Automating Acquisition through SOUL 3.0

Abstract

Library automation is an integral part of the development process of any library or resource center. Traditionally this includes automation of acquisition, serialization, cataloging and circulation. But most libraries do list entries of reading material and display them via OPAC. These libraries have been equally successful in computerized issues and returns. But the real difficulty lies in the automation of acquisition activities. It is forgotten that cataloging begins with acquisition. The article describes step by step how to mechanize the acquisition process using SOUL 3.0 to strengthen library services. Mechanization involves six important steps namely vendor management, budgeting, suggestion, ordering, accession and payment. All components are depicted in detail.