READIT-2007 - Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research

University Libraries – Metamorphosis to Knowledge
Resource Centers
R.Samyuktha *
Abstract
The emerging ecology of information landscape with virtual learning environment is
demanding on the academic library scenario. The University Libraries with their traditional
framework are metamorphosing into hybrid centers with print and electronic forms co-existing.
Furthermore, their roles have changed in becoming “Knowledge Resource Centers” to keep pace
with innovations in technology and realize the change in being customer driven without being customer
led. The paper discusses the changes in University Library infrastructure, resources, services and the
library professionals in the new knowledge environment.
1. INTRODUCTION
The traditional University Libraries being repositories of precious information
resources are driven forward to change their garb in terms of all their dimensions of
infrastructure to services to evolve as Knowledge Resource Centers.
Expansion of internet has created the misconception that libraries are no
longer needed as much of the content required is available on the web. Users are
indeed able to surf across digital resources of multiple or varied collections. They
greatly rely on a combination of enhanced resources, user friendly interfaces and
improved search tools (University Library Services, 2000). As a result two key
measures, namely the statistics of visits and circulation in a traditional library has
dwindled down (Bertrot et al 2004).
The shift in the ecology of information needs and information handling and
management with users in distributed environments are posing tremendous impact on
the role of services rendered by University Libraries. They have tided over in
changing roles and emerge as ‘Knowledge Centers’ with their Librarians to crusade
as Knowledge Engineers’
2. SCOPE
Paper attempts to illustrate the metamorphosis or change in University
Libraries as “Knowledge Resource Centers” in terms of Infrastructure, Resources,
Services and Personnel.
Infrastructure for Knowledge Environment
University Libraries mostly established in a traditional way cannot be done
away, with the advent of technology and modernity. Hence they try to supplement to
encompass the new spaces and equipments to combat the new roles envisaged.
Grants from funding agencies such as the UGC support modernization of the
University Library infrastructure; thus creating online information zones,
procurement of hardware such as Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices, large
* Deputy Librarian, University of Madras. E-mail: ravikvallat@hotmail.com
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