Assignment 3 2026
Unique number:
Due date: July 2026
QUESTION A
ICT Infrastructure in Library and Information Services
1. Introduction
Information and communication technology infrastructure refers to the people,
equipment, computer programs, electronic information and network connections that
allow a library to provide modern services. Libraries now use computers and
communication tools to collect, organise, store and share information with users in
both physical and online spaces (AIS4802 Study Guide, 2026: 13). A strong ICT
infrastructure improves service delivery because it allows users to search
catalogues, access databases, use electronic books and receive help without always
visiting the library building. The four main parts of ICT infrastructure in Library and
, QUESTION A
ICT Infrastructure in Library and Information Services
1. Introduction
Information and communication technology infrastructure refers to the people,
equipment, computer programs, electronic information and network connections that
allow a library to provide modern services. Libraries now use computers and
communication tools to collect, organise, store and share information with users in
both physical and online spaces (AIS4802 Study Guide, 2026: 13). A strong ICT
infrastructure improves service delivery because it allows users to search
catalogues, access databases, use electronic books and receive help without always
visiting the library building. The four main parts of ICT infrastructure in Library and
Information Services are computing, connectivity, content and people, which must
work together for services to remain useful and reliable (AIS4802 Study Guide, 2026:
14).
2. Main Components of ICT Infrastructure in LIS
2.1 Computing
Computing includes the hardware and software that allow a library to process
information and complete its daily work. Hardware refers to the physical parts of a
computer system, including computers, monitors, keyboards, printers, scanners,
storage devices and servers. These tools support activities such as searching the
library catalogue, scanning book barcodes, printing documents and digitising old
materials (AIS4802 Study Guide, 2026: 27). A library needs suitable computers with
enough memory and storage space because slow or outdated equipment can delay
services and frustrate both staff and users. Reliable hardware improves service
delivery by allowing staff to issue books quickly, update borrower records, search for
information and assist many users without unnecessary waiting (AIS4802 Study
Guide, 2026: 28).
Software gives instructions to the hardware and helps staff complete general and
library-specific duties. System software controls the computer, while application