PRESENT LIBRARY AUTOMATION STATUS: OPEN SOURCE LIBRARY SOFTWARE-AN OPPORTUNITY OR THREAT?

Though the open source library management systems (OSLMS) have come to limelight in the beginning of 21st century and library professionals are well aware of its advanced feature, it is still in its infancy stage in India. Open source software has edge over commercial software as they have got continuous development, regularly updating because of community involvement. Although, some external agencies extending technical support for OSS, commercial software has still hold in the market. Hence, a survey has been conducted among professional institutions and universities to check market share of OSS and commercial software; usage of advanced features. This paper attempts to make an exhaustive survey, critically examine and find actual status and growth of open source library management systems.