Libraries in Higher Education in India

Abstract

This was presented at the Third International Conference of the University Librarians Association of Sri Lanka, held on 8 and 9 June 2007, Galadari Hotel Colombo, Sri Lanka. The presentation briefly discusses the genesis of the education system in India from third century to present scenario. This includes formal and informal education, Gurukul and Traditional System, Scientific and Technical Education. The higher education system includes role of the guiding and quality controlling authorities such as UGC, AICTE, NACC etc. The state of libraries in higher education institutions in India and their role is the main consideration of the presentation. The development of academic institutions and their libraries have been discussed from the point of view of government as well as public sector. The presentation also discusses problems related to finance and other issues. The state owned academic institutions face severe financial crisis as the axe falls on the libraries affecting the higher education system and intellectual growth. The major issues of automation, digitization, copyright, institutional repository, consortium support, networks support, staff resistance, training etc. also find due attention in the presentation. It also emphasizes the need of overall restructuring and reframing higher education policies as envisaged by the D.S. Kothari commission expecting six percent budget allocation on higher education. A few recommendations to the UGC are included. The presentation closes with the remarks on emerging trends and future perspectives in the field of libraries in higher education in India.