Course Code: MLIE-103
MLIE-103: Academic Library System
Assignment Code: AST/TMA/ Jul.2025-Jan.2026
Q.1. Describe the functions of a university library and explain the ways in which they have undergone changes due to the impact of IT.
Answer: Functions of a University Library
A university library is the academic heart of a university. It supports teaching, learning, research, and extension activities of students, faculty, and researchers.
1. Collection Development
- Selection, acquisition, and organization of books, journals, theses, reports, and reference materials
- Development of collections according to curriculum and research needs
2. Organization of Information
- Classification and cataloguing of documents
- Creation of bibliographic records and indexes for easy retrieval
3. Circulation Services
- Issue, return, renewal, and reservation of books
- Maintenance of user records
Impact of Information Technology on University Library Functions
Information Technology (IT) has transformed traditional library functions, making services faster, wider, and more user-centric.
1. Automation of Library Operations
Change:
- Manual acquisition, cataloguing, and circulation replaced by Integrated Library Management Systems (ILMS)
Impact:
- Increased efficiency and accuracy
- Reduced paperwork
2. Digital Collection Development
Change:
- Shift from print-only to e-books, e-journals, databases, and institutional repositories
Impact:
- 24×7 access to information
- Space saving and remote accessibility
Q.2. Write an essay on academic library movement in India during 20th century.
Answer: Academic Library Movement in India during the 20th Century
The academic library movement in India during the 20th century represents a significant phase in the development of higher education and research support systems. Academic libraries, attached to universities and colleges, evolved from small book collections into organized information centers that supported teaching, learning, and research. This transformation was influenced by educational reforms, national movements, library legislation, and professional leadership.
Early 20th Century: Foundations
At the beginning of the 20th century, academic libraries in India were poorly organized, inadequately funded, and largely dependent on donations and limited acquisitions. Libraries mainly served as storehouses of books with little emphasis on user services. However, the growth of universities such as Calcutta, Bombay, and Madras created a demand for better academic library facilities. The Indian education system under British rule laid the foundation for organized academic libraries, though progress was slow.
Role of University Education Commissions
A major turning point came with various education commissions. The Calcutta University Commission (1917–1919) emphasized the importance of libraries as essential components of university education. Later, the University Education Commission (1948–49), chaired by Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, strongly advocated well-equipped university libraries with trained staff, adequate funding, and modern services. These recommendations highlighted libraries as the intellectual centers of universities.
Post-Independence Growth
After Independence in 1947, the expansion of higher education led to rapid growth in academic libraries. New universities and colleges were established, increasing the demand for library services. Government support improved through grants and funding agencies. The establishment of the University Grants Commission (UGC) in 1956 played a crucial role by providing financial assistance for library development, book acquisition, buildings, and staff training.
Professional Leadership and Library Movement
The academic library movement was strongly influenced by visionary library professionals, especially Dr. S. R. Ranganathan, who is regarded as the father of library science in India. His Five Laws of Library Science, classification schemes, and emphasis on service-oriented libraries transformed academic library practices. He advocated open access, user education, and scientific management of libraries, which significantly improved academic libraries across the country.
Growth of Library Education and Associations
The 20th century also witnessed the growth of library and information science education in Indian universities. Formal training programs produced qualified librarians for academic institutions. Professional bodies like the Indian Library Association (ILA) promoted standards, cooperation, and awareness of the role of academic libraries in education and research.
Development of Infrastructure and Services
Academic libraries gradually introduced cataloguing, classification, reference services, and inter-library loan facilities. Reading rooms, stack areas, and research sections were developed. During the latter half of the century, libraries began subscribing to national and international journals to support research activities.
Impact of Information Technology (Late 20th Century)
Towards the end of the 20th century, the academic library movement entered a new phase with the introduction of Information Technology. Automation of library operations, use of computers, online databases, CD-ROMs, and networking initiatives like INFLIBNET (established in 1991) revolutionized academic libraries. Libraries began shifting from print-based collections to hybrid models, expanding access to digital information.
Q.3. What do you understand by “Library Governing Body”? Discuss its role in collection development in the context of academic libraries.
Answer: A Library Governing Body is the apex decision-making and advisory authority responsible for planning, policy formulation, and overall supervision of a library. In academic libraries, it is usually known as the Library Committee, Library Advisory Committee, or Library Council and functions under the university or college administration.
Role of the Library Governing Body in Collection Development
Collection development is one of the most important responsibilities of an academic library. The Library Governing Body plays a key role in ensuring that collections meet teaching, learning, and research needs.
1. Formulation of Collection Development Policy
- Defines scope, objectives, priorities, and subject coverage
- Ensures alignment with academic programmes and research goals
2. Selection and Acquisition of Resources
- Approves selection criteria for books, journals, e-resources, and databases
- Ensures balanced development of print and digital collections
- Recommends subscription to national and international journals
3. Budget Allocation and Financial Control
- Allocates funds for different subjects and departments
- Monitors effective and judicious use of funds
4. Faculty Participation in Collection Development
- Encourages faculty members to recommend books and journals
- Ensures subject-wise representation in the collection
5. Evaluation and Weeding of Collection
- Reviews the usefulness and relevance of existing collections
- Ensures space and relevance are maintained
Q.4. Enumerate the various library consortia existing in India. Discuss any two of them in detail.
Answer: A library consortium is a cooperative arrangement among libraries to share resources, subscribe to electronic databases collectively, and reduce costs. In India, library consortia have played a major role in improving access to scholarly information, especially electronic resources.
Major Library Consortia Existing in India
The important library consortia in India include:
- e-ShodhSindhu Consortium (INFLIBNET / UGC)
- DELNET (Developing Library Network)
- INDEST-AICTE Consortium
- CSIR e-Journals Consortium
- DRDO e-Journals Consortium
1. e-ShodhSindhu Consortium (Detailed)
e-ShodhSindhu is a national-level consortium managed by INFLIBNET Centre, Gandhinagar, under the University Grants Commission (UGC). It was formed by merging three earlier consortia: UGC-INFONET, N-LIST, and INDEST-AICTE (partial).
Objectives:
- Provide access to high-quality e-journals, e-books, and databases
- Support teaching, learning, and research in higher education
Features:
- Covers universities, colleges, and technical institutions
- Access to major publishers like Elsevier, Springer, Wiley, Taylor & Francis
Significance:
- Strengthens research output
- Bridges information gap between institutions
- Enhances quality of higher education in India
2. DELNET (Developing Library Network) – Detailed
DELNET was established in 1988 at Delhi and later registered as a society in 1992. It is one of the earliest and largest library networks in India.
Objectives:
- Promote resource sharing among libraries
- Develop union catalogues of books, journals, theses, and non-book materials
Services:
- Union catalogue of books and serials
- Inter-library loan (ILL) and document delivery
Significance:
- Reduces duplication of resources
- Improves access to rare and specialized materials
Q.5. Write short notes on any two of the following:
(a) Types of teleconference
(b) General principles of book selection
(a) Types of Teleconference
Teleconferencing is a method of communication among individuals or groups at different locations using electronic media such as audio, video, or computers. It is widely used in libraries, academic institutions, and organizations for meetings, training, and discussions without the need for physical presence.
Types of Teleconference:
- Audio Conferencing
- Communication is done through telephone or VoIP systems.
- Used for meetings, discussions, and interviews.
- Video Conferencing
- Participants communicate through live video and audio.
- Enhances interaction with visual cues, presentations, and demonstrations.
- Web Conferencing / Online Conferencing
- Uses the internet to share audio, video, and data in real time.
- Includes screen sharing, chat, file sharing, and polls.
Significance:
Teleconferencing saves time, reduces travel costs, and enables effective communication and collaboration across locations.
(b) General Principles of Book Selection
Book selection is the process of choosing books and other materials for a library to meet the needs of users. It is an important aspect of collection development in academic, public, and special libraries.
General Principles of Book Selection:
- Relevance to Users
- Books should meet the academic, research, and recreational needs of the library users.
- Quality and Authority
- Prefer books by reputed authors and publishers.
- Ensure accuracy and reliability of content.
- Timeliness and Currency
- Include books that are up-to-date and relevant to current developments.
- Cost and Budget Consideration
- Select books that fit the librarybudget while providing maximum benefit.
- Durability and Format
- Books should be physically durable; consider print, digital, or multimedia formats.