Free and Open Source Software Tools For Implementation of Information Visualization in Libraries and Information Centers

Abstract

Libraries generate and collect an enormous amount of data regarding usage statistics, circulation, visitor counts, budget, resource sharing data, Inter-Library Loan transactions, Document delivery statistics, etc. This collected data is interpreted for making policy decisions over library development and for the improvement of existing library services. Traditionally, libraries have been presenting the data using archaic tools such as simple graphics, tables, and charts. The recent phenomenon of Information Visualisation has provided tools and techniques for displaying information in innovative and creative ways to present abstract data. Considering the potential of Information visualisation, the tools and techniques provided by the field of Information visualisation should be exploited by the library and information centres for the presentation of library data. This paper presents an overview of various free and open source software tools available for better implementation of information visualisation in libraries for better decision making.