Best Practices in Academic Libraries and Information Centers
Jun 27, 2024
Best Practices in Academic Libraries and Information Centers
Introduction
Presenter: Librarian, Square Government Degree College
Topic: Best practices adopted in academic libraries and information centers
Focus: Impact of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) on academic libraries and knowledge resource centers
Key Concepts
ICT Impact: Tremendous impact on functions and user's expectations from academic libraries
NAAC Definition: Best practices can be innovative philosophies, policies, strategies, programs, processes, or practices that solve problems or create new opportunities and positively impact organizations
Categorization: Best practices are classified under four broad areas:
Traditional Practices
ICT-Based Practices
Library Extension Services
General Best Practices
Traditional Best Practices
Book Exhibition
Library Hour Orientation Program
New Arrival Displays
Library Browser
Book Review
Reader's Club
Library Short-Term Courses
Planning to Use Resources
Indexing and Abstraction Services
Staff-User Meetings
Best Library User Award
Career Guidance Cell
ICT-Based Best Practices
Computers in Library with Library Software (e.g., Ellipses)
Library Web Page Maintenance
Online Catalogue: Searchable database for library collections
Document Delivery Service
Current Awareness Service (CAS) and Selective Dissemination of Information (SDI) Service
Electronic Mail and Electronic Resources (e-books and e-journals)
Institutional Repositories: Digital storage using library software
Online Full Text Services
Online Reader Advisory Services
Library Extension Services
Access Membership Facilities
Inter-Library Loan Services
Document Delivery Service
Learn and Learn Schemes: Important for financially disadvantaged and interested persons
Photocopying and Xerox Facilities
Suggestion Box: Important for gathering user feedback
Career Notifications and Feedback Register: Collect annual feedback for service improvement
Library Helpdesk and Security Services
General Best Practices
Reader Advisory Committee
Binding of Books and Periodicals Section
Inclusion of Library Information in College Website
Intercom Facility for Easy Communication
Mobile Service for Communication
Barcoding, Spine Labeling, Stamping for Stock Management
Previous Examination Question Paper Sets
Library Activity Calendar
Pest Control for Book and Damage Management
Display of Various Library Resources
Maintaining Library Premises: Creates a positive image among students, faculty, and society
Collaboration and Knowledge Management: Fosters a collaborative environment for knowledge sharing
Conclusion
Emphasis: Adoption of best practices significantly enhances the academic information environment and usability
Objective: Improve functionality and user satisfaction in academic libraries