The Extent of the Application of University Libraries in the Jordan to the Standard Protocol Z39.50

Abstract

Despite the great importance of a (Z39.50) Protocol in any mechanical system because of its serious benefits for libraries and information, however, there are limitations in using this Protocol in Jordanian universities libraries. Therefore the study dealt with protocol (Z39.50) practically and theoretically to benefit from it in Jordanian libraries through applying it at the Jordanian University Libraries represented by (Yarmouk University Library and the library of the University of Science and technology Irbid), and how to use and benefit from the mechanism applied in foreign libraries compared to the application in studied Jordanian libraries. The study consisted of (30) staff (60) officer in the sections of the studied university libraries (indexing and categorization, provisioning, periodicals, databases), formed (50%) of the chosen randomly sample study. Data collection adopted two methods: first: written interview questions, composed of (15) question. Second: asked questions questionnaire, consisting of (17) question, and after analyzing it, it showed that (84%) of workers were assisted by the protocol in doing their works, and it has a great role in information retrieval and search and retrieval of bibliographic records, while the system using the protocol in Jordanian universities only use (Horizon) system, also it was found that the Protocol does not provide collaborative interlibrary loan service between libraries. Search recommended that training courses must be done for library professionals to familiarize them with the Protocol and services so they can use it optimally, and the utilization of the possibilities provided by protocol must be expanded throughout the libraries.

Keywords: libraries , Application, Protocol, Government university