committee expressed its gratitude to the Chief Guest and faculty members by presenting them with mementoes and shawls. Dr. Nitesh Kumar Verma delivered the vote of thanks.
Prof. K.L. Mahawar, Dr. Somipem R. Shimray, other faculty members, research scholars and students were present on the occasion.

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