Local online information systems in Jordanian university libraries

PurposeThe study is concerned with gathering factual data on the use of local online information systems, automation, online connections, online public access catalogs (OPACs), CD‐ROM‐based systems in 19 Jordanian university libraries.Design/methodology/approachInformation was sought through a written questionnaire; personal interviews; literature review, and field visits. The implementation of local online information systems; OPACs, CD‐ROM databases, online searching, networks/databases subscribed to, methods of online services to users, problems and solutions are investigated.FindingsOf the 18 (94.7 percent) libraries responded, half (50 percent) are using MINISIS or CDS/ISIS, one‐third (33.3 percent) is using either M2L, or ORACLE based systems, and 3 (16.7 percent) are using locally designed packages. Technical processing, information retrieval, circulation, reference services, and serial control are the prime systems functions. All respondents are linked to the internet. A total of 15 (83.3 percent) respondents have developed collections of databases on CD‐ROMs; 11 (73.3 percent) use single‐ access, and four (26.7 percent) use multi‐user systems.Practical implicationsOnline services are provided mostly by traditional means. Lack of skilled staff, shortages of fund, and insufficient hardware are prime obstacles hindering systems optimal utilization. Outdated databases, cost, and users incompetence are problems limiting the optimal use of online systems. Developing intranet, funding, trained manpower, training courses to users, sharing subscription expenses in electronic full‐text database, and promote cooperation to exchange OPACs records through the internet, are suggested solutions to overcome these problems.Originality/valueAcademic libraries in Jordan are changing emphasis from ownership of information sources in printed forms, to the access to online databases or local area networks systems based on CD‐ROMs, to linkage with the internet as a prime gateway to information sources.