CARS-LMS:
In this section let us try to learn about a different software package, which is commonly used in some of the libraries abroad. The package is known as CAIRS/LMS or CAIRS Library Management System.
CAIRS has been developed by. Leatherhead Food Research Association (LFRA), U.K. It differs from other packages in two important aspects. Firstly, CAMS has been developed by information scientists who continue to depend upon it to run an information service and a series of databases at the Leatherhead Food Research Association. Ls other words, CAMS staff bring an Understanding of library operations which is not the case with other packages. Secondly,
CAIRS staff are committed to developing the software for their wider business, and are very responsive to the suggestions made by their customers to improve the product.
CAIRS may be considered as an ideal package for any information centre or a library looking for a totally integrated solution to its library housekeeping and information retrieval requirements. It provides the advantages of the more conventional relational database for immediate transaction processing.
CAMS includes one of the most powerful indexing and retrieval environments available in any software package. The package also offers solutions to cataloguing requirements where bibliographic abstract and added keyword indexing are used. Readymade modules are available for acquisitions, cataloguing, borrowers, suppliers, issues/returns and renewals. It has facilities for serials holdings and interlibrary loans.
CAIRS also provides facilities for user defined catalogue structure. Standard features in all the modules include command and menu driven modes.. The package has novice and expert searching capabilities, full data entry and editing facilities, free text and keyword indexing, interactive error reporting, free format control, current awareness services, SDI bulletin generation, accounting aids and statistical management aspects. In conclusion, it may be said that
CAIRS appears to offer a great deal of flexibility. The package is under constant revision and development and a good relationship between the supplier and the User Group exists. All these aspects attract library professionals towards use of CAMS.