University Libraries in North India: Current Status and Information Technology Use Trends

Abstract

The paper describes a study of 12 university libraries of Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab and UT Chandigarh with special reference to ICT applications. The response to the questionnaire and information available on university websites, show that 8 of the 12 libraries have distinct names. Chaudhry Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University has 99 branch libraries of different levels; Panjab University, Chandigarh more than 60; and University of Kashmir (UK) has 60 branch libraries. All the libraries have web presence, either through university website (8 no.) or direct (4). All the libraries have their own buildings of 3 to 8 floors with a seating capacity ranging from 200 to 1300. Universities have either campus wide Wi-Fi connectivity (6 libraries) or have partially completed the project (5 libraries). There are 100 computers each for users with internet connectivity in Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra and UK. Library membership varies between 887 in Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Science & Technology (AS&T) and 15,738 in Punjabi University, Patiala (PbiU). Total 92 persons are working in PbiU library and still has 63 % vacant positions at Assistant Librarian and above while smallest staff strength is in AS&T (10 persons). Largest collection of 6.5 lac books is in UK library which also has small number of audio and braille books. All the libraries are providing readers’ guidance within library; OPAC search; reading room for personal books; online search by library staff and users themselves; photocopy service; book reservation and renewal services. The paper concludes that university libraries have acquired ICT infrastructure and digital resources, and are offering ICT-based services despite a general administrative apathy towards alarming condition of vacant positions.