The Library(ies) of the University of Coimbra automation

Abstract

This paper aims to describe the process of libraries automation at the University of Coimbra, led by its Main Library. Although this study comprises the whole period since the librarians of Coimbra understood the
advantages that the use of the computer would bring to the various operations performed in libraries (1964) until the implementation of the current Library Integrated System (2003) used by dozens of libraries at the University of Coimbra, this study is mainly focused in the 80’s and the 90’s, during which took place the study, parameterization and implementation of the first systems.
Essentially, this study consists in gathering and compiling scattered information, which was confined to the internal archive of the Main Library of the University of Coimbra. Its main purpose is to contribute to the history of Portuguese libraries automation which is still to be done.