Requirements for a user‐friendly OPAC

Online public access catalogues (OPACs) are an outcome of library computerisation and online information retrieval systems. With the computerised search system provided by the library, users can access the catalogue on their own from a terminal allocated for public use. However, a large variety of these systems are available. Requirements which enhance user‐friendliness and ease of use are discussed. These requirements have been collected from the literature as well as practical experience with an inhouse designed Opac. The requirements indicate that users and their needs regarding the catalogue should play a more prominent role in the design or choice of an Opac in a specific library.