Emergence of Digital Library Services in India

Abstract

This paper emphasizes the significance of digital libraries in present information era and describes their superstructure and technological requirements. It mainly depicts various aspects of digital library development and different types of reference services being provided in digital environment which include: (i) personalized services (ii) web-based reference and information services (iii) search engine services (iv) digital reference services for general public as well as academic community (v) co-operative digital library service. This paper highlights present scenario of digital library services in India. It outlines the initiatives taken by the UGC, India, the INFLIBNET Centre, DELNET, IITs, RECs , National Research Organisations/ Institutions of India in the digitization of libraries and information centres in order to provide digital library services. Further it suggests that in a developing country like India where resources are limited, funds are inadequate the library and information professionals should develop their skill and proficiency to meet the challenges of technological developments and changes emerging out of digital library services.