9 Planning and acquisition of equipment

Dr Anil Dhiman

1. Introduction

 

A common term ‘library equipment’ that usually contains ‘library furniture and equipment’ both is used simultaneously. Library furniture usually is of made of wooden and metals, but the plastic furniture is also increasingly coming into use. If we talk about the equipment only, they can be made of metals and sometime of plastic only; but most of the time they usually consists of metals.

 

Function, maintenance and appearance are important selection criteria for furnishing and selection of equipment. But a librarian should have following factors in mind while undertaking the selection of furniture and the equipments (Khanna, 1984).

  •  Flexibility of arrangement is desirable; build in furniture and equipment such as the exhibition cases and load desks would be avoided as these are not easily moved or expanded in future.
  • Where it is possible book shelving should be standardized so that the parts easily interchangeable as furniture should also be purchased in groups of uniform size. Table, chairs, counters and desk led themselves to such treatment.
  • Comfort, durability and variety should be sought especially in furniture, although the quality for durability should apply generally to equipment as well.
  • Economy and ease of maintenance should be there.
  • Colours and materials should be coordinated so as to provide an attractive and inviting atmosphere in harmony with the purpose of library.

Besides, one must determine what the furnishing should accomplish for the scrupulous library involved. It should also believe what is accessible in the market or what can be obtained to fulfil the necessities determined. As far as possible, create the selections and purchases based on the necessities comprising of the primary structure exploit, age of the users, amount of exploit expected, kinds of material to be stored, organized and displayed, number of staff members and the changes anticipated in future. And also on the function thoughts – what exploit will be made of the thing, who want to exploit it, how long the thing will be used and maintenance required. An input from staff and also by visiting other recently constructed facilities in other libraries may also be sought in this regard. Overall, the library furniture must be functional, durable, beautiful, easy to clean and maintain.

 

2. Library Furniture and Equipment

 

Whether the furniture and equipments are purchased readymade or being taken through the local manufactures as per the standards, the library requires following two types of the furniture and equipments (Krishan Kumar, 1982).

  • Movable furniture and equipment
  • Fixed equipment

 

2.1. Movable Furniture and Equipment

 

A wide range of items may be required depending upon the local circumstances in practice. But a suggestive list of the items under this category is given below

 

2.1.1. Items for Public Area

 

These items consist of tables, chairs, shelving, counters and desks, filing cabinets and exhibition cases etc.

 

2.1.2. Items for Work Rooms

 

These items consist of office computers, work tables, desks, chairs, shelving and charging tray and book trolley/trucks.

 

2.1.3. Equipments for specialized Service

 

These items may consist of audio-video tapes, photographic instruments including Xerox machine and computer assisted machines and computers themselves.

   2.1.4. Additional Items

 

These would depend upon the local requirement of the library.Besides, book rack, book display racks, periodical display racks, periodical racks, newspaper stands, dictionary stands, pamphlet filling cabinets, vertical filing cabinets, cabinet for maps and exhibition cases are also required in a library.

 

2.2. Fixed Equipment

 

They are not movable and most of the time, they are build up / installed once only. Most of the fixed equipments include the following items.

 

2.2.1. Lighting

 

Proper and adequate lighting is very essential in libraries, because a poor light may strain the eyes and may causes fatigue. On the contrary, a glare light is equally strenuous. Further, direct sunlight on the books is positively harmful; however, maximum advantage should be taken of natural sunlight. But it should be judiciously complemented with artificial light and as such the glare of the sun inside the structure should be avoided.

 

So a provision of proper lighting is essential that should be taken into consideration early at the ‘building programme’ state. The following factors are the determinants of a proper lighting system (Sahai, 2009).

  • Effects of ceiling heights
  • Nature of the fixture
  • Relative advantages and cost of incandescent and fluorescent lighting
  • Kind of lighting needed for specific area in the building.

 

Above factors are related to the economics of an illumination system which is an important consideration. As a rule, the lighting must be distributed uniformly. It is also important to keep in view that stacks must be well lit so as to provide sufficient light for book shelves especially lowest as well as the highest ones.

 

Functional lighting should also be provided in the study carrels. Further, required level of illumination should be achieved by combining natural day lighting and the artificial lighting. The combination of this will lead to the economy. Therefore, the designing of a lighting system should be such as to provide permanent artificial supplementary lighting in addition to possible adequate day light in order to create an intimate and inviting atmosphere in libraries.

Emergency lighting systems supplied by batteries or generators must be provided in the library to continue supply of the electricity in case of failure of electricity.

 

The librarian should endeavour to obtain the best illumination possible for his building, although this problem has never been satisfactory as yet. However, ‘Indian Standards on Library Building Design’ and ‘Indian Standard Specification for Library Furniture and Fittings’ may be consulted for this purpose.

 

2.2.2. Heating, Cooling and Ventilation

 

Air – conditioning keeps the library cool during the summer and warm during the winter season. So, proper air conditioning of building must be done for heating, cooling, and ventilation. The main object of air conditioning is to keep the library reasonably cool in summer and warm in winter, but in India, air conditioning is considered as a luxury. However, the studies show that comfortable place of work increases the efficiency of the staff and also help the readers to study with concentration for a long time.

 

Further, air conditioning would be useful for certain areas such as rare-book room, room storing microfilms, microfiche and micro cards and today’s for CD/DVDs and other computer output formats. Xerox room machine may also require proper installation of air-condition system. A few reading area in big library or common reading hall in small library, where access of internet and local computing facility is provided to the users, must be equipped with air-conditioning facility.

 

2.2.3. Noise Prevention

 

Noise means the exceeded volume of voice, instruments and other things, which disturbs the environment of library use. Bell (2008) states that “Library as place” brought with it a new attitude towards noise in the library. He further adds that the challenge is to create a balanced environment that is hospitable to both those who want others to accept noise in the library and those who just want a quiet place for their studying. Generally, two types of noises are observed in any library:

  • Outside source
  • Inside source

 

As far as the outside noise is concerned, steps can be taken in the beginning while selecting the site far away from playground, music or recreational room and possibly to keep building in calm and quiet place of organization. But it does not mean that the library should be situated in a place out of the way and beyond the reach of readers. If not possible to keep the building in above mentioned area, then sound proof wall, windows and ceiling can be used to keep the library free of outside noise.

 

Inside noise is created by human voice, impact of footsteps, banging of doors, use of equipments or any mechanical device. It may also be produced by moving furniture or other such items inside the library. This type of noise can be reduced by using insulating materials and devices.

 

Flooring of tiles, or ground cork of asphalt, or of rubber are some the more satisfying flooring materials that can be used in libraries. Further, the echoing of sound can be reduced by adopting necessary techniques. Besides, the telephones, Xerox machine etc. should be kept away from reading area to reduce the noise in library reading premises.

    2.2.4. Fumigation Chambers

 

Insects and fungi are common organisms which attack books frequently, particularly in humid and warm climate. Fumigation is done to avoid damage of books from them. Fumigation equipment can also be used for the processing of incoming materials and handling the manuscripts and archival documents which are likely to be infested with pest. So, fumigation equipments are to be used but they are to be placed far away from the readers and all the materials related to fumigation can be kept there to reduce the noise. As far as possible, fumigation chambers can be built on the uppermost story of the library building.

 

2.2.5. Computer & Communication Equipments

 

Communication & computer devices, passenger lift, book lifts, fire alarm system etc. may be required in a library but the efforts should be made to keep them just away from the reading areas to minimize the noise inside the library. Telephone, fax and computer assisted equipments are essential things in modern environment, but they should also be kept far away from the readers areas. Internet access can be provided in separate room or the places.

 

3. Principles of Library Furniture and Design

 

The library furniture should be of good quality and must give the library an aesthetical and pleasant look with durability and functionality. For this, some principles of library furniture and designing are formed, which should be followed when a library plans to purchase or acquire them. Sahai (2009) has detailed out them as under:

 

3.1. Material

 

The material used for the furniture should be selected on the basis of the durability, resistance to wear and tear, adaptability to different finishing techniques and the cost & beauty.

 

3.2. Construction

 

The construction of the furniture should be as such as withstand abrasions and impact and the joints are fully tight.

 

3.3. Comfort

 

The furniture should be designed in such a way so that they could provide comforts to the

users.

 

3.4. Finishing and Colouring

 

The finishing of the furniture should be surface-coated, well protected and must enhance the beauty of the articles made. Besides, the colours and the material should be combined to give attractive look which could attract the users.

 

3.5. Proper Proportioning

 

A proper proportion allows adding the symmetry and aesthetic beauty to the furniture. This is an inherent quality in the designing of the furniture, so proper proportion should be given due weightage.

 

3.6. Standard Shelving

 

Book shelving should be standardized so that the parts are easily interchangeable. Besides, the tables, chairs, and counter should be purchased from one firm in group to maintain uniformity.

 

3.7. Local Climate

 

When the selection of the furniture is done, the attention should be given on local climate so that the local climatic factors could not damage the furniture etc.

 

3.8. Mobility

 

The furniture should be easily and conveniently mobile.

 

2.9. Easy Maintenance

 

The furniture should be so durable and designed that its maintenance could be done easily.

 

3.10. Economy

 

This is the last but not the least factor to concentrate. It should be kept in mind that furniture should not only be durable and serviceable but also be economical.

 

4. Major Library Furniture

 

The following are the major items that constitute the category of library furniture:

  • Issue – return counter
  • Book Stack / Shelves
  • Book Display Rack
  • Periodical Display Rack
  • Catalogue Card Cabinets
  • Tables and Chairs
  • Newspaper Display Rack/Stand
  • Dictionary Stands
  • Atlas Stand
  • Book Trolley
  • Exhibition Cases
  • Study Carrels

Each of the above based on Dhiman and Rani, (2005), Dhiman (2008), Khanna (1984), Sahai (2009) and others are described below:

 

4.1. Issue – Return Counter

 

Issue – return counter is also known as charging desk. It is the largest service desk that is usually prepared for an individual library and very seldom bought from the market. It is mainly designed keeping in view the kind of library, available space, specific functions and size of the library. But, the counter should have sufficient drawer space to accommodate all the issued documents records. Besides, it should also have sufficient shelving space for placing books which are returned by the users in library.

 

The issue-return counter or the charging desk is invariably made of wood, and mostly have hard wearing top made of declaim or same material. Generally, the height of the counter facing the reader is 1.0 m and the width at the top is in relation to the 70 cm. Normally, the counter is intended for two persons to job at a time. Adequate knee legroom is provided at spaces where the library staff sit and job. As, high chairs are necessary to job at high counter, foot-rest is provided to create sitting comfortable. Alternatively, counter can be elevated with wooden or permanent platform. But the length and design of the counter may be modified substantially to suit the specific requirement of the library. The most popular types of the counter are Rectangular, L-formed, and U-formed etc. However, it is better to have small elements of about 90-100 cm length each that can be bolted jointly or placed face through face to provide the illusion of one piece.

 

Control gates may consist of either a single leaf door with a gravity hinge or any other similar device or turnstile. Gate should be fitted in such a way that it can be foot-operated by the staff inside the counter and the device inside shall be so located in relation to the foot rest of the operator that he can operate it with minimum of the leg.

 

Nowadays, self-check in and self-checkout (automatic issue/return system) are being used. They can also be installed over the manual issue-return counter with the provision of self-check in and self-checkout requisites. Further, automatic gates can also be installed at the exit gate through which borrowers may take out the books out of the library.

 

4.2. Book Stack / Shelves

 

Book shelving is the most important ingredient of the library; hence, it should be given top-most consideration. Book stacks are used to shelve the books, bound volumes of periodicals, other kinds of reading materials and sometimes also the pamphlets. Each stack is made of wooden or steel (mostly of steel), and is 180 cm wide, 195 cm in height and 25- 50 cm in depth depending on whether it is single sided or double sided. A number of element racks can be joined together to create a long line. The number of shelves in a rack is usually 5 or 6 depending upon the height of the rack.

Shelves come into different types – normal fixed shelves where material can be arranged in double rows; two shelves which are joined together with hinges on one side and one shelf fixed while, the other is mounted in front of the hinges. Besides, there are also rolling stacks where stacks are mounted on ball bearing wheel placed side by side.

Further, compact storage system consists of units of three stacks, the centre row of fixed double sided stacks at each side are also available, which help in increasing the capacity of the storage space. Nowadays, multitier stacks are also there, which consist of stacks from floor to the roof. Such type of the racks has become popular in very large libraries.

 

As far as the choice of metal or wooden racks is concerned, it largely depends upon the atmospheric conditions. Metal feels harder and because of its tensile strength thinner racks can be used and book storage capacity can be increased to the maximum. However, wooden racks look attractive, but they can easily catch the fire and the humidity which can damage the library collection. While selecting stacks for any kind of special library, main consideration should be to ensure maximum space utilization, user convenience and easy movement within the stack room. Normally, shelves should not be packed more than 75 per cent of the capability.

 

Nowadays, skeleton book racks which are the cheaper version of book stack are becoming much popular among the library community. These are generally made of steel with four slotted angle iron stands assembled with a shelf at the top and one at the bottom. However, there can be any number of shelves in flanked bay depending on the height of the rack and requirement. Its bottom shelf is generally placed at a height of 15 cm, usually with 90 cm width of the shelf and a depth of 15-45 cm that can be modified from 15 cm to 45 cm. Skeleton racks have the advantage of versatility, but they are aesthetically and functionally both poorer than regular steel library stacks.

 

4.3. Book Display Rack

 

Book display racks are needed to display the most recently acquired books in the library for their readers. There are different types of book display racks available in the market, which can be purchased for the library. Commonly used are: Racks – Cum Bulletin Board type and Display Troughs used for books and Portable Troughs for books which are kept on a table. But the height of the book troughs should not be more than 3 feet from the floor.

 

4.4. Periodical Display Rack

 

Periodical display racks are used for displaying recently received issues of periodicals. Libraries usually display them for attracting the users which lead to greater use of them. The methods of displaying the periodicals are determined by a number of factors, which include:

  •  Types of periodicals acquired
  •  Floor space available
  •  Layout of the library
  •  Types of users coming in the library

 

Many libraries have separate reading room where periodicals are housed and displayed, whereas in some libraries, a general reading room is offered which accommodates all types of the reading materials. However, periodical display racks may be of following types.

 

4.4.1. Pigeonhole Type

 

This is the most popular type of racks for displaying the periodicals. It has two parts -one is a cupboard in the bottom and the other pigeon holes at the top. Its overall height and width are 225 cm x 180 cm; and the depth is 30 cm in the pigeon hole and 45 cm in the button cupboard section. Each element can hold 36 journals in the pigeon hole section. The back issues of the similar periodicals are stored in the cupboard section. This type of display rack is very convenient and useful in the library but it is normally single sided and the disadvantage of this kind display rack is that the journals cannot be displayed prominently.

 

4.4.2. Step Type

 

In this kind the periodicals are displayed stepwise, each step being 5 cm deep and 15 cm high. Length of the rack is usually 90 cm. There may be 4 to 5 steps and on each step 4 to 5 journals can be displayed and on a single sided rack 20-25 journals can be displayed.

 

But double sided racks are not recommended as the element becomes too bulky. It is better to place two single sided racks back to back, if necessary for more journals. Journals are better displayed in this kind, but one great disadvantage is that back issues cannot be accommodated within the element. Normally, this type of racks is recommended to display the popular magazines in library.

 

 

4.4.3. Inclined Type

 

Inclined type of the racks is best one to display periodicals. This is a box kind rack with five or six horizontal shelves, which are sheltered through hinged wooden plank with an inclination of 30 degrees to the shelf plank. The shelves can be partitioned into pigeon holes depending on the design, each pigeon hole being provided with individual hinged wooden plank. The bottom edge of the inclined plank has a wooden head to rest the journal. The overall mass of a rack is 195 or 225 cm in height, 90 or 120 cm wide and 45 cm in depth. These racks are fairly heavy, thus, castor wheels are preferable for simple manoeuvrability.

 

The inclined plank gives a bigger display for the periodicals and the back issues are stored in the staff legroom behind the inclined plank. 25-30 periodcials can be displayed in one rack at a time.

 

4.5. Catalogue Card Cabinets

 

Catalogue card cabinets were the most used item of any library in olden times for the library staff and the users. However, small libraries can still hold the card catalogue and use card cabinets. It is a unit of card-filing drawers intended specifically to hold library cards and equipped with holding rods. The cabinet may be of wood, steel or the newer plastic material which is finding its increased acceptance. The elements approach in a range of sizes from four drawers to as many as sixty drawers.

Though readymade metal cabinets, having drawers right from the floor level are accessible, but for convenience and ease of exploit, the cabinets should be placed on stands, and the overall height of the cabinet should not be more than 1.5 m.

 

A cabinet can accommodate six vertical rows of drawers of 12.8 (W) x 7.8 (H) x 40 (L) cm dimension. Each tray can accommodate 1,000 cards of medium thickness. However, it is better to have modular cabinets, each having 24 or 30 drawers, than a monolithic unwieldy piece of furniture.

 

4.6. Tables and Chairs

 

Different types of the tables with suitable drawers are required for library staff. But the tables to be used by the readers in the reading room are larger in size and without drawers. Library tables are usually made or wooden or metal or a combination of both. However, plastic make chairs and tables are also coming which are attracting the planner to use them in libraries. For simple note taking, a surface providing six square feet is normal but for use in consulting government documents, manuscript, conductor’s scores and similar materials, surface of nine to ten square feet is suggested. However, for consulting art books, atlases, and other folio’s or portfolio’s and most microtest reading equipment, a surface of 12-15 feet is required, but the height must not be more than 29 inches and the corners should be round or blunt.

 

Besides, the chairs are required for reading hall, lounge, staff room and the seminar room etc. The chair size should be at least 26” in height with a knee height of 17” and their arms shall be 21 cm high from the seat and set back 7.5 cm from the front edge of seat. If possible, back rest shall be curved in plan and shall be not be more than 18.0 cm in height measure from the arm rest. But chairs and tables should be fitted with noise prevention rubber studs or tips in the legs to avoid noising.

 

Today’s computer access is much increased, hence appropriate tables and seat adjustable chairs are needed in computer/Internet access area for the users/readers.

 

4.7. Newspaper Display Rack/Stand

 

These racks are used to display newspapers. Newspaper racks may be of different size depending upon the types of newspapers being subscribed in the library. But being unwieldy in size, they are difficult to handle and store.

 

Besides, individual newspaper stand build of wood or the steel, for displaying a single newspaper are also bought in many of the libraries.

 

4.8. Dictionary Stands

 

Multivolume dictionaries and encyclopaedia including such other voluminous books add the beauty of the library. Hence, especially designed small racks are bought in library for displaying them. It proves not only convenient but also provides easy handling of them for the readers.

 

4.9. Atlas Stand

 

Atlases are oversized publications, therefore, they are also to be displayed on special racks.

These racks may range from 3-5 feet in height and 2.0 feet width with 2.5 feet depth.

     4.10. Book Trolley

 

Books are frequently transported from one section to another section in the library. So, it would be economical and convenient to use book trolley to carry them. Book trolley made of wood or steel can be bought in the library for such purposes. The book trolley has two pairs of sloping shelf planks, and one flat plank or one plank for books of larger size. These may be fitted with four wheels one of the swivelling types at each end and two of the fixed type at the centre. The wheels should be covered with rubber bumpers so as to prevent the noise in movement and scarring the wall.

 

The standard sizes of book trolley are 2 feet 2.5 inches (W), 2 feet 6 inches (L) and 3 feet (H). However, inclined shelves in the book trolley will be more advantageous as visibility of call numbers on the book arrangement by them adds the convenience for the staff in locating the books. Further, the trolley may be provided with two numbers of 10 or 12 mm thick longitudinal tie-rods at the levels of the upper shelves.

 

4.11. Exhibition Cases

 

Different types of exhibition cases are used to display recently received reading materials in the library to make aware the readers about them. A library may procure any suitable type of the cases as per their requirement.

 

4.12. Study Carrels

 

Study carrels are a small enclosure or space in the stack room of a library that are designed for privacy in studying or reading. They may also be formed of a cubicle or desk partitioned off for private study in a library. Carrels come in different shapes and size and they may be procured for special readers in library, who intend to sit continuously a long time and undisturbed study.

 

Thus, a library has to procure many items for furnishing the building, but there is no one way of furnishing all libraries. Many of these items require to be uniquely intended for each library, however, the possibility of built in display stands, atlas stands, and etc. can also be explored depending on the nature of the structure for library. If not possible, then furniture can be prepared inside the library on contract with required size and standards.

 

5. Library Equipments

 

Catalogue card duplicator just like the ordinary stencil duplicator which is specially designed and miniaturized for card duplication; typewriters for typing of the letters and making unit card of catalogues were also used in olden times, but they have slowly been replaced by the computer generated output of the catalogue format and office correspondence.

 

But filing equipment, record-keeping equipment, microform reading equipment, copying equipment, non-conventional indexing and filing equipment and miscellaneous supplies and equipment are still used in any type of library whether it is of small size or larger in nature.

 

5.1. Filing Equipments

 

There are various types of correspondence, newspaper clippings, patents and standards, and many more types of material that need proper filing. For them, various kinds of equipments have been designed to store them and for their quick convenient retrieval. For filing correspondence and other material in loose sheet format vertical filing cabinets with pull out drawers, or lateral filing organizations that open from the side are appropriate.

For storing pamphlets and book catalogues, boxes of several kinds made of cardboard, wood, metal or the plastic are accessible. They are of dissimilar sizes and designs-few, are open at the top and front; others have only one face open; few have a slanted opening; and few are more rigid than others.

 

Many sized and several types of microforms are there in many libraries, which range from 16 mm, 35 mm to 70 mm microfilm, microfiche and micro-opaque cards. All these formats need proper storage environment that is not too humid and should not have extreme temperature. Therefore, short strips of microfilms may be put in pockets and filed in drawers. While, longer ones are wound in spools, packed in individual cartons with paper identification and filed in drawers. Slides or transparencies also need special filing cases. Further, small collection portable slide boxes are available for small formats.

 

Microfiche should always be kept in protective covers or envelopes. But the top edges of microfiche should be visible for simple filing and identification. Then, they should be filed in steel cabinets.

 

Large steel cabinets with shallow drawers are accessible for architectural or technological drawings. Sometimes these are rolled and kept in cylindrical containers.

 

5.2. Record-keeping Equipments

 

Record-keeping equipments in the library are most used for keeping records of periodical’s current issues since they are received regularly and the back files of bound or otherwise preserved volumes. Vertical filing cabinets with drawers that can be pulled out, are used for filing correspondence etc. But the choice of equipment depends on the number of titles to be accommodated and the kind and range of users.

 

Mainly the popular manual organization is based on an element card, one for each title and complete record is noted on them. The cards are filed in special transparent holders, that is, therefore the cards overlap, leaving only the titles visible. Records of each title is accessible from the card-full title, publishers name and suppliers address, legroom for noting records of issues, note of complete holdings, and location of the holdings. It is desirable to have here subscription records-when ordered, when paid for, and when renewals are due. Equipment used for this purpose contains kardex and loose leaf binders.

 

Cards in Kardex are to be housed in protective pockets with transparent plastic tips, so that they could remain clean, flat and do not get “dog-eared”. Kardex is made of metal’s cylindrical building revolving on ball bearing and having a knob at the top and a number of metal panels. These panels where perforated strips of paper bearing the title of the journal subscribed through the library with their location are displayed. An easy loose leaf binder which looks like bank ledgers can also be used in lay of Kardex.

But with the introduction of computer assisted techniques, its use is almost discontinued in recording of periodical etc. Nowadays, computerized programmes/ automation software are installed for handling the complete record of periodicals etc.

 

5.3. Microform Reading / Audio-Visual Equipments

 

Earlier, it was significant to have documents on micrographics and micro-shaped formats, especially in special libraries. Slides, microfilms, microfiche, micro-cards and aperture cards were included under this category of documents. Microform reader, reader-printer and projector to read their contents were needed in olden times. Still many libraries may have microform reading machines for reading them. Catalogues and guides can be consulted which provide information in relation to the new micro-reproduction equipment being urbanized and marketed.

 

Some of the special libraries may still have audio-visual documents in their collection, therefore, there may be a need of procuring audio-visual apparatus to read and hear them.

 

However, nowadays, computer output facility for micro-reading is available almost in every special library, so the use of micro-reading equipment i discontinued and emphasis is being started on computer, printers and other computer output forms. Therefore, every library is expected to procure computers and related equipment in the library.

 

5.4. Copying Equipments

 

Multiple copies of the documents are often needed in a library for several purposes. Hence, it is necessary to procure some kind of equipments for making copies of materials-both typed and printed. For instance, catalogue cards and index file cards, shapes such as the routing slips and personal notification slips, library bulletin, and several other services need adequate number of copies. So, a major Photostat copying machine is thus, needed in special library for making duplicate copies of them.

 

Duplicating of the materials can also be done with the scanners, but their use is time-consuming and costly than Photostat. So for bulky duplication, Photostat machines are required.

 

5.5. Non-Conventional Indexing and Filing Equipments

 

Many mechanical devices for sorting and information retrieval in library were used in olden times. Rapid Selector and Aperture Cards combine the filing and indexing operations generally utilizing film copies of documents were also used in olden times. But their use for sorting information recorded on special kinds of cards like edge notched cards, optical coincidence cards and aperture cards has become obsolete with the increased use and exploitation of new computers.

 

Only computers and computer output forms are used in almost every types of special library, whether small or big one.

 

5.6. Name and Other Sign Boards

 

Suitable unambiguous sign and name boards are extremely significant in physical scheduling of a library. But there should be a consistency in rendering them and they should be provided in logical order with descriptive, constant and easily understandable terminology having short, clear and accurate message in suitable tone, relating them to architecture with due consideration to the principles of good design like hyper face, mass and spacing of letters, lines, contrast, exploit of representations and colour. Lastly, they should be placed at decision points.

    5.7. Computer /Computer Related Equipments

 

Today’s, computers & information technology has completely changed the scenario. Now, with the automated circulation system and the printers, the use of barcode is started. For reading the barcodes, barcode scanners are also needed to make the circulation work fast.

 

Libraries and information centers are now blessed with electronic materials and therefore libraries are gradually shifting towards the electronic libraries with electronic resources along with the rapid advancement in computer technology along with information technology. Today’s, CD/DVDs are also coming not only with the books but also as electronic books only. Further, many offline databases are also available on DVDs, therefore, special cabinets are required for storing them.

 

The use of RFID (Radio Frequency Identification Device) as antitheft mechanism and as an aid to automatic issue-return of the books is also increasing. RFID stations are installed for providing automatic check-in and check-out facility at the entrance/exit of the library.

 

Besides, Library / Information kiosk which provide 24×7 information access facility about the holdings of library and online full text journals, database and e-books are also needed to be installed in library. Automatic book return cabinets equipped with an anti-theft fitting at the bottom and with adjustable feet are also being installed in few of the special library. Soon, they will be the reality of all libraries.

 

5.8. Miscellaneous Supplies and Equipment

 

Besides the furniture and equipment enumerated above, a number of items useful for library operations are to be procured. Few of the mainly obviously needed items are:

  • Stool or ladder for reaching high shelves,
  • Storage cabinets-metal ones for office supplies and ones with glass doors for restricted documents,
  • Electric stylus for script on the spines of the books,
  • Revolving stands,
  • Vacuum cleaners,
  • Bulletin boards, etc.

Thus, a due consideration should also be given to above mentioned equipments.

 

6.  Standards and Specifications

 

There exist many standards or specifications worldwide that have evolved over a long time of “carried practice” in the field of library profession. Various national / international standardizing agencies in different countries have developed suitable designs to formulate systematically the “carried practices” and bring them as the “standards”. These standards provide necessary guidance to the librarians in choosing the right design and functional efficiency in choosing appropriate furniture and the equipments.

Indian Standard Specification for Library Furniture and Fittings that is available on https://law.resource.org/pub/in/bis/S03/is.1829.1.1978.pdf, may be consulted for details. Besides, the National Institute of Designs, Ahmadabad (www.nid.edu/), has also done considerable job in designing functional library furniture that can also be consulted for library designing and equipments in a special library.

 

7. Summary

 

The satisfaction of users/readers is utmost important for any library. Hence, special libraries need to install essential equipments and furniture for their comfort. However, it is seen that the use of computers and communication technology in automation and online information services has affected the trends of library furniture and equipment. Gradually, all the things are being replaced by computer assisted formats/operations. But, the traditional furniture and equipments will remain be in use for a long time till the paperless library environment is to be achieved.

 

Hence, a librarian has to pay due attention while going to purchase and installed the furniture and equipment in the library.

 

8. References / Further Readings

  • Anonymous. (1978). Indian Standard Specification for Library Furniture and Fittings. New Delhi:
  • Bureau of Indian Standards.
  • Bell, Steven J. (2008). Stop Having Fun and Start Being Quiet: Noise Management in the Academic Library. Library Issues, 28 (4), 1-4.
  • Brown, Carol R. (1995). Planning Library Interiors: the Selection of Furnishings for the 21st Century.
  • Phoenix, Ariz.: Oryx.
  • Dhiman,  A.K.  and  Rani,  Yashoda.  (2004).  Library  Management:  A  Manual  Book  for  Effective
  • Management. New Delhi: Ess Ess Publications.
  • Dhiman, A.K. and Rani, Yashoda. (2005). Learn – Library Management. New Delhi: Ess Ess Publications.
  • Dhiman, A.K. (2008). A Handbook of Special Libraries and Librarianship. New Delhi: Ess Ess Publications.
  • Hanna, Herbert L. and Knight, Nancy. (1981). Movable Compact Shelving: A Survey of U.S. Suppliers
  • and Library Users. Library Technology Reports, 17: 7- 105.
  • Khanna, J.K. (1984). Fundamentals of Library Organization. New Delhi: Ess Ess Publications.
  • Krishan Kumar (1982). Library Manual. New Delhi: Vikas Publishing House.
  • Mittal, R.L. (1996). Library Administration: Theory and Practice, New Delhi: Metropolitan.
  • Poole, Frazer G. and Trezza, Alphonse F. (Eds.) (1969). The Procurement of Library Furnishings, Specifications,  Bid Documents and Evaluation. Chicago: ALA.
  • Sahai, S.N. (2009). Academic Library System. 2nd Edition. New Delhi: Ess Ess Publications.
  • Vishwanathan, C.G. (1978). Public Library Organization. New Delhi : Today & Tomorrow.
  • Sharma, H.D. (1972). Library Building and Furniture with Special Reference to College Libraries.
  • Jullundhur: Indian Bibliographic Centre.
  • Tiwari, Purshotham (2012). Library Organization. New Delhi : APH Publishing Corporation.
  • Tauffner, G.E. (1971). Furniture and Related Facilities to accommodate Multi-Media Activities in Libraries. Library Trends, 493-507.