Design and Implementation of an Online Library Management System for Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Library management in Nigerian universities is frequently hindered by outdated catalogue systems, missing records, and inefficient book borrowing processes. This study designs and implements an online library management system for Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, one of Nigeria's largest federal universities. The system was developed using the PHP Laravel framework and a PostgreSQL database, with a web-based interface accessible to both students and library staff. The research methodology follows the waterfall software development lifecycle, providing a structured approach appropriate for a clearly scoped institutional project. Key features include a searchable book catalogue, borrowing and return tracking, automated overdue notifications via SMS, and a reserve queue system. Functionality was tested through unit testing and user acceptance testing involving 85 library users and 12 staff members across three faculties. Results show that catalogue search time decreased by 74 percent and book loss incidents reduced significantly after system deployment. The study highlights the critical role of digitising library assets to support academic research culture in Nigerian universities. Limitations include initial resistance from older staff members unfamiliar with digital tools, addressed through structured onboarding sessions. The study recommends that Ahmadu Bello University adopt the system institution-wide and integrate it with the national university library network for broader resource sharing. Keywords: library management, online system, Laravel, usability testing, Ahmadu Bello University