Locating Library Items by GIS Technology

Abstract

This article identifies a common problem in many academic libraries: users having difficulties finding library items. It suggests that a mapping system may help solve the problem if the difficulties stem from users who do not understand floor structures of the library or classification of the collections. The technology of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is proposed to build the system because of its ability to analyze spatial data of collection locations and dynamically present the analytical results in maps of varied detail. Such a GIS item-locating system could be integrated into current online catalog systems so that users would have search results in both textual display and visual demonstration. The article advocates that libraries take advantages of GIS for its inexpensive development and simple implementation.