Page 34 - DLIS402_INFORMATION_ANALYSIS_AND_REPACKAGING

Unit 2: Information Consolidation

Definitions Notes

• A library network is broadly described as a group of libraries coming together with some
agreement of understanding to help each other with a view to satisfying the information
needs of their clientele.
• UNISIST II working document defines Information Network as a set of inter-related informa-
tion systems associated with communication facilities, which are cooperating through more
or less formal agreements in order to implement information handling operations to offer
better services to the users.
• The National Commission on Libraries & Information Science in its National Programme
Document (1975).

Two or more libraries engaged in a common pattern of information exchange,
through communications for some functional purpose.

Objectives

• To promote and support adoption of standards in library operations.
• To create databases for projects, specialists and institutions to provide online information
services.
• To improve the efficiency of housekeeping operations.
• To coordinate with other regional, national & international network for exchange of informa-
tion and documents.
• To generate new services and to improve the efficiency of existing ones.

2.5.1 Network Development in India

Some factors that are responsible for the development of library and information networks in India
are:
• The report of the working group of the planning commission on modernization of library
services and informatics for the seventh five year plan, 1985-90.
• The National Policy on Library & Information systems document (1986) accepted by the min-
istry of HRD, Government of India.
• The report on national policy on university libraries prepared by the Association of Indian
Universities (1987).
• The UGC report on information systems for science and technology under the Department of
Science & Industrial Research (DSIR) Government of India has been vigorously promoting an
integrated approach to library automation and networking.

2.5.2 Limitations in Network Development

A network may fail in the early stages if there is not proper planning or if adequate funds are not
available. Moreover, a common memorandum of agreement signed by the participating libraries at
the institutional level is essential for the success of a network venture. On a more practical level,
catalogue data must be in a standard, machine readable form for it to be shared and exchanged. And,
finally, a continuous flow of external assistance is crucial for the network’s survival.

LOVELY PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY 29