Designing the system platform, we researched and adopted a great number of latest technologies in the area of computer system development, such as ATM technology, Client/Sever architecture, cluster processing, multi-protection, HACMP structure with hot-fix, processing with no single damage point, plug-and-play fault-tolerant disk array, ADSM data multi-layer backup, mass CD storage and integrated cabling.  The operating system and data management system with C2 security level were also used.  In sum, the system is running in the secure and reliable environment, and is with international leading level.

     The system consists of seven subsystems:

• respectively subsystem for developing library integrative management environment (involving the modules of circulating, acquisitions, cataloging, serials and querying).
• re-document and full-text retrieving subsystem.
• ancient Chinese books verbatim-CD making and querying subsystem.
• office automation subsystem.
• electro-reading room subsystem.
• multimedia guiding subsystem.
• wide-area-network service subsystem.

       The successful development of the Shanghai Library (New Building) Computer Management System indicats that our computer management for libraries in China will step up to a new level. The system becomes a model for the library computer management systems with Chinese characteristics, and is worthy of popularizing and promoting. It's very obvious with the its social benefits that the library is as the non-profitted public utility.