Professional Documents
Culture Documents
1. Students.......................................................................................................................28
2. Library Staff.................................................................................................................28
3. Administrators..............................................................................................................29
User Interfaces.................................................................................................................33
Hardware Interfaces.........................................................................................................34
Software Interfaces..........................................................................................................34
4.0 Appendices......................................................................................................................35
Functional Scope.......................................................................................................3 8
Technical Scope.........................................................................................................38
Scope Limitations.......................................................................................................38
Out of Scope..............................................................................................................38
2. System Overview...............................................................................................................39
4. Software Design................................................................................................................4 3
5.1 Database....................................................................................................................48
Major Entities and Attributes......................................................................................48
3.3 Librarian.....................................................................................................................52
4. Database Design...............................................................................................................52
4.1 Entities.......................................................................................................................53
4.2 Relationships.............................................................................................................5 3
4.3 Schema......................................................................................................................53
6. Security Considerations.....................................................................................................53
7. Deployment Guidelines......................................................................................................53
Review...................................................................................................................................54
TESTING.....................................................................................................................................55
1. Introduction........................................................................................................................55
1.1 Goals and Objectives................................................................................................55
1.2 Scope.........................................................................................................................55
1.3 Major Constraints.......................................................................................................56
2. Test Plan...........................................................................................................................56
Manage books...........................................................................................................6 8
Adding books.............................................................................................................69
Issuing books.............................................................................................................69
Managing requested books.......................................................................................70
Book requests............................................................................................................71
Issued books..............................................................................................................71
3.2.4 Fine management...................................................................................................72
Project proposal
INTRODUCTION
Background
Bahati Bookshop is an institution that manages book lending through the traditional
method which is paper-based and inefficient in tracking and managing books. In today's
digital age, the demand for efficient and user-friendly systems is on the rise. The Library is
facing
challenges in managing their book collections and facilitating easy access to students. To
address these challenges, I propose the implementation of a comprehensive Book
Lending System (BLS). This system aims to streamline book borrowing processes,
enhance user experience, and promote a culture of reading and knowledge sharing.
PROBLEM STATEMENT
The existing system is a traditional book lending system which is often cumbersome,
paper-based, and lacks the flexibility to meet the diverse needs of modern libraries
and institutions. Common issues include:
● Manual Data Entry - Traditional systems often rely on manual data entry for cataloging,
issuing, and other tasks. This can be time-consuming and error-prone, leading to
● Resource Allocation - Libraries must allocate resources for tasks like manual
cataloging, issuing, and recovery, which can be resource-intensive.
● Lack of Real-time Information - Traditional systems may not provide real-time
PROPOSED SOLUTION
The Libre University Book Lending System will change the way the library manages book
lending procedures. The system is a modern Book Lending System that replaces
traditional, manual methods of book management. It will streamline and automate various
processes
User Accounts - Users can create accounts with their credentials, enabling
easy identification and tracking of borrowed items.
Fine Management - Automates the calculation and collection of fines for overdue
items, streamlining the process and reducing disputes.
Borrowing and Reservations - Users can browse the catalog, request, reserve items,
and borrow books digitally. The system manages due dates and reservations seamlessly.
Reporting and Analytics - Offers reporting tools for library administrators to analyze
usage data, track trends, and make data-driven decisions.
User Experience: Offers a user-friendly interface and enhances the overall experience
with features like recommendations.
Cost Savings: Reduces administrative costs and the need for physical storage space.
Data-Driven Decision-Making: Provides valuable insights into user behavior and book
usage.
OBJECTIVES
The new Libre University Book Lending System is intended to achieve the following
objectives:
General objective
The primary objective of this project is to design, develop, and implement a robust Book
Lending System that will revolutionize the book lending process, making it more efficient
and user-friendly.
specific objectives
To provide a user-friendly interface that simplifies book searching, reservation, borrowing, and
return processes. Users should be able to effortlessly access and interact with the system,
fostering a positive experience.
To automate cataloging, inventory tracking, and item availability updates. Library staff
should spend less time on manual data entry and more on value-added services.
Cost Reduction
To reduce administrative costs associated with manual processes, such as cataloging and fine
management. The library should achieve cost savings and allocate resources more
efficiently.
Data-Driven Decision-Making
To offer reporting and analytics tools for library administrators to track usage trends and
make informed decisions. Library management should be able to optimize resource allocation
and collection development.
To facilitate a smooth transition for users from the traditional system to the digital lending
platform. Students should embrace the new system and find it at least as convenient as the old
one.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Introduction
In an era marked by rapid technological advancements and a shift toward digitalization, libraries
and educational institutions have faced the challenge of adapting their traditional book lending
systems to meet the changing needs and expectations of users. This literature review explores
the evolution of library management systems and the emergence of digital lending platforms,
The shift from traditional to digital libraries has been a significant trend over the past two
decades. Libraries have been increasingly integrating digital resources, including e-
books,
e-journals, and multimedia content, into their collections. This shift has necessitated the
development of robust digital lending platforms to facilitate the borrowing and access of these
resources.
"Libraries in the Digital Age" by Joseph Janes highlights the transformative impact of digital
technology on libraries. The study emphasizes the need for libraries to provide digital
services that align with the changing information-seeking behaviors of users. Digital lending
platforms emerge as a crucial component in this transition.
User-Centric Approaches
User-centric design and user experience have gained prominence in the development of
digital lending systems. Researchers like Nancy Fried Foster, in her work "Studying Students:
The
Several challenges have been identified in the literature regarding the implementation of digital
lending systems. Issues related to copyright compliance and digital rights management are
often discussed. The work ofKenneth D. Crews, such as "Copyright Lawfor Librarians and
Educators," addresses the complexities of copyright in the digital realm. These legal
considerations have a direct impact on the availability of digital resources in lending platforms.
The adoption of digital lending systems has not only influenced user experiences but has also
transformed library operations. "Library Automation and Digital Library Practices" by
Jonathan Lazar and Michael Takats describes the automation of cataloging, inventory
management, and
real-time availability tracking made possible by digital systems. These efficiencies free up
library staff for more value-added tasks.
The Role of Big Data and Analytics
Emerging trends also include the application of big data and analytics in library systems.
Researchers likeShubhangi Bhattacharya, in her work "Big Data Analytics for Libraries:
A Review," explore how data analytics can help libraries make data-driven decisions,
improve resource allocation, and enhance user experiences through personalized
recommendations.
In response to the challenges and opportunities presented by digital lending platforms, libraries
are actively exploring ways to adapt and innovate. Initiatives such as the "Open Library"
project, which aims to provide free digital access to millions of books, exemplify efforts to
expand digital lending access.
Conclusion
The literature reviewed here underscores the evolving nature of library management systems and
the pivotal role of digital lending platforms in shaping the future of libraries. User-centric
design, legal considerations, operational efficiency, data analytics, and adaptation to emerging
trends are all integral aspects of modern library systems. Understanding these trends and
challenges is
crucial for libraries and educational institutions as they strive to provide seamless,
accessible, and user-friendly book lending services in the digital age.
Two similar book lending systems that have been developed and are widely used are Koha
and Evergreen. Both are open-source library management systems that cater to libraries and
Koha
Strengths
Open Source - Koha is open-source software, which means it is freely available for use and
can be customized to meet the specific needs of a library or institution.
Active Community - Koha has a vibrant and active community of users and developers,
which leads to regular updates, bug fixes, and the development of new features.
Weaknesses
Evergreen
Strengths
Stability - Evergreen has a reputation for stability and reliability, making it an attractive
option for libraries seeking long-term solutions.
Weaknesses
adaptable, allowing libraries to grow and evolve with changing needs, emerging
technologies, and future trends in library services.
Compliance with Copyright and Digital Rights - The system will incorporate robust digital
rights management and copyright compliance mechanisms, ensuring that all digital resources
are licensed appropriately, reducing legal risks.
METHODOLOGY
Research Methodology
The development and implementation of the Book Lending System will follow a
structured methodology that includes:
Requirements Gathering and Analysis - Conduct interviews and surveys with students
and library personnel to understand their needs, preferences on a book lending system.
Observation - Observe how students and library personnel interact with the system in real-
life scenarios.
Regulatory compliance review - Engage legal experts to review the system's compliance
with regulations ensuring that it meets all necessary legal requirements.
Literature review - Review existing literature on book lending systems, similar solutions
to gather insights and best practices.
Usability testing - Conduct usability testing sessions with representative users (students and
library personnel) to gather feedback on the system's user interface, navigation, and overall
user experience.
Surveys and Questionnaires - Administer surveys and questionnaires to students and library
personnel to gather feedback on their experience, including aspects like security,
convenience, and efficiency.
Development Methodology
The Libre Library Book Lending System will follow the Waterfall method. The Waterfall
Model is a traditional and linear approach to software development, where each phase of the
project
follows in a sequential order, with one phase completing before the next one begins.
Software Development and Testing - write the code for the software components,
including the user interface, database interactions, and back-end logic. Carry out
rigorous testing including unit testing, integration testing, and system testing. Fix issues
and bugs.
including user manuals and tutorials to assist users in navigating the system and
resolving common issues.
Deployment and Ongoing Support - After thorough testing and user training,
deploy the Book Lending System to production servers. The system is made
accessible to
librarians and end-users, and real-world usage begins. Perform Regular backups,
security monitoring, and performance optimization.
PROJECT CONSTRAINTS
The Libre University Book Lending System will revolutionize how the institution manages
book lending.
objectives
scope boundaries
Constraints
Exclusions
Physical hardware procurement or upgrades (e.g., new servers or barcode scanners).
Assumptions
Stable Internet Connection - The system assumes that users have access to a stable
internet connection to browse the catalog and request for books.
User Responsibility - Users are assumed to be responsible for returning borrowed books on
time and adhering to library policies, including fine payment when necessary.
User Internet Access - The system assumes that users have internet access and necessary
the
devices (e.g., computers, smartphones, tablets) to interact with the digital platform.
BUDGET AND RESOURCES
Budget
The following budget estimate is outlined and may change with time as system requirements
and scope increases.
● Reference Link:
http://www.someshwar.kolekar.info/UploadPdf/LIBRARY%20MANAGEMENT.pdf
“Library Management System Using C++" by Divyanshu Srivastava and Sambit Bikas Pal.
● Reference Link:
● This paper discusses the design and implementation of a library management system
with a focus on automation and user experience.
● Reference Link:https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/7307272
● Reference Link:
https://www.tutorialspoint.com/library_management_system /index.htm
SRS
1.0 Introduction
1.1 Purpose
The purpose of this Software Requirements Specification (SRS) is to outline the
functional and non-functional requirements for Libre University Book Lending System.
It
is intended to serve as a reference document for students,library
administrators,developers and all parties involved in the development of the system.
1.2 Scope
The system to be developed is Libre University Book Lending System.
The University Book Lending System will encompass the following functionalities
and capabilities:
1. Book Procurement:
○ The system will not manage the process of acquiring new books for the
library. This responsibility remains with the library staff outside the system.
2. Financial Transactions:
○ The system will not process financial transactions, such as fines for
late returns or book purchases. Any monetary transactions will be
handled through separate channels.
3. Content Management:
○ The system will not be responsible for managing the content or digital
copies of books. It will focus solely on tracking physical book copies
within the library.
The primary benefits and objectives of the University Book Lending System are
as follows:
2. User Convenience:
○ Enhance the user experience by providing students with a user-
friendly platform for browsing, reserving, and checking out books.
communication.
6. Compliance and Security:
○ Maintain compliance with university policies regarding data access and
security, safeguarding user data and ensuring a safe and secure
environment for all system users.
● DB: Database
● OS: Operating System
User Interface
Application
Database (DB)
The University Book Lending System will perform a range of detailed functions to
ensure the efficient management of the library's book collection and to enhance the
user experience. The following is an in-depth description of these functions:
1. User Registration and Authentication:
○ Allow new users to create accounts by providing personal information,
such as name, student ID, and contact details.
9. Accessibility Features:
。 Implement accessibility features to accommodate users with disabilities,
including support for screen readers, alternative text for images,
and adaptable font sizes.
1. Students
General Characteristics:
2. Library Staff
General Characteristics:
3. Administrators
General Characteristics:
Sources of Inputs:
Destination of Outputs:
1. User Dashboards: Where users view their account information,
book reservations, and due dates.
● Reservation requests: Book details (e.g., ISBN), user details (e.g., user ID).
● Report data: Depends on the specific report type, typically numerical data or
text summaries.
Timing:
● Report generation: Ranges from a few seconds for simple reports to minutes
for complex analytics, depending on data volume and system load.
3.1.2 Processing
● During system errors or failures, the system will display alert messages
and potentially log the error for system administrators.
● Report generation uses algorithms and queries to retrieve and aggregate data.
● User notifications use email services to send messages to users.
● Validation of input data relies on rule-based checks for data consistency
and integrity.
User Interfaces
3. User Dashboard:
○ A user-specific web page displaying information such as checked-
out books, due dates, and user account details.
4. Administrative Console:
。 A secure web-based interface for administrators and library staff to
manage the system.
。 Includes tools for catalog management, user management, reporting,
and system configuration.
Hardware Interfaces
Software Interfaces
Other Requirements
● Frequency of Use: The system should be designed for daily use, with multiple
concurrent users.
● Accessing Capabilities: The system should support access from a range
of devices, including desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
● Static and Dynamic Organization: The user interfaces should be designed
for easy navigation, with dynamic elements like search filters and real-time
● Operations:
○ Interactive Operations: Users should be able to perform interactive
actions like searching for books and making reservations in real-
time.
4.0 Appendices
After doing some research in Libre University all the parties (students,administrators
and library staff) were optimistic that once developed the new system will revolutionize
all the library activities.
Sample Data:
1. Overview
1.1 Purpose and Scope
The purpose of the Libre University Book Lending System is to provide a platform for
students and faculty to borrow and return books from the university's library. This
SDS outlines the design and architecture of the system.
Functional Scope
The functional scope of the system includes:
Technical Scope
The technical scope includes the use of modern web-based technologies, database
management,and secure user authentication. The system should be accessible
from various devices and browsers.
Scope Limitations
The system will not handle financial transactions, such as book fines. It will also
not integrate with external library systems.
Out of Scope
The following functionalities are out of scope:
● Integration with external payment systems.
● Integration with external library databases.
3. Managing All the Book Issues: Focuses on the processes associated with
book borrowing, returns, fines, and overdue book management.
processes, cataloging, and generating comprehensive reports about all books within
the library.
students or members.
Level 2 dfd
3. System Architecture
● User
central pivot that connects the mobile application (users) to the database.
Users: The users represent the human aspect of the automated system,
categorized into different types as previously outlined in the
documentation. They access the system primarily through the mobile
application, requiring a designated account for system access. Each User's account
is specific to their status, roles, and user type, ensuring
ELSE
Display Error: Unauthorized Access
END
4.1.3 Managing Users
This process is dedicated to administrative user management within
the Libre University Book Lending System.
1. Open Application:
• The admin initiates the application.
2. Navigate to Administrative Functions:
• Accesses the personal page offering various administrative
• Block/Deactivate User:
• This action disables the user's account,
preventing access to the system.
ELSE
Display Error: Unauthorized Access
END
5. Database Design
5.1 Database
1---n Relationship
1. Books Table:
• A data table containing all books managed within the library system,
Data dictionary
The system will use SQL queries to access and modify the database.
Database updates will occur through SQL INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE
statements, ensuring data consistency.
6. Human Machine Interface
The UI will include forms for user registration, book management, and
user management, with appropriate input validation and error handling.
6.2 System Output Design
The UI will display book lists, user details, and notifications, with clear and user-
friendly layouts.
The system will include authentication and authorization mechanisms to ensure data
integrity and security. It will also have regular backup procedures to prevent data
loss.
8. References
Software Design Document (SDD) Templates:
IMPLEMENTATION
1. Introduction
1.1 Purpose
The purpose of the Libre University Book Lending System is to provide an efficient and
user-friendly platform for students and faculty members to borrow and return books from the
university library. The system aims to streamline the book lending process, reduce
administrative workload, and enhance the overall library experience.
1.2 Scope
The scope of this document encompasses the technical details and implementation guidelines
for the Libre University Book Lending System. It covers the system architecture, user roles,
2.1 Overview
The system architecture of Libre University is based on a three-tier architecture:
● Presentation Tier: The user interface accessible through web browsers and mobile
devices.
● Application Tier: The business logic and functionality of the system, implemented using
PHP,CSS and HTML.
● Data Tier: The database where user data, book records, and transaction history are
stored, using a relational database management system (RDBMS) MYSQL.
● Backend: PHP
● Database: MYSQL
3. User Roles
3.1 Student
● Borrow books
● Return books
4. Database Design
4.1 Entities
● User
● Book
● Transaction
● Reservation
4.2 Relationships
4.3 Schema
6. Security Considerations
7. Deployment Guidelines
Training involves making sure that users are fully conversant with how the system works
despite providing the user manual to the enterprise management. These will include providing a
system tour on the whole system and making the users participate throughout the whole
process.
Additionally, the application will provide a platform on which the users can raise issues
for assistance.
2. A User manual accessible from the application to be available for users who want
to refer to it.
Review
This is a process of verifying whether the application is in order. This is meant to ensure that
the application is acting normally and as prescribed by the configurations in place.
Part of the application review is the software maintenance plan. This is an elaborate and
continuous system that allows the developer and the system owners to track the progress of
an application to determine how the application is performing. This can be used to help back
track the application to its original course by rectifying errors as their come up.
Software maintenance can also be used to add functionality to the application for it to be
more productive. There are different modes of software maintenance as discussed below;
rectifying misleading information. In this case this would mean corrective measures
to minimize errors.
2. Adaptive maintenance – this means altering of the program to be in line with required
3. Perfective maintenance – this is for adding functionality to the application for more
1. Correcting coding and design errors – this is done when there is an issue of the
delivery of the system, particularly not being in terms with what the system is supposed
to
achieve.
2. Updating documentation/ test data – this is the additional of not included data in
prior documentations e.g. Addition of extra source code and its functionality.
1. Necessary to keep up with the changing user needs and operational environment.
4. A well maintained software results to a more reliable system and with faster
response time.
TESTING
1.2 Scope
1. Introduction
The primary goal of testing the Libre University Book Lending System is to ensure
its reliability, functionality, security, and performance. The objectives are to identify
and
rectify any defects, validate the system's compliance with requirements, and assess
its overall quality.
1.2 Scope
The testing will cover all components and features of the Libre University Book
Lending System, including user registration, book searching, lending, return,
notifications, and administrative functions.
2. Test Plan
The software to be tested includes the Libre University Book Lending System in
its entirety, comprising both front-end and back-end components.
Unit testing will focus on testing individual components and functions within the
system, ensuring each works as intended.
Results
credentials
Integration testing will verify that the different components interact seamlessly and
that data flows correctly between them.
process
systems
Validation testing will confirm that the system meets the specified requirements and
is user-friendly.
Checks
privacy
user flows
Recovery testing will ensure the system can recover gracefully from
unexpected failures, including power outages, server crashes, or data
corruption.
Recovery testing is the forced failure of the system in a variety of ways to verify
that recovery is properly performed.
1. Switching off server when the application is loading data after that
checking the validity of applications data integrity.
2. Sudden restarting the computer while the system is running and after
that checking the validity of applications data integrity.
3. Switching off data when the application is running and observe what happens.
Security testing will assess the system's resilience against vulnerabilities and
ensure that sensitive user data is adequately protected.
information which it receives has not been altered in transit or by other than
the originator of the information.
Stress testing will assess the system's behavior under extreme conditions to
identify potential bottlenecks or weaknesses.
3. Books access requests- the application should handle the pressure of having
a lot of people accessing Books. This will be telling of how the application can
Alpha and beta testing will involve real users to gather feedback on usability
and uncover any unanticipated issues.
2.3 Testing Resources and Staffing
This application does not require a lot of resources; the application can be deployed to
a random sample of users in Libre University which has computer labs (Beta testers).
The
device owners will then be trained on how to use the application and a study will be
conducted to determine how the users interact with the application and how well
the application responds to the user needs. The users identified should be from all
The test work products will include test cases, test scripts, test reports, and defect
logs.
All test plans, test results, and associated documentation will be maintained
for reference and future improvements.
Metrics will be collected and analyzed to measure testing progress, defect density,
test coverage, and other relevant indicators.
All testing activities, results, issues, and resolutions will be documented in a test log
for reference and future assessments.
This testing document serves as a roadmap to ensure that the Libre University Book
Lending System is thoroughly tested, validated, and ready for deployment. It
outlines the strategy, resources, and schedule for a successful testing process.
USER MANUAL
1. Introduction
Welcome to Libre University's Book Lending System! This system has been designed
to streamline and simplify the process of borrowing and returning books within the
In this user manual, you will find comprehensive information on how to use the
system effectively, from installation to borrowing and returning books. Please read
through this manual carefully to make the most of the features provided by Libre
University Book Lending System.
2. Requirements
Before you start using the Libre University Book Lending System, ensure that
your system meets the following requirements.
To run the system smoothly, your computer should meet the following specifications:
● Operating System - The system is compatible with Windows 10, macOS,
and Linux.
As a user of the Libre University Book Lending System, please ensure that you:
● Default page
● Logout page
The User or Admin can then select the appropriate part of the homepage in order to login.
3.2.2 Login pages
3.2.3 Panels
The admin can manage the book categories, he/she can edit or delete existing book categories.
Manage books
Procedure - Enter the book name,select the book category and publication, enter the ISBN
number, No of copies available and the price.
Issuing books
Procedure:
After the user has successfully logged into the system, he/she can view the books
issued, books not returned yet or request a book.
Book requests
This page allows the user to request for a book.
Issued books
The issued books page allows the user to view the book name, ISBN, issued date,return
date and any fine incurred.
3.2.4 Fine management
This page allows the admin to set the fine on a particular day.
3.2.5 Password management
This page allows the admin to change the existing password to a new password.