College Libraries

Access Trend of Open Educational Resources in the Context of Library

Miral Shivang Desai, Meghna Vyas — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Open Educational Resources (OER) increase the accessibility of learning as they reduce the cost of learning objects for each type of learner. OERs can support libraries in their mission of providing democratic education. This study used scientometric techniques to analyse research output on OER regarding the library of the last thirteen years (from 2010 to 2023). Scopus database was used to extract publications' data for the study. The study shows different scientometric parameters like year-wise, country-wise, subject-wise, accession-wise (open access and non-open access literature), and type-wise distribution of literature, authorship, highly cited, and most "cited by" literature.Year-wise growth in publications showed variation and the highest publications were during COVID-19: 2020 and 2021. The study showed that open-access publications had more citation count than non-open-access publications. The keywords network visualisation was presented using VOSviewer.

Open Access Initiatives in Agricultural Research

Riya Chakraborty, Alankrita Dutta, Laxmi Subba — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This comparative study evaluates OA practices across five agricultural powerhouses: China, the United States, Brazil, India, and Russia. Through a comprehensive literature review and analysis of policy frameworks, enforcement mechanisms, and impact, this research identifies commonalities, unique characteristics, and areas for improvement in OA initiatives. Findings reveal significant government support and institutional involvement in promoting OA, with each country showcasing distinct objectives and strategies. China emphasises global dissemination, Brazil focuses on collaboration, India prioritises inclusive development, while
Russia emphasises agricultural modernisation. Despite these differences, all countries exhibit a commitment to transparency and accessibility in research. Challenges include the standardisation of practices, enhanced monitoring, ensuring financial sustainability, and global alignment with OA standards. Recommendations include standardising policies and infrastructure, improved monitoring mechanisms, exploring alternative funding models, and greater alignment with global OA initiatives. Overall, this study contributes valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders to enhance OA practices, foster collaboration, and drive global agricultural research innovation, paving the way for a more equitable and sustainable future in agriculture.

Awareness and Use of Library Automation, Digital Library Software and Reference Management Software among LIS Postgraduate Students in South Indian Universities

Manjunatha G., B. T. Sampath Kumar — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This study examines the awareness and utilisation of automation, digitisation, and reference management tools among postgraduate Library and Information Science (LIS) students in South Indian universities. A structured questionnaire was designed and personally distributed by the researcher, yielding 493 completed responses.The datawere coded using SPSS version 26,with
statistical tests tailored to the study's research questions. The findings reveal that Koha is the most widely used library automation software, DSpace is the most utilised digital library software, andMendeley and Zotero are themost popular referencemanagement tools among the students. The study suggests that increasing awareness of available software tools and addressing infrastructure-related challenges are crucial to enhancing the utilisation of automation, digitisation, and citation management tools among LIS students in South Indian universities.

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

Prathibha S. N., Shilpa Rani N. R. — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

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.

Empowering Democracy

Sohini Sengupta, Saheli Sengupta — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

In an era characterised by rapid technological advancements and the proliferation of digital platforms, the concept of open government data has emerged as a pivotal tool in promoting transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement. This paper presents a comparative analysis of open government data initiatives in India and America, focusing on their role in empowering democracy. Drawing upon a comprehensive review of scholarly literature, government portals this study examines the evolution, implementation, and impact of open government data initiatives in both countries. It identifies key drivers and barriers shaping the
adoption and effectiveness of these initiatives. By critically evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of open government data initiatives in India and America, this paper seeks to provide insights into best practices and lessons learned for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers. Ultimately, this comparative analysis contributes to a deeper understanding of the role of open government data in advancing democratic governance and fostering citizen-centric governance models in diverse socio-political contexts.

Beyond Books

Prayangi Vishal Matonkar, V Gopakumar — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This article is focused in the potential of college librarians as agents in the fight against plagiarism and promotion of academic integrity in educational institutions. Librarians, with their deep understanding of information quality, authenticity, reliability, and relevance to the users along with providing resources and support for plagiarism prevention act as gatekeepers in the fight against plagiarism and promoting academic integrity in academia. The objective of the study was to analyse the crucial role academic librarians play in shaping academic integrity in the digital age. The data required for the study has been collected from 51 librarians working in professional and non-professional colleges in Goa state of India. Based on the review of literature it was realised that plagiarism has become a pervasive issue in academics fuelled by the ease of copy-pasting and readily available information on the Internet.The data was analysed using MS Excel and presented in the form of tables and graphs. Results revealed that librarians play a very crucial role in addressing plagiarism in academics. Study also suggests that collaborative efforts between librarian and teachers are required for the effective plagiarism prevention in academic system. The study's results validate that overcoming
obstacles is important for the successful execution of plagiarism prevention strategies within educational institutions.

EmpoweringWomen

Bairam Khan, Hafijull Mondal — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The She Research Network in India (SheRNI) serves as a pivotal platform dedicated to connecting and leveraging the knowledge, skills, and expertise of women across diverse sectors in India, empowering them through collaborative initiatives, mentorship opportunities, and knowledge-sharing endeavours. This study investigates the specific impact of SheRNI on empowering women professionals within the Library and Information Science (LIS) field. Utilising data extracted from SheRNI's comprehensive database, this research focuses on women experts in LIS, employing Microsoft Excel for data organisation and analysis to examine their distribution across different states and institutions. The findings underscore SheRNI's role in facilitating a diverse pool of experts across various disciplines, particularly highlighting its significant contribution to the advancement of expertise and collaborative
efforts within LIS. Despite these advancements, the study reveals persistent gender disparities within the LIS profession, emphasising the ongoing necessity for initiatives that promote gender equity and inclusivity. This research contributes to existing literature by offering insights into how SheRNI empowers women professionals, specifically within the LIS domain, showcasing its effectiveness in fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, and addressing gender disparities in professional representation.

PRAJÑA (Journal of Banaras Hindu University)

Abhay Chaurasia, Ajay Pratap Singh — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This article delves into a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the journal, meticulously scrutinising 505 articles published between 2014-2015 and 2019-2020, spanning six years. The study meticulously evaluates various parameters including the total count of authors, authorship patterns, year-wise article distribution, reference allocation, language utilisation, and the extent of collaborative efforts, alongside author productivity. Employing bibliometric analysis as the methodological framework underscores the rigor of this investigation. The findings elucidate that the journal maintained a biannual publication frequency from 2014 to 2020, encompassing 505 articles authored by 810 individuals. Remarkably, single-authored contributions constituted 240 articles (47.52%), while collaborative endeavours yielded 265 articles (52.48%). The degree of collaboration within the journal was quantified utilising Subramanyam's formula, revealing a consistent output of 505 articles over the six years. Moreover, the cumulative citations of published articles amounted to 7,588 references, with a notable emphasis on contributions from multiple authors.

Towards Mapping Scholarly Communication Pattern among the LIS Faculty Members ofWest Bengal

Suchitra Barman, Sibsankar Jana — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This study investigates the scholarly publication patterns of Library and Information Science (LIS) faculty members in West Bengal. Its primary aim is to analyse and visualise the publication trends across various universities in the LIS domain. Bibliographical data were gathered from Google Scholar and Google Scholar Profile Databases, and analysed using Pop software to compute bibliometric indicators and conduct statistical analyses for hypothesis testing. The findings reveal that faculty members from Kalyani University have the highest average number of publications, specifically 79. Additionally, Associate Professors contribute
more significantly to scholarly output compared to other academic positions. A positive and robust correlation coefficient of 0.6441668 between publications and citations indicates a strong correlation. This study contributes uniquely to the field as no previous research has exclusively explored the publication patterns of LIS faculty members in West Bengal. Its insights are valuable for understanding and bench marking scholarly productivity in this academic discipline within the region.

Developing a Digital Archive on Cultural Heritage Information System of Murshidabad using GSDL Software

Dibakar Das, Shuvasish Sarkar — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This paper outlines the development of a digital archive using open-source digital library software, focusing on creating a Cultural Heritage Information System for Murshidabad using GSDL(Greenstone Digital Library) Software. The archive aims to benefit heritage enthusiasts and tourists by providing up-to-date information on Murshidabad's cultural heritage. The methodology involves key processes such as documentation, digitisation, metadata creation, software customisation, testing, and promotion. Materials such as books and journal articles related to Murshidabad are selected, scanned, or typed and saved in formats likePDF, DOC, and JPG to serve as digital objects. The paper aims to preserve, make accessible, raise awareness, and engage the community in heritage preservation. It underscores the significance of preserving and sharing heritage information for current and future generations. This article is intended to assist digital archive developers, heritage organisations, and library professionals in developing and customising digital collections using GSDL, thereby supporting the establishment and enhancement of digital libraries in their respective institutions.