Library Management System

Authors: Ananya Muralidhar, Angel Paul, Sreya Salil, Priyanka

Summary

This system is designed to manage library book inventories, user profiles, borrowing and return histories through a user-friendly web interface. Built using Java, it integrates with a PostgreSQL database using JDBC and the DAO pattern. The system offers both front-end user interfaces through servlets and JSPs and backend capabilities via RESTful APIs.

Objectives: To combat inefficiencies in traditional library management processes, this system aims to:

Digitally manage and catalog library assets
Offer quick and efficient access to book data.
Provide a comprehensive user portal for managing borrowing activities.
Deliver a scalable and maintainable platform for future expansion.

Methodology: The application was constructed using object-oriented programming principles, ensuring code modularity and maintainability. By employing the DAO pattern, we could separate data access logic from application logic, optimizing performance and scalability.

Technologies Used

Programming Languages: Java

Frameworks and Libraries: JDBC

Databases: PostgreSQL

Web Technologies: Servlets, JSPs, RESTful APIs

Design Patterns: Data Access Object (DAO) pattern

Build and Testing Tools: Gradle, Postman (for API testing)

Database Management: PG Admin (for PostgreSQL database management)

Features

Core Features:

Digital cataloging of library assets.
Efficient search functionalities.
User management with detailed borrowing and return logs.

Supporting Features:

Interactive web interface for patrons and librarians.
RESTful APIs for further system integration or third-party use.

Challenges

Real-time data accuracy in scenarios of multiple simultaneous operations.

Solution: Utilized transactional operations in PostgreSQL and synchronization in Java to maintain data integrity.

Future Scope

Enhancement of RESTful API suite for broader system integration possibilities.

Implementation of a data analytics dashboard for insights into user borrowing trends.

Integration potential with digital platforms for a hybrid library offering.