Information and communication technology infrastructure in special libraries in Kerala
Haneefa K. Mohamed · Annals of Library and Information Studies · 2006
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure is an important resource of a modern library or information centre. ICT is the electronic means of capturing, processing, storing and communicating information. It encompasses an array of hardware, software, services and networks that enable access to digital information. This study investigates the current state-of-the-art information and communication technology infrastructure and the extent of use of electronic information resources in special libraries in Kerala. The following methods were used to collect data for the investigation: (a) questionnaire surveys of librarians, (b) semi-structured interviews with librarians and (c) observational visits in the libraries. All the special libraries of Kerala that were using information and communication technologies were selected for the study. The data collected were analysed and inferences made based on standard statistical methods. The investigation provides useful information about the current state-of-the-art ICT infrastructure and use of electronic information resources in special libraries in Kerala. Though the special libraries in Kerala have hardware, software and communication facilities to some extent, ICT based resources and services are not reaching the users to the expected extent. This has severely affected the provision of ICT based resources and services. The findings of this study would assist special libraries in India to develop strategies and policies that could make better use of ICT based resources and services.