Smart Library Management System with Automated Borrowing Workflow, Penalty Computation and AI based Recommendation using Django Framework

P. Soma Sekhar , B. Shireeshai, Dr. S. Usharani

Library Management System; Django; Automation; Borrowing Workflow; Penalty Calculation; AI Recommendation; Web Application.

The increasing demand for efficient information management in educational institutions has highlighted the limitations of traditional library systems, which rely heavily on manual processes for cataloguing, borrowing, and record maintenance. This paper presents a Smart Library Management System, a web-based solution designed to automate and optimize library operations while enhancing accessibility and user experience. The system is developed using the Django framework with Python as the backend language and SQLite for data persistence. The frontend interface is built using HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, and Bootstrap, ensuring a responsive and user-friendly design. The system supports dual-role functionality, enabling library members to browse books, request borrowing, access digital resources, and receive notifications, while librarians manage inventory, approve requests, track loans, and handle overdue penalties. A key feature of the system is the automated borrowing workflow, which includes real-time book availability tracking, request approval mechanisms, and penalty computation for overdue returns. Additionally, an optional AI-powered recommendation module utilizing the Google Gemini API enhances user engagement by suggesting relevant books based on borrowing history. Experimental evaluation demonstrates improved operational efficiency, reduced administrative workload, and enhanced user satisfaction compared to traditional systems. The proposed system offers a scalable, cost-effective, and deployable solution for modern educational libraries.

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