Comparative Analysis of Digitisation and Digital Preservation Efforts in Libraries of Autonomous Institutions and Private Universities in Bengaluru

Abstract

This research examines and compares the status of digitisation efforts in academic libraries of autonomous institutions and private universities in Bengaluru, investigating the circumstances and obstacles faced in effective information dissemination and technological considerations.A sample of 22 libraries, including 11 from private universities and 11 from autonomous colleges,
was studied through questionnaires distributed to their librarians. Findings reveal that all surveyed libraries (100%) have digitisation and digital preservation policies in place, with 73.69% using DSpace software and 84.2% having librarians oversee digitisation initiatives. The study is limited to libraries in Bengaluru and highlights that university libraries are more engaged in digitisation compared to college libraries. It emphasises the need for significant contributions from stakeholders, including decision-makers, librarians, and information professionals, to continue and advance digitisation efforts. Furthermore, it stresses the importance of developing comprehensive library collections and establishing effective digital library systems to support ongoing digitisation initiatives.