NewGenlib and KOHA - the Goa University experience
Dear professional colleagues I have seen some discussion going on about the use of Open Source Software in libraries, mainly talking about the use of NewGenlib and KOHA. Good discussion was going on. Surprisingly the name of Goa University Library was also found dragged in the discussion. I do not have any negative opinion about NewGenlib. But when I took charge of the library of Goa University, I was having serious problems with the server in which NewGenlib was installed. Every now and then we had to restart the sever which is located in the university's computer centre. So I requested the agency which installed it for providing assisting in the customization and installation of NewGenlib in a new Server. The agency quoted 8.5 lakhs for the installation and customization of NewGenlib. This was a huge ransom when we consider the quantum of work involved. This approach of the agency has prompted the Goa University Library to go for another solution. The agency was not available for further negotiations too. We have gone to an agency which has quoted the lowest rates for data migration and customization. Now the database is working very well and users are very happy. Both software are equally good. As a professional, I feel that we need not take up the advocacy for some agencies engaged in their business. Do good for the profession. Unceremonious and unwanted bonding with business people will not bring good for the profession. I do not want to say anything more on this. Dr GOPAKUMAR V. University Librarian,Goa University Taleigao Plateau, Goa. PIN 403 206 Personal webpage http://www.vgkumar.weebly.com/ gopakumar.v@rediffmail.com Office Phone: 08326519012 Mobile No: 09447056713 -- This message has been scanned for viruses and dangerous content by MailScanner, and is believed to be clean.
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Gopakumar Velayudhanpillai