Implementation of a Library Management System for Public Libraries in Plateau State

Public libraries in Plateau State continue to rely on manual cataloguing and circulation processes that slow service delivery and make resource tracking difficult. This study documents the design and implementation of a computerised library management system for the Plateau State Library Board, targeting two public libraries in Jos North and Barkin Ladi LGAs. The system was developed using Java (Spring Boot) for the backend and Angular for the frontend, with an SQLite database for offline-capable operation. Key features include book cataloguing using MARC21-compatible records, member registration, book lending and return tracking, overdue notification alerts via SMS gateway integration, and a patron-facing online catalogue search. Development followed the Unified Process methodology with use case modelling. Functional testing confirmed correct operation of 98 of 100 tested scenarios. Performance testing demonstrated a sustained throughput of 40 concurrent users without degradation. The system was piloted at the Jos North Library for 90 days, during which 1,240 transactions were processed with zero data loss events. A post-pilot survey of 30 library staff showed that 87 percent reported the system reduced book retrieval time by more than half. The study concludes that modest investment in library management software can transform service delivery in Nigerian public libraries and calls on the Plateau State government to extend the system to all state-managed libraries.

Keywords: library management system, Plateau State, cataloguing, public libraries, North Central Nigeria