An integrated Web-based ILL system for Singapore libraries

The paper proposes an integrated Web‐based inter‐library loan (ILL) system to replace and enhance the existing manual‐based ILL system used by Singapore libraries. It describes the system requirements that must be supported in order to make it a viable and acceptable solution to all participating libraries. Subsequently, it presents the client‐server Web‐based system architecture, database design and Java development platform that are used to implement the system. The new system exhibits a host of advantages over the manual system including the minimising of human resource by eliminating form‐filling and other forms of paperwork completely, improving the access and speed of the ILL process by allowing participating libraries to update each other’s databases directly, ensuring data integrity, simplifying status tracking and supporting instantaneous status and statistical reporting.