FUTA MAKES PROGRESS WITH DEPLOYMENT OF APP DEVELOPED BY STUDENT FOR LIBRARY ACCESS

The library of the Federal University of Technology Akure FUTA is making progress with the deployment of a software developed by a student of the Institution for access control . 

The software , named TouchNut developed by a team led by a 400level Student of the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Daniel Adeniyi , is now being used to regulate entry and exit of students into the Albert Ilemobade Library and to monitor activities. Registration of new students on the app platform is also progressing appreciably.

A typical interface follows the following format :

100 LEVEL LIBRARY REGISTRATION. 

100 level students should follow the steps below to register for the new contactless library card. 

- Visit https://futa.touchnut.com/library

- Verify that you are a 100 level student of the university

- You will be notified of when to proceed to the library to activate and get your card

Adeniyi explained that the major advantage of the Software is that it provides an easy to use identification system that helps the security unit to monitor the activities that go on in the library. He also stated that the TouchNut provides an Intranet server that contains student’s information and comes with an intranet connection. Its server is also well secured ensuring the security students information from easy access on the internet.

He pointed out that with the TouchNut app, students can borrow books and library staff will not need to worry about its return on its expiration date because the software would track down the student’s Card and notify the staff.

He said the TouchNut identification Software would be useful to three major units in the Library. First is the security unit as it helps them check people in and out of the Library. Second is the circulation unit because it helps create user profiles for students, develop and assign cards as well. Lastly is the Management Unit because the Management has complete oversight of everything that happens in the Library.

The University Librarian , Dr Robert Awoyemi said TouchNut has added significant value to the ongoing process to digitize and make operations of the Library fully automated .

The Vice Chancellor , Professor Adenike Oladiji who approved the use of the app at the library , said steps will be taken for the deployment of the software in other relevant areas including campus shuttle transportation. Professor Oladiji said students of FUTA are being helped on the path of products development, registration of their intellectual property and its commercialization.