Why Some Linux Users Refuse to Use Snap Package Manager

Snap, a universal packaging system from Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu, has been a topic of debate in the Linux community. While it offers some significant advantages, such as simplified software installation and automatic updates, it has also been met with resistance. Here are some reasons why some Linux users refuse to use Snap.

Proprietary Backend

One of the main criticisms of Snap is that its backend is proprietary and controlled by Canonical. This means that if you want to distribute snaps, you have to set up an account with Canonical and host it there. This has led to concerns about centralization and control, as it goes against the decentralized nature of open-source software development.

Performance Issues

Another common complaint about Snap packages is their performance. Snaps are often slower to install, slower to start, and use more RAM and disk space than traditional packages. This is because Snap packages contain all the dependencies needed for the software to run, which increases their size and can slow down their operation.

Auto-updates

Snap packages auto-update themselves without asking the user. While this can be seen as a benefit in terms of keeping software up-to-date, it can also be a disadvantage. For example, an automatic update could potentially break a working system or use up bandwidth without the user’s knowledge.

System Integration

Snaps do not always respect system settings and can be restricted compared to their non-snap counterparts. This can lead to inconsistencies in the user experience and limit the functionality of the software.

Community Adoption

Community adoption of Snap has been mixed. Some Linux distributions still prefer to use existing packaging formats (e.g., DEB and RPM) and package managers (e.g., APT and DNF) or their alternative, Flatpak. This can lead to fragmentation and confusion among users.

Snap has its advantages, these issues have led some Linux users to refuse to use it. It’s important to note that these are not inherent flaws in the Snap system, but rather concerns that have been raised by the community. As with any technology, it’s essential to understand its strengths and weaknesses to make an informed decision about whether to use it.

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Go Minimal, Go Xubuntu: Unveiling the Leanest Ubuntu Experience Yet! 

Yesterday marked an exciting milestone for Linux enthusiasts as Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, codenamed “Noble Numbat,” made its debut. Among the plethora of editions and flavors available, one particular release stands out for those who prefer a lean, tailored desktop experience: Xubuntu Minimal.

Gone are the days when users had to strip down their Ubuntu installations manually to achieve a lightweight environment. With the official inclusion of Xubuntu Minimal as a subproject, Ubuntu now offers a refined, slimmed-down version that caters to users seeking a desktop with no preinstalled applications.

What is Xubuntu Minimal?

Xubuntu Minimal, formerly known as Xubuntu Core, is a minimal ISO edition that offers users the essential features of the Xubuntu desktop environment without any unnecessary bloat. With a compact size of just 2.45GB, it offers a foundation upon which users can build their ideal desktop environment, tailored to their specific preferences and requirements.

Download Xubuntu Minimal

https://torrent.ubuntu.com/xubuntu/releases/noble/release/minimal/xubuntu-24.04-minimal-amd64.iso.torrent

If you are downloading Xubuntu minimal torrent file from a Linux system run following

cd Downloads
sudo apt install transmission-cli
transmission-cli xubuntu-24.04-minimal-amd64.iso.torrent

From Windows

Download and install any Torrent client software like

qBittorrent

What should I do after installing Xubuntu Minimal?

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
sudo apt install -y thunar-archive-plugin wget vim gpg curl bzip2 firefox
sudo reboot

To know new features in Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, click here.

A Journey Through Library Internship: A Tale of Enthusiastic Learners

As the 15-day library internship programme at Sacred Heart College Library draws to a close, it’s time to reflect on the enriching journey that everyone involved has shared. Two bright interns, Ms. Sathisa and Ms. Aleena, hailing from the Department of Library and Information Science at St. Peter’s College, Kolenchery, embarked on this learning adventure with eagerness and curiosity.

Guiding them through the intricacies of library operations were two librarians, Mr. Biju VV (UGC librarian), myself, and my team from the East Campus Learning Resource Centre. From the outset, it was evident that Sathisa and Aleena were determined to grasp every aspect of library management, from the fundamentals to the nuances of the profession.

The internship was meticulously structured, with the initial seven days spent at the East Campus Learning Resource Centre and the subsequent days at the Central Library. This division allowed them to immerse themselves in different library environments, broadening their understanding of the diverse roles libraries play in academic settings.

During their tenure, they gained exposure to various facets of library management. From book acquisition to meticulous register maintenance, they gained insights into the organisation that underpins effective library functioning. Hands-on experience with library software enhanced their proficiency in tasks such as circulation management and cataloguing in Koha.

Moreover, they delved into the realm of institutional repositories, familiarising themselves with DSpace software for efficient management of digital assets.

Beyond technical skills, we guided them on essential aspects of professional development. They learned the ropes of navigating job vacancies, preparing for interviews, and understanding the responsibilities that come with being a librarian. This holistic approach ensured that they not only acquired technical expertise but also developed the soft skills necessary for success in the field.

As the internship draws to a close, Sathisa and Aleena depart with a wealth of knowledge and experiences that will undoubtedly shape their future endeavours in the field of library and information science.

– Mahesh Palamuttath

Wrapping Up the Third Batch of the Diploma in Library Automation

Dears,

Rajagiri College of Social Sciences (Autonomous), Kochi, has conducted yet another enriching chapter of the Diploma in Library Automation, leaving me filled with a myriad of emotions. It has been an incredible journey of exploration, learning, and growth, one that has left an indelible mark on each one of us.

Being the instructor for this course has been an absolute privilege. Witnessing the dedication and enthusiasm of each participant has been truly inspiring. From mastering the intricacies of Linux, Koha, and DSpace to delving into the nuances of information retrieval systems, every step of this journey has been marked by curiosity and a thirst for knowledge.

As we bid farewell to the third batch of learners, I can’t help but feel a sense of pride in the progress they have made. Their dedication to honing their skills and embracing new technologies reveals a great deal about their passion for the field of library science.

One of the most rewarding aspects of being an instructor is witnessing the satisfaction and confidence that participants gain as they navigate through the course material. Seeing their faces light up with understanding and excitement as they unravel the complexities of library automation is truly gratifying.

I would also like to express my gratitude to the faculty, Dr. Joshi Sir (Department of Library and Information Sceienece), and other staff of Rajagiri College of Social Sciences for their unwavering support and guidance throughout the duration of the course. Their commitment to academic excellence has played a pivotal role in shaping the success of the course.

Mahesh Palamuttath

Enhancing Research Efficiency: A Dive into Zotero for Sacred Heart College PhD Scholars

On March 8, 2024, I had the privilege of leading a session on “Reference Management Using Zotero” for PhD scholars at Sacred Heart College (Autonomous) as part of the Research Methodology Series. The session, organized by the Sacred Heart College Research Forum at Fr. Francis Sales Library, aimed to equip scholars with essential tools to enhance their research efficiency and productivity.

Zotero, a powerful reference management software, took center stage during our discussion. With its wide range of features tailored to streamline the reference management process, Zotero offers a transformative solution for researchers grappling with citation complexities and bibliographies.

Throughout the session, we delved into the various functionalities of Zotero, from its seamless integration with web browsers to its capability to organize references into easily accessible libraries. Attendees learned how to effortlessly import references from online databases and websites, creating a centralized repository of sources for their research projects. Integration with Microsoft Word, LibreOffice Writer, and Google Docs was also explored.

A highlight of the session was the hands-on demonstration, where scholars had the opportunity to navigate Zotero’s user-friendly interface and practice importing, organizing, and citing references. The interactive nature of the session enabled participants to actively engage with the software, empowering them to incorporate Zotero into their research workflows with confidence.

Furthermore, we discussed the importance of adopting efficient reference management practices to ensure the integrity and credibility of scholarly work. By mastering Zotero, scholars can streamline the citation process, avoid inadvertent plagiarism, and maintain consistency in their bibliographies, ultimately enhancing the quality of their research output.

The session concluded with a lively exchange of ideas and insights, showcasing the enthusiasm and dedication of Sacred Heart College’s PhD scholars to excel in their academic endeavors. Armed with the knowledge and skills gained from the session, I am confident that Zotero will serve as a valuable ally for them as they navigate the intricacies of scholarly writing with ease and precision.

Snapshots

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Revolutionizing Library Services: The WhatsApp Integration Journey

Dear Professionals,

I’m absolutely thrilled to share with you the incredible journey we’ve had implementing WhatsApp Integration into our library services here at Sacred Heart College. As the driving force behind this initiative, I couldn’t be more excited to offer you a glimpse into our experiences and the profound impact it’s had on our library services.

Our decision to integrate WhatsApp into our library management system, Koha, stemmed from a deep commitment to enhancing user experiences and embracing the marvels of modern technology. Recognizing WhatsApp’s widespread use as a communication tool, we saw a golden opportunity to harness its power to streamline our operations and boost patron engagement.

Right from the start, collaboration played a pivotal role in bringing this project to fruition. Working closely alongside our dedicated librarian, Mr. Biju V.V., and the rest of the team, we tackled challenges head-on and fine-tuned the integration to perfectly align with our library’s objectives and the needs of our users.

The integration process was nothing short of exhilarating and immensely rewarding. We meticulously planned each phase, from the initial brainstorming sessions to the final implementation, ensuring a seamless integration process and maximum benefit for our patrons. Throughout this journey, our focus remained unwavering on delivering a solution that would streamline communication and empower our users with real-time notifications.

Since the launch of WhatsApp Integration, the response from our patrons has been overwhelmingly positive. The automated notifications for borrowed books, timely reminders for returns, and real-time updates on book availability and reservations have truly revolutionized the way our patrons interact with the library.

As we continue to evolve and innovate, I’m filled with excitement about the endless possibilities that technology holds for libraries. By sharing our experience with WhatsApp Integration, my hope is to inspire fellow library professionals to embark on similar initiatives and embrace technology to elevate their services to new heights.

If you’re keen on learning more about our journey or exploring potential collaborations, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Warmest regards,

Mahesh Palamuttath
Librarian, East Campus
Sacred Heart College, Kochi

The Hindu News Article:  Kochi college introduces novel initiative of integrating WhatsApp with its automated library management system – The Hindu

Interview: Mr. Biju V.V. (College librarian) with RJ Neena, Radio Mango: https://jmp.sh/jmfikiwq

Malayalam News Articles


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Malayala Manorama 23-03-2024
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Mathrubhoomi 24-03-2024 1
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Deepika 24-03-2024
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Deshabhimani 24-03-2024

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The Hindu 27-03-2024

Streamlining Library Operations: Mastering Batch Process Techniques in Koha

I recently had the privilege of leading a session on “Mastering Batch Process Techniques in Koha” at the National Workshop on Koha ILS hosted by Providence Women’s College.

During this session, participants delved into the intricacies of leveraging Koha’s batch processing capabilities to streamline various library operations. We covered a range of essential tasks, including data import, record updates, and inventory management, highlighting how batch processes can significantly enhance efficiency.

One of the key points I emphasized was the strategic importance of batch processing in optimizing library workflows. By automating repetitive tasks and streamlining processes, librarians can effectively reallocate staff resources towards more value-added activities. This not only increases productivity but also enhances the overall user experience, aligning library services with the demands of the digital age.

The success of this session underscored our commitment to empowering library professionals with the tools and knowledge necessary to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving landscape.

I would like to extend special thanks to Dr. Prasanth, the college librarian at Providence Women’s College, for graciously extending the invitation to serve as a resource person for the National Workshop. His support and collaboration were instrumental in making this session a success.

Snaps from the Workshop

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Exciting News for Koha Users! Introducing WhatsApp Integration Service

I’m happy to unveil a latest service – WhatsApp Integration with Koha! Seamlessly connect your Koha Library Management System with WhatsApp to automate alerts such as issue, return, renewal alerts, and overdue reminders.

Key Features:

– Instant WhatsApp notifications for library transactions
– Hassle-free issue confirmations and return alerts
– Automated renewal reminders
– Overdue notifications directly to users’ WhatsApp
– Dashboard for bulk patron messaging
– ChatBot (auto reply)

See It in Action:

Why Choose this Service?

– Streamline communication with library users
– Enhance user experience with automated alerts
– Subscription-based model for flexibility
– Tailor-made for the Koha Library Management System

Contact Me:

For inquiries and support, reach out to +91 9567664972 or mail@maheshpalamuttath.info

#KohaIntegration #WhatsAppAlerts #LibraryManagement

Enroll in the 3rd Batch of Diploma in Library Automation!

Are you ready to embrace the future of library services with technology? We are thrilled to announce the launch of the 3rd batch of the Diploma in Library Automation, conducted by Rajagiri College of Social Sciences (Autonomous), Kochi!

About the Course:

This diploma course is tailor-made for library professionals who aspire to harness the power of technology in their library services. Whether you’re a seasoned librarian or just starting your career, this program will equip you with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive in the digital age of libraries.

What Sets Us Apart:

  • Taught by experts in the field.
  • Comprehensive curriculum covering Linux, Koha ILS, and DSpace IR.
  • Practical hands-on experience in installation, customization, and system maintenance.
  • Classes on every first and third Sunday, starting from October 2023 to March 2024.
  • Course duration: 60 hours.
  • Convenient class timings: 10 AM to 4 PM (5 hours per day).

Course Highlights:

  1. Linux: Delve into the world of open-source software, Linux distributions, and system configuration.
  2. Koha ILS: Learn everything about Koha modules and how to maintain a library system efficiently.
  3. DSpace IR: Discover the ins and outs of DSpace, from installation to managing digital collections.

View full syllabus.

Download

Contact for Registration and Details:

Dr. Joshy George (Associate Professor, DLIS, Rajagiri College of Social Sciences & Coordinator) is here to assist you. Reach out to him at 8606365566 to secure your spot in this exciting program.

Don’t miss this opportunity to become a tech-savvy librarian and revolutionize your library services.

Mastering Koha: Insights from the Librarian Guide Academy’s Advanced Training

Over the course of two enriching days, I had the privilege of participating in the Librarian Guide Academy’s Online Training Program on Advanced Koha. This event, held on September 9th and 10th, was a remarkable learning opportunity, made even more special by the presence and wisdom of D.P. Tripathi Sir, the Deputy Librarian at Dr. B R Ambedkar National Institute of Technology, Jalandhar, and a renowned content creator on the YouTube channel Librarian Guide.

The training program covered a spectrum of topics related to the Koha Integrated Library System, and I had the honor of conducting sessions on the following themes:

  1. Circulation: Exploring the intricacies of circulation management in Koha, we delved into the software’s capabilities and how it can streamline library operations efficiently. The session highlighted the importance of smooth circulation processes in enhancing user experiences.
  2. Patron and Bulk User Management: Understanding the significance of maintaining patron records and efficiently managing bulk user data is crucial for any librarian. During this session, we explored the tools and features that Koha offers for seamless patron and bulk user management.
  3. WhatsApp Integration for Sending Alerts: In today’s digital age, effective communication is vital. Integrating WhatsApp for sending alerts directly from Koha proved to be a fascinating discussion. We learned how libraries can harness the power of instant messaging to keep users informed and engaged.
  4. OPAC Customization: A library’s online public access catalog (OPAC) serves as the face of the library to users. This session shed light on how libraries can customize their OPACs to offer an enhanced and personalized user experience.

The online format of the training program allowed participants from diverse geographical locations to come together, fostering a sense of community and collaboration among librarians. The interactive nature of the sessions encouraged discussions, questions, and the exchange of ideas, making the learning experience incredibly valuable.

In conclusion, I am grateful for the opportunity to have shared knowledge alongside D.P. Tripathi Sir and to have interacted with fellow librarians eager to enhance their skills. It is through such initiatives that the library community continues to grow, adapt, and serve its users better.

— Mahesh Palamuttath