Five Laws of Library Science

The 5 Laws of Library Science is a theory proposed by S. R.

Ranganathan in 1931, detailing the principles of operating a library system.
Five laws of library science are called the set of norms, percepts, and
guides to good practice in librarianship. Many librarians worldwide accept
them as the foundations of their philosophy. Dr. S.R. Ranganathan
conceived the Five Laws of Library Science in 1924. The statements
embodying these laws were formulated in 1928. These laws were first
published in Ranganathan's classic book entitled Five Laws of Library
Science in 1931.

These laws are:

1. Books Are For Use

2. Every Reader His/Her Book
3. Every Book Its Reader
4. Save The Time Of The Reader
5. The Library Is A Growing Organism

These laws of Library Science are the "fundamental laws" of Library

Science. These are applicable to any problem in the areas of library
science, library service, and library practice. These laws are like pot
containing oceans. Prior to their enunciation, the subject of Library Science
had no philosophy. These laws gave a philosophical base, guaranteeing an
everlasting future to the subject of library science, the profession of
librarianship, and the use of libraries. These laws have provided a scientif ic
approach to the subject of library science. Even though S.R. Ranganathan
proposed the Five Laws of Library Science before the advent of the digital
age, they are still valid and equally relevant today.¹

Note
• A corollary of the Fourth Law of Library Science is "Save the time of the
staff"
• In the present day context, the term "book" should be used in a broader
context to mean a "Resource".

Content

First Law: Books Are For Use

o Implications
▪ Open Access
▪ Location
▪ Library Hours
▪ Library Building and Furniture
▪ Book Selection Policy
▪ Library Techniques
▪ Publicity
▪ Library Staff
▪ Reference Service
• Second Law: Every Reader His/Her Book
o Implications / Obligations
▪ Obligations of the State
▪ Obligations of the Library Authority
▪ Obligations of Library Staff
▪ Obligations of the Reader
• Third Law: Every Book Its Reader
o Implications
▪ Open Access
▪ Book Selection
▪ Shelf Arrangement
▪ Easy Accessibility
▪ Cataloging
▪ Reference Service
▪ Publicity
▪ Extension Service
• Fourth Law: Save The Time Of The Reader
o Implications
▪ Open Access
▪ Location
▪ Shelf Arrangement, Classification, and Cataloging
▪ Stack-Room Guides
▪ Issue and Return
▪ Reference Service
▪ Documentation Service
▪ Library Staff
• Fifth Law: The Library Is A Growing Organism
o Implications
▪ Balanced Growth
▪ Casting Off the Old (Obsolete) and Preserving Valuable Books
▪ Choice of a Classification Scheme
▪ Choice of a Catalog Code
▪ Modernization
▪ Staff
▪ Library Building - Provision for Future

FIRST LAW: BOOKS ARE FOR USE

A book is a guide, a friend, and a philosopher.The first law "Books are for
use" places emphasis on the use of books rather than storage. Books were
once kept in closed access in order to prevent theft, but this discouraged
free use and prevented loaning. The first law of library science "books are
for use" means that books in libraries are not meant to be shut away from
its users.

The first law constitutes the basis for library services. Dr. Ranganathan
observed that books were often chained to prevent their removal and that
the emphasis was on storage and preservation rather than use. He did not
reject the notion that preservation and storage were important, but he
 asserted that the purpose of such activities was to promote use. Without
user access to materials, there is little value in these items. By emphasizing
use, Dr. Ranganathan refocused the attention of the field to access-related
issues, such as the library's location, loan policies, hours and days of
operation, as well as the quality of staffing and mundane matters like library
furniture, temperature control, and lighting.

First Law - Books are for Use is the ones of the Five Laws of Library
Science that Ranganathan remarked as ‘trivial truism’ in his writing “Library
Science and Scientific Method.”⁷ Trivial Truism refers to a statement of little
value or importance that is obviously true and says nothing new or
interesting. So here Dr. S. R. Rangangathan means to say that the First
Law - Books are for Use is obviously true and understood. Ranganathan
says in this work:

Before dealing with these factors, a word should be said about the remark
that the First Law - Books are for Use - is a trivial truism. The first law of
most of the science is equally so. For example, Newton’s first law of motion
reads, “Every body preserves in its state of rest unless it is compelled to
change that state by impressed forces.” Is this not a truism?

Implications
• Open Access - Open access of books enhance their use. In this system,
every reader is allowed to go to the shelves and choose the book of his
interest. In case he does not find the desired book of his interest, he can
choose some other from the shelves.
• Location - A library should be situated near the central place. If it as an
institutional library, then it should be situated near the center of the
institutional complex. If it is a public library then it should be in the center of
the city.
• Library Hours - The first law demands that a library should be kept open
for long hours, and during the hours which suits to its patrons most.
• Library Building and Furniture - There should be a functional library
building with pleasant, natural, and electrical light, soothing interior, good
looking furniture, comfortable chairs, etc.
• Book Selection Policy - Books should be purchased which are relevant to
the needs of the readers. Books should be attractive such as it fills the
reader with pleasure.
• Library Techniques - Proper cataloging and classification of books are
essential for promoting the use of books.
• Publicity - The First Law demands wide publicity of each and every book of
the library. For example, the librarian can bring out the list of new additions
and latest arrivals through the Current Awareness Service (CAS) or
Selective Dissemination of Information Services (SDI).
• Library Staff - A library cannot come up to the expectation of the first law
unless its staff is attentive and cheerful, and cares for the books and
readers. Readers should be looked upon as customers. Some readers are
shy and are not informed about the complex library techniques. The library
staff should help such users to find their desired book. It will not only satisfy
readers but also enhance library's use.
• Reference Service - Reference service aims to establish the right contact
between the right reader and right book at the right time. A collec tion of
library resources would not be used fully unless the reference librarian
makes effort to help the users to exploit the resources of the library. This
personal service will lead to the greater use of books.

SECOND LAW: EVERY READER HIS /

HER BOOK
The second law of library science is "Every Reader His / Her Book". This
law implies that the "books are for use of all" or "books for all." The Second
Law stressed on the democratization of the library where every reader has
the equal right to get the book of his / her interest. The second law fixed
some responsibilities or obligations of the state, the library authority, the
library staff, and the readers. A library should serve all patrons, no matter
their age, race, or economic status.
 The second law of library science "every reader his/her book" means that
librarians serve a wide collection of patrons, acquire literature to fit a vast
collection of needs, do not judge what specific patrons choose to read.
Everyone has different tastes and differences and we should respect that.

The possible absence of a physical knowledge storage object doesn’t dilute

the power of Ranganathan’s second principle; it is certainly relevant to
media in all forms including the Internet.

Implications / Obligations
• Obligations of the State - When we say "Every Reader His / Her Book" or
"Books for All", the state or government automatically comes in picture. The
state has a certain obligation to its citizens and one of these is to provide
equal opportunity to read. Ranganathan has discussed obligations of the
state under three head. (i) Finance--providing finance by giving grants and
by levying library cess (Ranganathan's choice), (ii) Legislation--enacting
library legislation, and (iii) Coordination--of activities to ensure "Books for
All"
• Obligations of the Library Authority - The second law has something to
say to library authorities in respect to the selection of books and staff. A
library has limited finance. It is therefore desirable to know the
requirements of the readers before selecting the books. Similarly, library
authority should select staff for their library with professional competence
and missionary zeal.
• Obligations of Library Staff - Library staff should be cooperative and
service minded. Library staff should form a bridge between readers and
books, only then every reader will have his/her book. When a reader enters
a library, the library staff should approach him with a helping hand. Second
Law strongly advocates user education program in libraries.
• Obligations of the Reader - The Second Law expects the readers also to
discharge some responsibilities. Readers should be disciplined and follow
rules and regulations. Readers should restrain from cutting pages from
books, keeping books beyond the due date, etc. All such acts amount to
keeping other readers away from their books.

THIRD LAW: EVERY BOOK ITS READER

 The Third Law prescribes Every Book its Reader. The emphasis is on the
book. This law desires that every book in a library must find its reader. It
implies that there should be maximum use of books by their users.

This principle is closely related to the second law, but it focuses on the item
itself, suggesting that each item in a library has an individual or individuals
who would find that item useful. Dr. Ranganathan argued that the library
the third law of library science "every book its reader" means a library's
books have a place in the library even if a smaller demographic might
choose to read it.
It is, therefore, necessary to adopt measures to ensure successful
implementation of the demand of the Third Law. The factors that may be
kept in view in this regard have been discussed below:

Implications
• Open Access - It is one of the most effective ways to ensure that the
maximum number of books are seen by the readers. It also happens
sometimes that the reader to the shelves in search of a book and in the
process of search select many more books.
• Book Selection - Give full weightage to the tastes and requirements of the
clientele of the library. Difficulties of the Third Law can be minimized by
adopting a well-balanced book selection policy. If the right books are
selected it will definitely find its readers
• Shelf Arrangement - If the books are arranged so that the subjects get
arranged according to the degree of mutual relationship, then each book
would have a higher probability of getting its readers.
• Easy Accessibility - Books should be placed within easy reach of the
readers. It has been observed that the books within the comfortable reach
of the readers are most frequently used. For easy accessibility, shelves
should not be higher than 6.5 ft.
• Cataloging - Proper cataloging of books is very important as even though
there may be well planned and arranged books on the shelves but they are
incapable merely by itself. Series entry and cross-reference entries are
highly useful in drawing the attention of the readers. Analytical entries
increase the chance of a composite book getting its reader.
• Reference Service - A reference librarian should know about the world of
books and try to find out a reader for every one of these. The reference
librarian should act as a canvassing agent for each book.
• Publicity - Publicity is a very powerful weapon to attract readers to the
library and thereby to increase the chances of every book to find its reader.
For example, the arrival of new books may be brought to the notice of the
readers by displaying them, near the entrance of the library, or by
communicating the readers through an e-newsletter or broadcasting
information about them through the Twitter handle of the library.
• Extension Service - The library attract readers by converting itself into a
cultural and social center. A library does this by organizing exhibitions,
musical concerts, a magic show, celebration of local and national festivals,
etc. Once the people come to these functions, then the library can make an
attempt to bring books and readers together.

FOURTH LAW: SAVE THE TIME OF THE

READER
The Fourth Law says "Save the Time of the Reader." A library user must be
assumed a busy person. It is essential to keep the reader satisfied and a
reader is satisfied most if his/her time is saved, i.e., if he gets the needed
service in minimum possible time.

The fourth law of library science "save the time of the user" means that all
patrons should be able to easily locate the material they desire quickly and
efficiently.

Implications
• Open Access - In a closed access of books time is wasted unnecessarily.
In open access, the time of the readers is saved. If open access is not there
then the reader has to make the choice of the books through the searching
of the library catalog. Then the reader requests the library staff the book
which he has searched in the catalog. The staff searches the required book
and if the staff is not able to trace the book, then the reader again needs to
 search the catalog. These problems can be avoided if open access is
provided where the readers can themselves go to the shelves to search
their book.
• Location - The location of the library is of great importance. It must be
centrally located so that it is conveniently accessible to the community
served. For an institutional library, it should be in the center of the
institution, for a public library it should be in the center of the city. Centrally
located library saves the times of the users in visiting it.
• Shelf Arrangement, Classification, and Cataloging - Proper
classification schemes should be used in the library. Books should be
arranged on shelves according to the classification number. Regular shelf
rectification is also essential. In order to save the time of the readers, the
library catalog should aim to provide different approaches to the users. It
should include analytical entries for composite books.
• Stack-Room Guides - To save the time of the reader, the library should
provide an efficient system of stack room guides. It may be quite useful to
keep it at the entrance of the stack room, the whole plan of the room
indicating the position of the book racks and classes of books in them.
• Issue and Return - Most readers want to read the book at home. For this,
the library has to issue the books to the readers. Time-saving techniques
for circulation to books should be used so that the user has not to spend
more time in getting the book issued (or returned).
• Reference Service - The reference staff establishes a contact between the
book and the reader by providing Reference Service and Long Range
Reference Services, thereby saving the time of the reader.
• Documentation Service - A substantial time of readers is wasted in the
literature search. The library should, therefore, undertake comprehensive or
selective, as needed be, documentation services including SDI service to
save the time of the reader.
• Library Staff - Library staff should be cooperative. They should help the
readers to find their document keeping in mind the message of the Fourth
Law, i.e., to Save the Time of the Reader.

FIFTH LAW: THE LIBRARY IS A

GROWING ORGANISM
 The Fifth Law is "The Library is a Growing Organism." A library is a social
institution and it will keep growing like an organism. A library will grow in
terms of documents, readers, and staff. The nature of organic growth can
be either growth as a body of a child or growth as of the body of an adult.
The growth of a new library will correspond to that of a child growing in all
aspects. In case of a service library, once its growth has reached the adult
stage, the growth would be in terms of replacing old books by new books
and new users will continuously replace old users.

The fifth law of library science "the library is a growing organism" means
that a library should be a continually changing institution, never static in its
outlook. Books, methods, and the physical library should be updated over
time.

Implications
• Balanced Growth - The collection should grow in all the areas of subjects
keeping in view the needs and requirements of all the readers, as far as
possible.
• Casting Off the Old (Obsolete) and Preserving Valuable Books - Weed
out old, obsolete, and unused books in order to provide space for new
additions. However, librarians should take necessary steps to preserve
valuable materials.
• Choice of a Classification Scheme - We should use a scheme of
classification, which is able to meet the onslaught of knowledge reasonably
well.
• Choice of a Catalog Code - We should use a catalog code which is able to
provide treatment to all kinds of library materials yet acquired as well as
new materials likely to be acquired in future.
• Modernization - Libraries may have to think of computerization of the
various housekeeping jobs like the acquisition, circulation, cataloging, etc.
• Staff - When a library grows, the sanctioned staff at some stage become
inadequate. So at that time an increase of staff should be considered. Any
standard for staffing should be accepted by the libraries, then the library
would be able to get the requisite staff.
• Library Building -- Provision for Future - While planning and designing a
library building, there should be a provision for the expansion of the
building, both horizontally as well as vertically. The library should provide
adequate space for the present as well as the future.
• Safeguards - As the number of readers increase, the problem of theft of
books from the library becomes acute, especially in the open access
system. So, it necessitates some safeguards, such as entrance and exit
should be from one gate, windows should be grilled, and

Indian Association of Special Libraries and

Information Centers (IASLIC)
IASLIC: Objectives, Activities, &
Organization.

The full form of IASLIC is the Indian Association of Special Libraries

and Information Centers. The IASLIC Association was established on 3
September 1955 in Calcutta with the good faith of Dr. S. L. Hora. He is the
first president, Dr. Hora, who was elected. It is a registered Legislative
Council with its head office located in Calcutta.

When an organization is formed by individuals or groups for the fulfillment

of a common purpose, it is called an association. These organizations can
be at both the government or non-government business levels.

The library the sector is also no exception. Library Association is an

association in which individuals or organizations associated with this
business area are members. Examples of some major library
associations are ALA, LA, ILA, IASLIC, etc.
 Objectives of IASLIC | IASLIC Objective
1. To encourage the systematic acquisition and transmission of knowledge.

2. To make efforts to improve library and information services.

3. Documentation techniques in the form and form of a specialized

research center library.

4. To act as an information center for scientific, technical, and other fields.

5. Contribute to library training 6. Publishing of library literature

7. Working for library collaboration and coordination.

8. To work for improving the technical efficiency of the employees working

in specialized libraries and information centers.

Major Activities/ function of IASLIC

The following major works are being done by it:

1. Publication IASLIC - Bulletin (quarterly), IASLIC Newsletter

(monthly), and Indian Library Science abstract (annual) are being
published regularly.

2. Meetings: It is organizing annual conferences, seminars, etc. every year.

3. Education and training - Organizes short-term workshops for training in

Librarianship in Calcutta and other parts of the country for training in
Librarianship.

4. The text is reproducing, translating, photocopying, and editing

reprographics works.

5. For the benefit of people related to business, he has been establishing

contact with the government and other officials from time to time.

6. IASLIC is collaborating with NISSAT (National Information System

for Science and Technology), it is affiliated to international professional
associations such as IFLA (International Federation of Libraries Association
and FID (International Federation of Documentation)).

IASLIC Organization - General, respected, lifelong, and organizations are

members of IASLIC. The General Council elects a Chairman for two years, six
Vice-Presidents, one General Secretary, one Treasurer, two Joint Secretaries,
two Assistant Secretaries, one Librarian, and twenty Council members.

In this way, we see that IASLIC has been functioning as a learned council
for years. Efforts have been made to increase its pride by including
scientists, academics, administrators, etc. among the members.

Bihar State Public Libraries and Information Centers Act,

2008
The salient features of this Act are given below:
1) Provision for a State Library and Information Centre Authority to be
constituted by the State Government comprising a maximum of 12 members
including a chairman and a vice chairman. The Authority will advise the
Government on all matters pertaining to libraries and library services. The
members are drawn from different segments of the society.
2) Provision for creating an independent Directorate of Library and Information
Centre headed by a Director and Assistant Director. There is a post of 30
Superintendent of Library in the cadre of Bihar Education Service that will
be converted to the post of Director, Directorate of Libraries. The post of
Assistant Director shall be created by conversion of any floating post of
Department/ Bihar Education Service Cadre.
3) The State will have different categories of libraries starting from State Library
to Divisional, District, Sub divisional, Special, Block, Panchayat, Village
and Private Library.
4) There will be a State Library Fund constituted by the State Government. It
will include fund given by the State Government, grants received from the
Central Government and other agencies like RRLF, amount received from
the District Development Fund, M.P./M.L.A./ M.L.C.fund, any other funds
received by the State Library and Information Centre Authority, interest and
profits received from investment of State Library Authority and other grants
received from private institutions or bodies.
5) Director, Public Libraries or his representative may inspect any library to
check whether the provisions of the Act are being followed and adhered to.
6) Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867 will be applicable in the State
wherein every publisher will deposit a copy of her/his publications in Smt.
Radhika Sinha Institute and Sachidanand Library, Patna. A register
mentioning such books received will be maintained.Authors/ publishers who
do not deposit a copy of the book will be penalized under Section 15 of this
Act.

International Federation of Library Associations and

Institutions (IFLA) The International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions
(IFLA) founded in 1929 with the aim of promoting international contacts among library associations and
librarians, is a non-governmental professional organisation. In the first two decades, It had remained
almost as a forum confirmed to leading librarians from Europe and America: In the post-war period;
with a consultative status accorded by UNESCO, it began to develop, but slowly. The International
Conference on Cataloguing Principles held in Paris in 1961 gave some impetus to the growth of IFLA.
After the Secretariat shifted to the Hague in 1971, IFLA (under the presidentship of Herman Liebaers),
stepped up its activities and was able to enlist universal international membership. At the present time,
with some major projects and many smaller programmes, IFLA is quite active and is making worldwide
impact towards promoting the cause of librarianship. 33 Role of Professional Association The broad
objective of IFI.A is to promote international understanding, Cooperation; discussion, research and
development in all fields of library activity including bibliography; information service and education of
personnel and to provide a professional body through librarianship can be represented in matters of
international interest. IFLA has two categories of members-Associations and Institutions. In 1986, IFLA
had 171 member associations and 823 member institutions from 123 countries. There is provision for
admission of personal affiliates and consultative status to international organisations involved in
activities similar to the activities of FID. The members elect the council, which is the supreme governing
body. The main steering bodies are the Executive and Professional Boards, the first full powers for
administration and management and the second is concerned with coordination and planning of
professional activities. For carrying out professional tasks, Round Tables and Working Groups have also
been formed. - IFLA has an International Office for Universal Bibliographic Control and an Office for
International Lending at the British Library Reference and Lending Divisions respectively. There are two
regional Bureaus at Kuala Lumpu, Malaysia and Dakar; Senegal. The activities of IFLA are guided by
Medium Term Programmes (MTP) prepared by the Programme Development Group, such as for the
periods 1976-i980, 1981-1985 and 1986-1990. The major programmes in which IFLA concentrates its
efforts are Universal Bibliographic Control (Launched in 1974); Universal Availability of Publications
(UAP); International Standard Bibliographic Description (ISBD), and International MARC. These
Programmes have received substantial support from UNESCO. These have indeed been making a global
impact. Another major sphere of activity of IFLA is development of "library work in the third world
countries. It is able to enlist the participation of librarians from Asia, Africa; America and Caribbean
countries in this task by organising conferences and seminars, awarding fellowships, etc. The other
activities with regard, to developing countries are studies on special problems in ` cataloguing, preparing
course syllabus for library schools; preparation of braille books, and advice on rural library service. IFLA
is also interested in areas such as standards for library work, legislation for public libraries and library
statistics: Of late the Annual General Conference of IFLA is turning to be a minor attraction to foster
personal contacts among the international community of librarians. Some 2,000 delegates attend the
Annual General Conference. In conjunction with the Annual Conference, a number of pre and post-
conference seminars and round table meetings devoted to specific areas are held. The periodical
publications of IFLA are: IFLA journal (quarterly); International cataloguing (quarterly), IFLA Annual and
IFLA Directory (annual). In the Monograph Series, IELA has a number of useful publications, brought out
by K.G. Saur (Munich/London). Another series, relates to UBC Publications. India has begun to take an
active part in IFLA lately. The India Library Association and a few other professional associations and
institutions have become members. India is also represented in the Executive Board of IFLA. ILA
organised IFLA Regional Seminar on UAP in New Delhi in 1985. It is a matter of great significance that
IFLA: General Conference was held at New Delhi in 1992 hosted by the India Library Association.

International Federation for Information and

Documentation (FID) The Internati6nal Federation for Information and
Documentation (the word Information was added to the name in 1986, but the acronym FID is
continued) was founded by Paul 34 Library Associations, Promotional Agencies and Systems Otlet and
Henri La Fontaine in Belgium in 1895 as the International Institute of Bibliography (IIB). At that time, the
main objective was the creation and maintenance of a Classification (UDC) from the Dewey Decimal
Classification for Providing order and access to the bibliographical entries in the world repertory. While
the Universal Bibliographic Repertory project had failed the IIB left legacies of great value in providing a
nucleus for the evolution of FID and in the development of UDC. Which is still the world's major
classification scheme for information and knowledge. In the early period. The activities were few and
the participation was confined to European countries. In 1938, when the headquarters was completely
shifted to the, Hague, the International Institute assumed the name International Federation for
Documentation to signify an expanding role to cover documentation in all its practical aspects. After
World War II, there has been a gradual increase in membership and steady expansion of activities
reflecting its international character. FID is essentially a scientific and professional organisation. It is a
non-governmental body. A small permanent secretarial functions at the headquarters which is now
located at the Hague: The membership comprises national members, one each of over sixty countries
two international member and a large number of affiliate members. Its revenue comes from
membership subscription. Sale of publications and small grant from UNESCO. The Federation is
governed by a General Assembly of national and international members which meets once in two years.
Implementation of policies is delegated to a Council elected by and from the national delegates of the
General Assembly. The President, permanent Secretary General and senior officers form an Executive
Committee, which is charged with the management of the Federation. The functioning of FID is
supported by a series of Technical Committees and Task Forces devoted to areas such as Research on
the Theoretical Basis of Information, Informatics; Terminology, Linguistics in Documentation,
Classification Research; Central Classification Committee which coordinated revision of Universal
Decimal Classification. Broad System of Ordering, Information Systems and Network Design, Education
and Broad System of Ordering, Information Systems and Network Design, Education and Training, Study
of User Needs, Social Science Documentation and Information. These Committees have been set up to
review fields, plan and execute actions towards furthering the technical programmes of FID. In order to
take care of regional interests; FID has set up regional Commission for Asia and Oceania (FID/CAO) and
Regional Commission for Latin America (FID/CLA). With the central aim of promoting, through
international cooperation, research in and development of information and documentation, FID has
been guided in the past by three major plans, namely, Outline of a Long-Term Policy (1960), FID
Programme (1970) and a New Programme Structure (1978). FID Crossing its 94th Anniversary, is now
embarking upon a new Plan to guide its activities. The general Fields of concern of FID are sources of
information, storing, retrieving, repackaging and conveying information, properties of information,
Supply of information to match user needs and personnel development. The special field are education
and training, aids to translation and classification and indexing. The framework of the New Plan provides
for drawing general and specific objectives, evolving strategies; establishing major programmes and
carrying out a number of activities. Revision, development and maintenance of UDC have been looked
after by Fid as a direct responsibility. Under the overall coordination of Central Classification Committee
(FID/CCC), thirty or more UDC revision committees assist the developmental work of UDC. In all other
areas, the activities are carried out thought the technical committees and task forces. The outcome of
those activities may lead to generation of reports, publications etc. in some cases. Occasionally,
seminars, workshops and meetings are held by the technical committees to focus attention on technical
issues and to come up with useful recommendations. Once every two years, FID holds a congress at
different venues. Usually a general theme is selected for the Congress. A pre-conference volume
carrying the papers is brought out. The Conference is well attended. In conjunction with the biennial
conference, the technical committees may also organise seminars sometimes: The Regional
Commissions, FID/CAO and FID/CLA also hold biennial Congress and General Assembly. 35 Role of
Professional Association In addition to an active monograph publications programme, FID publishes take
monthly FID News Bulletin, the quarterly International Forum on Information Documentation (English
and Russian), R&D Projects in Documentation and Librarianship (bi-monthly), Extensions and Corrections
to the UDC (annual) and FID Directory (bi-annual). FID Cooperates with the programmes of other
organisations such as UNESCO, IELA, International Council of Archives and International Organisation for
Standardization (ISO) Technical Committee 46 (ISO/TC 46). India's association with FID dates back to
1948. At the instance of Dr. Donker Duyvis, a past Secretary-General of FID, the late Dr. S.R.
Ranganathan carried on the work of FID/CA Committee for General Theory of Classification and DID/CR -
Committee for Classification Research. As Rapporteur-General and Honorary Chairman respectively for
more than two decades Dr. Ranganathan made lasting contributions. Since its establishment in 1952,
INSDOC has been the national member of FID. Indian representatives have held offices of
vicepresidentship and council membership for many terms. FID honoured Ranganathan by electing him
in 1957 as a Member of Honour. The Chairmanship and the Secretariat of FID/IM committee for
Informatics ate with India (INSDOC) now. India is also represented in many Technical Committees such
as Fid/Cr, FID/ET, FID/II, FIDISD, and FLDIPD. India hosted the Third International Conference on
Classification Research in 1975 and the Second Regional Conference on Classification Research in 1985.
In order to ensure~ active participation of India in FID's programmes, a National Committee of FID has
been constituted by INSDOC. The 49th FID Conference and Congress was also hosted by INSDOC in
October, 1998.
 RRRLF Objective, Wikipedia, Publication
& Activity | RRRLF in Library Science
Raja Ram Mohan Roy Library Organization (RRRLF) or Raja Rammohan
Roy Library Foundation established in 1972 on the 200th birthday in
memory of Raja Ram Mohan Roy by the Government of India under the
Department of Culture of the Ministry of Human Resource Development.

Rajaram Mohan Roy was born on 22 May 1772, who spent all his life in
adult education and social welfare.

RRRLF Trust's central office is located at Saltlake Calcutta. Since this

institute is associated with human resource development, its chairman is
the Minister of Human Resource Development or its representative, a work
review is created by the chairman.

In which the well-known Library President, Library Scientist, National Book

Trust, and Library Faculty representative is a member, besides a full-time
director, four distinguished library presidents and representatives of the
Ministry of Human Resource Development, its members also have a total of
22 members in the office of the establishment.

A director, a field officer, an executive officer, an accounting officer, and

other employees are employed.

This trust has been registered under the West Bengal Society
Registration Act. It is fully funded by the Government of India.
Objectives of RRRLE - The objectives of this organization are as follows: -

i. To promote the book movement by planning the progress of public

libraries of India in collaboration with the state governments.

ii. To inculcate the propensity to study in rural masses and adults.

iii. Formulate a National Library Policy and make efforts to adopt that
policy by Central and State Governments.

iv. Encourage the state government to pass and adopt the Library Act in
various states.

v. Grants to the public library through a state library planning committee

constituted by the state governments.

vi. Establish a national library network or system by linking the National

Library, State Central Library, District Library (Inter-Library lone).

vii. Providing technical support to public libraries.

viii. To advise the government in the library program.

ix. Establishment of Regional Library Service Center for the country.

x. Accelerating research in the library and information science.

Activities and events of RRRLF

RRRLF is constantly trying to achieve its objectives which are reflected
in its programs and activities. The following are their activities: -

(1) The assistance of libraries - It has run many schemes to help public
libraries which we can divide into two parts-
(A) Matching Assistance

(B) Full Assistance

(A) Matching Assistance: - All assistance or up to 50 percent assistance is

provided to public libraries in the following manner.

(i) It provides Matching Grant for opening a new library and running a rural
book center and providing mobile library services.

(ii) Support of book and audiovisual material.

(iii) Assistance for book collection and book display.

(iv) Grants to Balbhavans and Nehru Youth Centers to run the library.

(v) Assistance for workshops, seminars, and book exhibitions.

(vi) Assistance for building expansion from district level to lower-level

public libraries.

(vii) Grant in the purchase of radio television and video etc. in district and
state central libraries.

(B) Full Assistance - RRRLF in Library Science

(i) The assistance of book to state central library and district level libraries
and the aid of book to district level libraries through central purchasing.

(ii) Assistance to Centrally funded libraries

(iii) Assistance with voluntary institutions to run public libraries.

(iv) Assistance for running child libraries or for opening children's

departments in public libraries.

(2) Grant to Book Associations: RRRLF provides financial assistance from

time to time for organizing seminars and conferences for book associations.
(3) Library Act - RRRLF continues to endeavor that various states
implement the Library Act in their area. In these efforts, the chairman of
RRRLF maintains contact with the education minister and concerned
departments of the states through constant correspondence.

(4) National Library Policy - The RRRLF formed a working team in 1981 to
draft the National Library Policy under the chairmanship of Dr. BP Varua. As
a result, in 1983, a draft National Policy on Library and information system
was prepared, on the basis of which the Department of Culture,
Government of India issued a draft policy statement and a review were
chaired by Dr. DDP Chadhopadhyay.

Which submitted its recommendations in 1986, on which a committee was

constituted to consider by the Ministry of Human Resource Development
and its recommendations are under consideration with the government.

History of University Grants Commission (UGC)

The commission was initially formed in 1945 to undertake the management of the three central
Indian universities of Delhi, Banaras, and Aligarh. Later in 1947, the responsibilities were
extended to cover all Indian Universities.

In 1948, under the Chairmanship of Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, the University Education Commission
was established to evaluate Indian university education and recommended changes to transform
education as per the country’s requirements. The proposal was made to reconstitute the general
model of UGC as that of the UK.

In 1952, the union government decided that UGC will manage the allocation of grants-in-aid
from public funds to the Central and other Universities and Institutions of higher learning. The
commission was eventually launched on 28 December 1953 by the late Shri Maulana Abul
Kalam Azad, the then Minister of Education. However, the center has the requisite powers with
reference to higher and professional education in 1950, but more power is given to in 1976 after
the 42nd amendment was adopted. Officially established in Nov’1956 through the Act of
 Parliament, UGC works as a statutory body of the Indian government responsible for
coordination, determination and maintenance of higher education standards.

As of now, The NAAC or National Assessment and Accreditation Council have the
responsibility to evaluate and accredit higher education institutions (HEIs) in India, and this
autonomous body is funded by UGC.

Roles of the UGC

The commission has the power to allocate funds to Universities and Institutions of Higher
Learning as well as ensuring that these institutions abide by the standards imposed by the
commission. Institutions that fail to fall under the category are deemed fake universities or
colleges, and the University Grants Commission generates a list of the same regularly. Besides,
some other roles of UGC are:

• Promote and coordinate UGC approved universities

• Formulate regulations to set up minimum higher education standards
• Evaluate the advancement n the field of University and College Education
• Organize examination standards for UGC Net, CSIR NET, and ICAR NET etc.
• Maintain Coordination between State Governments, Union governments, and Institutions of
Higher Learning
• Make suggestions to the Central and State Governments to bring about positive changes in Higher
Education

Besides, to stimulate progression in the education and research sector, the commission imparts
fellowship programs, awards, research grants and scholarships. These scholarships provide
financial assistance to meritorious students who can contribute to the development of the
country.

ROLE OF UGC IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF LIBRARY

The INFLIBNET Library plays a vital role in the collection development and dissemination of scientific and
technical information to meet the present and future needs of the Centre.

The INFLIBNET Centre has a small, specialized library consisting of 2000 documents on computer,
communication, information and library science. The library is fully computerized using SOUL integrated library
management software. The collection of the library is available online through the web OPAC facility of the SOUL.

The INFLIBNET Library plays a vital role in the collection development and dissemination of scientific and
technical information to meet the present and future needs of the Centre. The Library maintains databases of

• participants who attended various training programmes at INFLIBNET Centre;

• SOUL installations; and

• universities and its contact details including e-mail and website addresses available
at http://www.inflibnet.ac.in/universitydirectory/ . These databases are accessible through the library website

LIBRARY SERVICES

• Reference Service

• Document Delivery Service

• Current Awareness Service

• Inter Library Loan Service

• Electronic Information Service

• Photocopy Service

IR @ INFLIBNET (http://ir.inflibnet.ac.in)
The IR @ INFLBNET has been set-up to host full-text of research publications of technical staff as well as other
publications of the Centre using Dspace, an open source digital library software developed by the Massachusetts
Institute of Technology. The Dspace supports the Open Archives Initiative?s Protocol for Metadata Harvesting
(OAI-PMH), an internationally recognized protocols and interoperability standards. The IR @ INFLBNET provides
a platform for researcher in LIS to deposit, reuse and share their research publications. The repository also has the
ability to capture, index, store, disseminate and preserve digital materials created in the Centre. Staff members can
register themselves with the digital repository and submit their pre-prints (pre-refereed version of an article), post-
prints (post-refereed final version) and publisher PDFs (if allowed by the publisher). The papers publish in
CALIBER and PLANNER proceedings have been uploaded in to the IR @ INFLIBNET in PDF format. The
Institutional Repository also includes Course Materials, Newspaper Clippings, etc.

Institutional Member
The Centre has institutional membership of following national and international organizations:

• Association for Information Management (ASLIB)

• International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA)

• American Library Association (ALA)

• National Information Standards Organization (NISO)

• Indian Library Association (ILA)

• Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)

• Society for Information Science (SIS)

• Indian Association of Special Libraries and Information Centres (IASLIC)

• Computer Society of India (CSI)

• ADINET (Ahmedbad Library Nework)

• American Resource Centre,

• British Library, Ahmedabad

E-JOURNALS ARCHIVAL LIBRARY (PRINT VERSION)

Besides receiving access to e-resources on complementary basis under the UGC-INFONET Digital Library
Consortium, the Centre maintains a separate Archival Library consisting of print journals received as a part of the
agreement with the participating publishers of the UGC-INFONET Digital Library Consortium. Under the
agreement, the publishers are requested to submit a copy of all the issues of the journals. This archival library is
open to all users interested in using these print resources for their study / research.

The Centre has received issues of 286 journal titles from different publishers. During this year under review, issues
of 100 journals each were received from the Taylor and Francis, Blackwell and Oxford University

INDIAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION (ILA):

1. INTRODUCTION (LIBRARY ASSOCIATION): We have historical records of early library
associations in India such as Baroda Library Association (1910), Andhra Desa Library
Association (1914), Bengal Library Association (1927) and Madras Library Association (1927).
The Indian Library Association was founded in 1933. The Post-independence period has
witnessed an increase in the number of library associations. We have, at present, many national
and state level library associations. There are also associations devoted to special categories of
libraries, subjects, fields and other special interests. For example, the Govt. of India Libraries
Association, (GILA), Indian Association of Teachers of Library` and Information Science
(IATLIS), Micrographic Congress of India (MIC); Society for Information Science. Only a few
associations are active in contributing to professional development. Professionals are generally
indifferent to become members of library associations. The fact that many states have not
enacted library legislation points out that our library associations have not been effective. One
association at the all India level are described in the following sections. The Indian Library
Association

2. INDIAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION (Historical Prospectives): The Indian Library

Association was formed on 13th September 1933 on the occasion of 1st All India Library
Conference held at Calcutta (now Kolkata). The Indian Library Association is the largest
professional body in the field of library and information science in the country. It is the premier
national association representing the library profession in the country. The birth of the
Association can be traced to the holding of an All India Library Conference at Calcutta in
September 1933. All leading librarians of that period were instrumental in organising the
conference, whose main aim was to form the Indian Library Association. Between 1933 and
1947, seven Al1- India Library Conferences were held in different parts of the country.
Publications of ILA included two editions of the Directory of Indian Libraries and a quarterly
journal entitled Library Bulletin, as an official organ. After Independence, the Association
witnessed both hectic and lean periods of activity. Until 1983, when ILA completed fifty years,
22 more All-India Library Conferences were held. The growth over the period was steady but not
spectacular. Some initiatives taken by the ILA can be said to have had an impact over library
development in the country. For instance in 1992, the ILA successfully organized an Indian
Federation of Library Associations (IFLA) conference at Delhi. However, the expectations of the
library profession have all along been far more than what was achieved. At the present time, the
library profession is keen to make ILA strong and effective and there are signs of some progress.

3. OBJECTIVES: The Association aims at establishing high standards of librarianship and

library services in the country. It has the following objectives: • Promotion of library movement
in the country and enactment of library legislation; • Improvement of library services; •
Development of library science education and training and accreditation of library schools
Towards maintaining proper standards of education; • Betterment of salaries, service conditions
and status of library personnel; • Promotion of cooperation among libraries and professionals; •
Promotion of research and bibliographical studies; • Affiliation with state and other library
associations • Cooperation with international and other national associations with similar
objectives; • Publication of serials and other publications for dissemination of information; •
Providing a common forum by organising conferences, seminars and meetings; • Promotion and
formulation of standards, norms, guidelines, etc., for management Of library and information
systems and their services; • Establishments of libraries, documentation and information centres
and assistance in their development; and • Carrying out all such other activities that are
incidental or conducive to the attainment of the above objectives.

4. ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE OF ILA: The membership of the

Association comprises patrons, life and ordinary members, and institutional and associate
members. The general body elects, for a three year term, a President, six Vice Presidents, a
General Secretary and Council Members, up to 20, at the rate of one representative for every 100
personal members, and one representative for every 40 institutional members. There are
Sectional Committees to look after professional work in different areas, such as: University
Libraries, College Libraries, Government Department Libraries, School Libraries, Academic
Status and Parity, Public Libraries, Library and Information Schools, Educational Projects and
Consultancy, etc. These Sectional Committees consist of working librarians and experts in the
subject including teachers in library and information science. The Chairmen of the Sectional
Committees, one representative of each member state library association and ex- Presidents of
the Association are also members of Council. An Executive Committee Consisting of the
President, one Vice-President, the General Secretary, the Treasurer, two Secretaries, P.R.O. and
three Council Members look after routine management. While the general body meets once a
year, usually at the time of All India Library Conference, the council meets at least once in a
quarter and the Executive Committee meets as often as necessary. The annual report and
accounts of the Association are passed at the General Body Meeting.

5. ACTIVITIES IN INDIA: An All India Library Conference is held every year at some
place in the country. The host institution is a university, an institution or a local library
association. National seminar, on one or more themes of importance and relevance is a part of
the programme of the All India Library Conference. In addition national seminars on themes of
topical interest are also held from time to time. The Association arranges lectures, round table
discussions and other activities in Delhi and other cities. It associates itself with libraries, other
library association, institutions, etc. in the programmes generally organised during the National
Library Week in November each year.

6.INTERNATIONAL ACTIVITIES OF ILA: ILA is a member of IFLA and the

Commonwealth Library Association. It hosted the 1992 IFLA General Conference in Delhi. The
International Conference on Ranganathan's Philosophy organized by ILA in November 1985 was
an event of great significance. The ILA also organized the IFLA Universal Availability of -
Publications (UAP) Regional Seminar in October 1985 and FID/CR Regional Seminar in
November 1985 in New Delhi. ILA celebrated its 75th year in 2008 and organised an
International Conference. Under the auspicious of ILA ‘Unesco Public Library Manifesto’ has
been translated into about 15 Indian Languages. 7.PUBLICATION: The Association brings out a
quarterly journal entitled ILA Bulletin as an official organ and a vehicle for publishing learned
articles contributed by professionals in the library and information science field. There is a
scheme of awarding prizes such as PV Verghese Prize, for best article contributed to the ILA
Bulletin. The Association published ILA Newsletter every month to disseminate information of
current interest to members. Since 1978, the Association has been publishing regularly the
proceedings of the All India Library, Conference which includes the Seminar Papers discussed at
the meeting. In the case of ad hoc seminars also, a pre-seminar volume carrying the papers is
brought out. In 1985, it brought out the fourth edition of the Indian Library Directory. An ILA
Members Directory was published in 1987. The Association brings out regularly its Annual
Report and Statement of Accounts. It is expanding its publication programme at the present time.
In 1995, a database NALANDA of over 10,000 libraries (5336 Academic, 1470 Public and 3280
Special) was created. 8.CONTINUING EDUCATION: The Association has recently started a
Continuing Education programme for the benefit of working professionals. It organized during
the last decade a series of workshops in different cities on Computer Application to Library and
Information Activities. More such programmes are planned for the future. 9. AWARD FOR
EXCELLENCE: ILA has instituted many awards for encouraging excellence in the professional
practices such as: ILA-Kaula Best Librarian Award ILA- Vendanaikee Fellowship ILA-C D
Sharma Award ILA- AG Verghese Award ILA-Dr. K Padma Umapathy and Dr. S K
Umapathy Fellowship in Library and Information Sc. ILA-Dr. L M Padhya Best University
Library Award ILA-S M Ganguly Award 10. PROFESSIONAL ISSUES: The Association
takes up with the state governments, at every conceivable opportunity, the issue of enacting
library legislation in order to develop the public library system. It has been repeatedly sending a
memorandum persuading the state governments to initiate action on library legislation .It has
been active in pursuing with the government, with the University Grant Commission (UGC) and
with other bodies management matters relating to the betterment of salary grades, service
conditions and status of library professionals. It took initiatives in drafting a national policy for
library service and held a seminar on the topic, as a result of which, the Government of India
appointed a Committee to prepare a National Policy on Library and Information System. During
the All India Library Conference, a number of resolutions are usually passed on matters of
professional interest and concern, which the Association takes up with appropriate authorities for
implementation. 11. FUTURE PROSPECTIVES: The ILA is now firmly organised, with the
confidence of the library profession assured, to carry on and expand its programmes and
activities with a view to meet the hopes and aspirations of the profession and to serve the cause
of librarianship and library service in the country. We are marching towards knowledge society.
In the knowledge society, creation, building and developing knowledge infrastructure, is one of
the main functions of the government and others. A new visionary approach for National and
Regional Library Associations in India would be drawn from some of the recommendations of
the National Knowledge Commission.The Indian Library Association needs to participate
actively in implementing the recommendations of the National Knowledge Commission, relating
to libraries, such as: Setting up the National Commission on Libraries. Census of all
libraries. LIS education and public private participation in LIS development. Translation of
pedagogic materials. 12.SUMMERY: Library Associations are learned bodies which foster a
spirit of public service among their members, promote library services, protect the interests of
their members and build up the image of the library profession. Two major associations of India
,viz. the Indian Library Association and the Association of Special Libraries and Information
Centers have been described, with reference to their objectives, organisations activities,
publications, education and training programme, consultancy service and other information
services, professional issues, relation with other professional bodies, international relation and
future perspectives.

Resource Sharing and Information Networking both are dependable on each

other to fulfill the demand of the institutional users.

Resource sharing means the existing resources in a comparing system can be accessed or men remotely
accessed across multiple administrative domains. Resource sharing is not a new concept in the fields of
libraries. The concept was identified by the term of library co-operation.

The term “Resource Sharing” is necessary because any library or information centers can share their resources
including the resources of information, staff, expertise, infrastructure, and finance.

Information networking is a set of two or more computers connected together to share information and
resources link printed or hard disk etc. It is set on interrelated information systems associated with
communication facilities.

The term “Information Networking” is also necessary which, transmit information or data form, one library, or
other information centers to another. Networking has become a very powerful link in the co-ordination &
dissemination of resources.

So, Resource Sharing and Information Networking are used as the alternative efforts of information exchange
among libraries.
 Figure: Resource Sharing and Information Networking

Basic Agreement of Resource Sharing and Information Networking:

In order to achieve the goals in Resource Sharing & Information Networking, some basic agreements among
the participating libraries have to be made. In this regard P.N. Kaula (1986) points out the following:

• An agreement has to be reached to share currently owned materials.

• There should be agreement on acquisition policies.

• There should be agreement on bibliographic controls.

• There should be an agreement on building a specialized collection.

• There should be agreement regarding the loan’s periods on renewals of materials.

• There should be agreement on the financial implication involving the loan of materials from one library to
another.

• An agreement has to be reached on the retrieval of materials to a common storage facility.

• An agreement has to be made regarding the basic records that have to be maintained in the resource sharing
system.

• There should be agreement regarding the compilation of the union catalogue.

Factors Influencing Resource Sharing and Information Networking:

1. Environmental Factors: It includes the following factors;
• Demographic changes (demography is the science of study of the population)
• Transport Patterns: modern transport is needed for commuting swiftly.
• Rapid Expansion of Higher Education: Expansion of higher education has created pressure on the library for
extended resources and services.
• Financial and Political pressure by the Government: Pressure for cutting budget and expenditures, political
pressure for the corporation.
2. Organizational Factors: It includes;
• Structure of the library and information services.
• Size and Resources (kinds of stuff, funding, and physical facilities)
• Functions and Objectives of the Library (needs to be some among the member libraries)
• Organizational Process (service process, membership process)
• Library Structure (Building Structure)
3.Technical Factors: It includes;
• Computer and relative devices

• Network and communication technology

• Reprographic technology

• ICT competency

4. Human Factors: It includes;

• Co-operative personality (library personnel/staff should be co-operating)
• Positive attitude (interacts with own and other library users, physical rewards)
Objectives of Resource Sharing and Information Networking:
Following are a few objectives of Resource Sharing and Information Networking;

• The core goal of RS is the maximize the availability of materials and services to minimize expenses.
• Increased Availability and Accessibility of resources: Clientele of the participating libraries will have
access to resources available in all the libraries. Resources can be moved from one library to another manually
or through modern means to easy access and free flow information.
• To Diminish Cost: Resource Sharing helps in building the specialized collection and all participating libraries
need not duplicate the procurement of similar materials. This facility’s availability of larger collection and
even the basic materials required by the user can be obtained without causing much delay.
• Promote Exploitation of Resources: Resource sharing advocates making reading materials of one library
available to the clients of other libraries. Thus, resource sharing exposes the reading materials to a wider group
of users. Similarly, the services of a library can be exploited by the users of other libraries.
• Assist member libraries in the section of materials.

• Purchase catalogue and process library materials.

On the basis of experience and involvement in resource sharing activities in the area of management it can be
visualized that the management institution can have the following objectives for their resource sharing
initiatives;

➢ To provide better service

➢ Collection and facilities
➢ To avoid duplication
➢ To share experiences
➢ To face financial crunch
➢ To promote interaction
➢ To provide wider access to users
➢ To provide high-quality information support services

Functions of Resource Sharing and Information Networking:

Mentionable some functions are being: > Co-operative acquisition (collection of library materials)

• Assignment of specialization in materials acquisition. >Co-ordinated subscription > Exchanges of

duplicate holdings > Co-operative cataloging (CIP)

• Co-operative storage ? Reciprocal borrowing privilege > Reference service > Referral service
>Interlibrary loan
 Activities of Resource Sharing and Information Networking:
Some activities of Resource Sharing (RS) & Information Networking (IN) are given below; ,Union
catalogue of books and periodicals ,Reparation and service of indexing and abstracting, List of
new arrivals on acquisition or accession, Bibliographical development ,Networking news letter,
Directories and inventories ,Manual for training ,Translation services ,Survey of user’s interest
,Joint research project ,In-service personnel training ,Workshop, meeting, and seminar ,Making
networking service

Indian Library Association

Development, Aims & Objectives
The year 1933 happens to be the most significant year in the history of Library and Information Science in
India. It was September 13, 1933 when Indian Library Association was formally formed at the First All
India Library Conference at Calcutta.

Indian Library Association since its inception has provided a wide variety of services and programs to its
members and also others, who seek technical support or advice. The three components, namely The
Council, The Executive Committee and the Sectional Committees are responsible for Policy making and
the execution of the Programmers of ILA.

OBJECTIVES:

The Broad objectives of the Association at the time of its inception were defined as:

• Furtherance of the library movement in India

• Promotion of the training of librarians; and
• Improvement of the status of librarians.

In 1935, two more objectives were added as follows:

• Promotion of research in library science; and

• Co-operation with international organizations with similar objectives.

The 1970 amendment to ILA constitution added following four more objectives:

• Publication of Bulletins, Periodicals, Books etc., which tend to the realization of the objects of the
association;
• To assist the establishment of libraries, Documentation & Information Centers and facilitate their working
• To promote promulgation of appropriate library legislation in India; and
• To do all such things to help achieve above mentioned objectives.

The amendment dated January 4, 1987 in the constitution has added three more objectives
namely:

• Providing a common forum to all persons engaged or interested in library and information work by holding
conferences and meetings for discussion of professional, technical and organizational issues
• Accreditation of institutions imparting library and information science education and training; and
• Promotion as well as formulation of standards, norms, guidelines, etc. for management of Library and
Information Systems and Services.

ILA Office:

The office of ILA was housed in the Imperial Library at Calcutta for the initial 12 years since 1933. It was
shifted to Delhi in 1946 and remained in the University of Delhi till September 1953. Thereafter, it shifted
back to Calcutta. In August 1964, the office moved to Delhi again and was housed in the Building of Delhi
Public Library. An extra-ordinary General Body Meeting held on May 24, 1970 made a change in the
constitution to make Delhi/New Delhi as the permanent headquarter of the Association. Now the office of
the Association is housed in its own one room flat located in a commercial building in North Delhi which
was purchased way back in 1978. The office was finally moved to the present building in April, 1982.

What is a public library and their

characteristics and functions

Dr. Ranganathan defines Public Library states that "Public Libraries are those which are
established by society, for the society itself and provide every citizen of the society a
favorable opportunity to get education itself.

The Public Library is the Library "established by the public, supported and managed by the
public and used means get education by the public".

Public libraries are libraries serving the public. They freely engage in service of all sections of
society at all times without discrimination.

Public Library is known by its definition that its operation is run by public funds and it is run by
the provincial and national governments. The notion of the public library is a product of
democratic governance.
Characteristics of Public Libraries

1. They are run by public funds.

2. They are open to all the people of the society freely without any discrimination of caste,
class, and gender.

3. They provide free service to their users (readers).

4. They act as supporting centers of educational institutions.

5. They themselves are important centers of education.

Functions of Public Libraries

In public libraries the following tasks are done for users:

1. Access to tools of information and education - Access to tools of information and education
- The primary function of public libraries is the means of information and education literature
(tools such as books, magazines, etc.) for meeting the information needs of local people.
Compile and administer so that users can access these tools easily. 2. Promotion of Formal Self
Education - Public libraries are an institution on which older people depend more on their
education. Public libraries provide study material to increase the intelligence, knowledge, and
value of such persons.

3. Progress in Cultural and Social Activities - Any society is made up of individuals consisting of
people related to many languages, religions, occupations and work, and many types of social
and cultural groups are seen.

public libraries play their important role in cultural and social activities. 4. Preservation of
the Material - An essential function of public libraries is to identify and analyze the cultural
material located in their area.

Library and Modern Society: The role of Library in Society:

Library and society are inter-linked and inter-dependent with each others. Society
without libraries has no significance, and libraries without society have no origin. To
serve as a vehicle of social progress, the library plays a vital role :
• To assemble, organize, preserve, socialize, and serve all expressed thought embodied as
manuscripts, books, periodicals, their constituents documents, however minute, and every
other similar document produced as a means for communication; and by this means;
• To help in the transmission of knowledge of the earlier generations tothe later ones; and by
this mean;
• To help in cumulation and further building up of knowledge from generation to generation;
and in a similar way;
• To help in the contemporary development of knowledge, by the unintended and
purposeless repetition of effort and the consequent wastage in the research potential of
humanity; and further
• To conserve the research time of humanity by the separation of literature search from
positive search; and also
• To help in the perpetual self-education of one and all; and further
• To collect together all available recorded information particularly in the form of reference
books, and to socialize and serve freely all such information to each according to his needs
at the moment; and by all such mean
• To increase the economic resources of humanity to the extent necessary to maintain the
ever-increasing population, in comfort and free from want of any kind; and also
• To help in the mutually co-operating, and mutually tolerant peaceful co-existence of
individuals, communities, and nations; and further
• To help in the elevating, self-dependent use of leisure with the aid of freely served books,
pictures, sound records, and other similar materials; and also
• To help in increasing the opportunity for the spiritual awakening of one and all the
members of humanity.

When the first mobile library hit the

road in Melavasal
Brainchild of S.V. Kanagasabai Pillai, it was opened by S.R. Ranganathan

‘Didi ki libraries’ in 100 blocks of 32

districts in Bihar by end of month
THE EXTENSION SERVICES, the Extension Services are
efforts to reach the maximum number of people; whereas Public Relation is an attempt to

interact with the people by informing about the resources and services of library as well its

importance to them. Therefore, this is an obligation of a library: to get the views of users
about its utility and quality of services from time to time; and to expand its area by making

new users and by having cooperation with new libraries. An effort of a library to increase

the number of its users to make the maximize use of its resources is called Extension

Service. It is the provision of library materials and services outside the library's regular

service centre or outle

OBJECTIVES: The main objectives of Extension Services are: To convert a library into a

social, cultural and intellectual centre; which• encourages reading; Its aim is to convert non

readers in to readers and non user to user;• To bring books and readers together.• It creates and

stimulates the desire for good reading and brings book and• reader together; To inform the

reader of all the facilities offered by the library this in turn• maximizes the use of library

resources. It is to create image of the library among the public and government.• As a means of

publicity to enlist financial support or otherwise for the• libraries.