The effect of automated systems on Jordanian university libraries’ organizational structure Available to Purchase

Reviews the higher education movement and the development of universities in Jordan. Reports a study aimed at exploring the effect of automation on academic libraries, organizational structure and technical and administrative services. The study sample constituted 20 libraries. All of 17 (85 per cent) respondent libraries are computerized. Six (35.3 per cent) use MINISIS, nine (52.9 per cent) use CDS/ISIS and two (11.8 per cent) use customized packages. Systems are mostly utilized in technical processing, reference services, bibliographies and acquisitions. The effect which automation has produced on technical and administrative services is evidenced by the establishment of a department for computer applications in nine (52.8 per cent) libraries, the motives of staff and users to use the systems and their satisfaction and acceptance of this technology.The study stressed the need to develop software packages conducive to the Arab libraries, particular needs, plans for academic training, and the necessity for a network linkage, both locally and internationally.