Technology and Automation Flashcards

What does the acronym 'OPAC' stand for in library technology?

Answer: Online Public Access Catalog

OPAC stands for Online Public Access Catalog, the searchable database patrons use to find library materials.

Which standard protocol is most commonly used for sharing bibliographic records between library systems?

Answer: Z39.50

Z39.50 is the ANSI/NISO standard protocol used for querying and retrieving bibliographic information between library systems.

What is the purpose of batch processing in an integrated library system (ILS)?

Answer: To process multiple library tasks simultaneously or in bulk

Batch processing allows the ILS to run multiple operations—such as overdue notices or inventory updates—in bulk rather than one at a time.

A library technician is setting up self-checkout kiosks. Which technology is the kiosk MOST likely using to read item barcodes?

Answer: Laser barcode scanner

Self-checkout kiosks typically use laser barcode scanners to quickly and accurately read barcodes on library items.

What is 'deduplication' in the context of library digital collections?

Answer: Removing duplicate records or files to maintain a clean database

Deduplication is the process of identifying and removing duplicate records or files to keep the catalog or digital repository accurate and efficient.

Which of the following best describes an 'API' in the context of library software integrations?

Answer: A set of protocols allowing different software systems to communicate

An API (Application Programming Interface) provides a set of rules and protocols that allow different software applications to exchange data and functionality.

When a library migrates its ILS to a new platform, what is the FIRST critical step staff should take to protect data?

Answer: Perform a full data backup of the existing system

A full data backup ensures all existing bibliographic, patron, and transaction records are preserved before any migration begins.