Library-Management-System

This project is a web-based Library Management System built using Python's Flask framework, Jinja templating, and MySQL. It enables librarians to manage books and oversee member registration.

Overview

The Library Management System provides functionalities for:

• Book Management: Add, update, and delete book records.
• Member Management: Register new members and maintain member information.

Requirements

Ensure the following are installed on your system:

• Python 3.x
• MySQL
• Flask

How to Run the Project

1. Clone the Repository:

   git clone https://github.com/Shivaay210/Library-Management-System.git
   cd Library-Management-System

2. Set Up a Virtual Environment:

   python -m venv venv
   source venv/bin/activate   # On Windows: venv\Scripts\activate

3. Install Dependencies:

   pip install -r requirements.txt

4. Configure the Database:

   • Ensure MySQL is running.
   • Create a database named library_db.
   • Update the database connection details in setupDB.py and app.py as needed.

5. Initialize the Database:

   cd utils
   python setupDB.py
   cd ..

6. Run the Application:

   python app.py

7. Access the Application:

   Open a web browser and navigate to http://127.0.0.1:5000/.

Design Choices

Architecture

The application follows an MVC (Model-View-Controller) architecture:

• Model: Represents the database layer implemented using MySQL. It defines tables for books and members.
• View: Uses Jinja2 templates to render dynamic HTML pages, ensuring a responsive and user-friendly interface.
• Controller: Flask routes handle HTTP requests and map them to appropriate service functions to process the data.

Module Design

• Book Management Module:

  • Handles CRUD operations for books.
  • Allows updating quantities and book details dynamically.

• Member Management Module:

  • Manages member registrations and updates user profiles.

Screenshot

Approach

• User-Centric Design: Focused on providing an intuitive interface for librarians to manage library resources.
• CRUD Operations: Implemented Create, Read, Update, Delete functionalities for books and members.

Assumptions and Limitations

• Single Librarian Role: Assumes only one type of user (librarian) with full access; no separate roles or permissions.
• Local Deployment: Designed for local deployment; additional configuration is required for production environments.
• Basic Validation: Includes minimal input validation; further enhancements are needed for robust error handling.

Future Work

• User Authentication: Implement user roles and authentication mechanisms.
• Enhanced Validation: Add comprehensive input validation and error handling.
• Search Functionality: Develop advanced search features for books and members.
• Deployment: Prepare the application for deployment on cloud platforms.
• Transaction Tracking: Develop features to monitor book loans and returns.