CALIBER 2025: Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh
Permanent URI for this collection
Browse
Recent Submissions
Item Knowledge Democratisation Towards Viksit Bharat Through Open Access: Challenges and Role of Librarians(INFLIBNET Centre Gandhinagar, 2025-12-08) S, Sudarshan RaoThis paper discusses the importance of democratization of knowledge in providing equitable access to knowledge for all in the country for achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat, a developed nation, by 2047. In all the activities, such as excellence in education, innovation, research, development, and economic advancements, technology development, employment, etc., open and free access to scholarly information is of vital importance. The paper offers the meaning of Democratization, Open Access and Open Access Publishing, their importance in building a Knowledge Society and thereby a knowledge Economy. It describes how knowledge democratization helps in achieving Viksit Bharat and the role of open access in the democratization of knowledge. It also discusses the challenges of open access publishing, such as the proliferation of predatory OA journals, the burden on authors with huge amounts of Article Processing Charges, apprehensions about the quality of OA publications by a section of authors, Copyrights as access limitations, etc. The paper discusses the role of librarians in overcoming the challenges/constraints to Open Access. This work followed Descriptive and Analytical methods of study and made use of secondary sources of information and secondary dataItem Tracking the Evolution of Research Themes in CALIBER Conferences: A Topic Modelling Approach Using LDA(INFLIBNET Centre Gandhinagar, 2025-12-08) Chakraborty, Subhayan; Verma, Manoj KumarThe Convention on Automation of Libraries in Education and Research Institutions (CALIBER) has made a significant contribution to Indian Library and Information Science research and dissemination. The present study aims to analyze the evolving landscape of LIS research presented at five CALIBER conferences (2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2022). We apply LDA (Latent Dirichlet Allocation) to identify key latent research topics from full-text papers published in these conferences. The study also uncovers trends and thematic evolution in those research topics over time. The results reveal a steady research focus on areas such as ‘Open-access and Academic Publishing’ and ‘Use of Library Resources’. It also highlights some emerging topics, e.g., ‘Technology-Enhanced Library Services’. The study highlights underexplored areas and suggests directions for future LIS research in India. The paper will benefit future researchers and LIS professionals in understanding the LIS research landscape in IndiaItem Smart Libraries and Makerspaces in School and College Libraries: Innovations, Challenges, and Their Role in Empowering a Viksit Bharat 2047(INFLIBNET Centre Gandhinagar, 2025-12-08) Jayashree Patra; Bal, Pritish Chandra; Das, Subarna KumarPurpose: This study explores the current status, challenges, and transformative potential of smart libraries and makerspaces in school and college libraries, particularly within the Kolkata region, in contributing to the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. Design/Method: A descriptive survey design was employed, utilizing purposive sampling, to collect data from 50 respondents, comprising librarians, teachers, IT professionals, administrators, students, and research scholars from schools and colleges. Quantitative data were gathered via a structured Google Form and supported by case studies from Atal Tinkering Lab-enabled institutions. Comparative analysis and a chi-square test were used to examine institutional differences. Findings: The study revealed moderate smart library adoption (64% schools, 75% colleges) and limited makerspace presence (26%). No significant link was found between institution type and adoption. Key challenges included funding, staffing, and training shortages. All respondents agreed that smart infrastructure aligns with the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision. Limitations: The sample size was limited to 50 participants within Kolkata and may not represent national trends. The study relied on self-reported data. Practical Implementation: The findings guide institutions in planning, resource allocation, and training initiatives for future-ready learning spaces. Originality/Value: This paper highlights grassroots-level insights into how smart libraries and makerspaces can empower students and educators to build an innovative, inclusive, and future-ready IndiaItem Research Support Services in the Central Universities Library of North India: An Analytical Study(INFLIBNET Centre Gandhinagar, 2025-12-08) Tamrakar, Dhruv Kumar; Sonkar, Sharad Kumar; Saraf, Sanjiv; Srivastava, PrachiResearch and libraries are closely linked. Research is a systematic process, and libraries serve as a platform, providing all necessary services and tools to assist researchers at various stages. This study examines the research support services at Libraries of Central Universities in the North Indian region. It employs a descriptive research design and a purposive sampling method encompassing all central universities in the North India region. Data were collected through careful observation of the official library websites of the selected universities. Nine categories of research support services were identified to serve as evaluation criteria for a 5- point rating scale. University rankings were established based on the availability of tools within the identified categories. The research findings indicate that only two universities scored 8 (eight) marks, reflecting maximum availability of research support services. In contrast, most 15 universities secured marks between 6 and 7, placing them in a good category, indicating satisfactory services but highlighting the need for improvement. Other universities were rated between 5 and 1, signifying a lack of institutional support and awareness of research activities. Some popular research support services and tools identified include open access resources, ONOS, and anti-plagiarism tools. Additionally, a few universities utilize library apps and writing and reference management tools. The results demonstrate an uneven distribution of essential RSS tools among the libraries of central universities in the North Indian region. This study emphasizes the need to provide research support services tailored to scholars’ specific needs, which would lead to improved research outputsItem Intellectual Property Management in Healthcare Startups in Thiruvananthapuram and the transformative role of Libraries(INFLIBNET Centre Gandhinagar, 2025-12-08) Gopi, DimpleThis study investigates the intellectual property (IP) management practices of healthcare startups based in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. It explores their primary IP assets, strategic approaches, challenges faced, awareness of government initiatives, and the significance of training in IP management. Despite the existence of supportive government schemes such as Startup India - which offers benefits like expedited patent processing and legal facilitation - awareness and utilization remain low. The structured training and guidance in IP management are lacking. A key focus of this research is to examine how libraries, particularly academic and public institutions, can address these knowledge gaps. By offering access to IP databases, hosting training sessions, supporting research, and connecting startups with expert resources, libraries have the potential to evolve into critical innovation and IP support hubs. The findings provide insights into the current state of IP practices in the region and recommend strategies for policymakers, incubators, and libraries to collectively foster a more IP-literate and resilient startup ecosystemItem A Review of Integrating AI Chatbots into Library Services in Higher Education: Opportunities and Challenges(INFLIBNET Centre Gandhinagar, 2025-12-08) Bairagi, Mandira; Lihitkar, Shalini; Dhanalakshmi, BThis article investigates the increasingly popular phenomenon of integrating chatbots into library services while also considering their potential uses and associated challenges. By providing a review and synthesis of the relevant literature and empirical studies, the study investigates the implications of Chatbots for user experience, information retrieval, and the role of the librarian. Due to technology moving ahead quickly, AI-based chatbots are becoming more common in various sectors such as e-commerce, travel, hospitality, banking, and educational technology. However, academic libraries have yet to embrace chatbots. The findings indicate that chatbot like ChatGPT has the potential to enhance service availability, prolong access to library services, and provide more personalized user support, as well as reduce librarian routine tasks and enhance the quality of information retrieval. This paper presents a qualitative study that investigated the perceived risks and barriers of adopting chatbots to libraries and the benefits of chatbots to improve the user experience of library patrons and stakeholders. The benefits of incorporating chatbots into a library are their potential to improve user satisfaction, enhance virtual student services, and offer multiple rollover services in an academic environment. In addition, the study, again, allows for the consideration of challenges, such as the use accuracy of the information provided, privacy of data, and data security when implementing a chatbot in a library in an effective and ethical way. The present study provides useful information to consider for future research and practice in sufficiently and ethically integrating chatbots into contemporary library contextsItem Viksit Bharat @2047: Transforming Public Libraries into Engines of Knowledge and Innovation(INFLIBNET Centre Gandhinagar, 2025-12-08) Muppidi, Srinivasa Rao; Kothapati, Kumara Swamy Reddy; Kottapalli, Siva ShankarPublic libraries provide information to people in need, regardless of their community's social and financial status, age, or educational background. This paper assesses the role of public libraries in meeting the information needs of users and the requirements they face in the digital era, through a review of the literature and an analysis of public library services based on demographic information of the community. India has over 70,000 public libraries, but has faced numerous issues, including inadequate infrastructure, insufficient funding to operate the libraries, and limited computer facilities. Digital India, the National Mission on Libraries, needs to offer a promising framework for a renaissance. Public libraries play a significant role in transforming the Indian knowledge society by 2047. Public libraries promote digital inclusion, lifelong learning, and information literacy programs, building a bridge to eradicate socio-economic divides and developing smart libraries and knowledge centres. This paper explores the strategic planning and policy frameworks that unlock the potential of public libraries in IndiaItem Transforming India: Role of Libraries in Citizen Science for Achieving Sustainable Development(INFLIBNET Centre Gandhinagar, 2025-12-08) Adattil, Hafsath; K, Mohamed HaneefaAs a social institution, libraries ensure their readiness to support the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and act as a trusted network that effectively reaches the country's entire population, regardless of discrimination. Libraries significantly contribute to achieving this by promoting universal literacy (media, information, and digital) and bridging the gaps in information access. They have a considerable influence on various SDGs by promoting lifelong learning through access to different information sources, including print and digital materials, reducing inequalities by ensuring information access for marginalized communities, promoting social inclusion, strong institutions by building inclusive societies through participatory initiatives, etc. Furthermore, they serve as a hub for delivering public services and programs, support digital inclusion by offering access to ICT, and provide guidance to develop digital skills, research, and innovations. Citizen science, the public participation in scientific research, is a new approach that is gaining wider acceptance as a tool for achieving the SDGs, and this paper analyses the role of libraries in citizen science to attain the SDGs through a literature review and analysis of YouTube videos. The results show that libraries play a multifaceted role in citizen science initiatives, and this collaboration will lead to the development of India towards Viksit BharatItem Role of Libraries in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): A study of Best Practices followed in IIT libraries of India(INFLIBNET Centre Gandhinagar, 2025-12-08) Dhingra, Nav Jyoti; Vasishta, SeemaLibraries are evolving beyond traditional information repositories to become proactive agents in supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study examines the critical role of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) libraries in aligning library practices with the SDG agenda. Through a detailed analysis of selected IIT libraries, the paper identifies innovative services, outreach initiatives, and policy implementations that embody global sustainability principles. The findings reveal that IIT libraries make significant contributions to quality education (SDG 4), industry innovation (SDG 9), and reduced inequalities (SDG 10) by promoting open access, digital literacy, inclusivity, and green practices. The study also highlights replicable best practices that can inform library strategies across higher education institutions in India and beyondItem Reaching the Unreached to Empower Citizens in Democracy: Scope, Opportunities, Possibilities and Challenges of Peripatetic Libraries(INFLIBNET Centre Gandhinagar, 2025-12-08) K, GireesanIn many parts of the world, access to knowledge and information continues to be a distant dream for marginalized communities, especially those in remote, conflict-prone, or climate- vulnerable regions. This paper explores the concept and practice of peripatetic libraries— mobile, flexible, and community-oriented initiatives that bring books and learning resources to the doorstep of the underserved. From camel libraries in Kenya and boat libraries in Bangladesh to donkey libraries in Colombia and mobile van libraries in India, these unconventional library models are powerful tools for democratizing education, fostering civic engagement, and advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Drawing upon theoretical frameworks such as Amartya Sen’s capability approach and Habermas’ public sphere, the paper highlights how access to information is critical to democratic citizenship. The paper also aligns the vision of peripatetic libraries with SDG-4 (Quality Education) and India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, arguing for their integration into formal educational frameworks. Through global case studies, opportunities, and policy recommendations, the study advocates for peripatetic libraries not as peripheral experiments but as core democratic innovations essential for reaching the unreached and empowering citizens at the marginsItem Measuring Societal Impact: An Altmetrics Analysis of SDG Research in Sustainability Journal(INFLIBNET Centre Gandhinagar, 2025-12-08) kushwaha, Sagar Singh; Singh, Milan; Verma, Nitesh KumarScholarly interest in social media has increased, prompting researchers to incorporate these platforms into their studies. The study utilises altmetric analysis to determine whether the Altmetric Attention Score is a good representative for citation counts and whether it can accurately complement traditional research metrics. The study consists of 4,859 documents published in 2018 in the journal Sustainability, and only about one-fifth of the articles had an AAS greater than 1. The mean AAS was 2, while the median AAS stood at 0. Regarding citations, the average number was 23.44 (95% CI: 22.55-24.32), whereas the average AAS was 2.08 (95% CI: 1.9-2.4) for documents published in 2018. Spearman correlation analysis was utilised to evaluate the relationship between altmetrics and citation counts using SPSS software. The findings revealed a weak positive correlation (r = 0.20) between AAS and the number of citations. Significant interactions were noted on Twitter, where AAS demonstrated a strong positive correlation (r = 0.74). Furthermore, AAS and policy-related sources showed a positive correlation (r = 0.42). The analysis revealed a weak correlation among online sources and a negative correlation with blogs and patents. However, it showed a moderate correlation with policy sources, indicating that AAS may help predict the influence of research related to the Sustainable Development Goals. The impact of social media on engagement with sustainability journals is limited due to mixed responses from scholars and low public awareness of SDG researchItem Library Services to Differently Abled Persons in ICT Environment(INFLIBNET Centre Gandhinagar, 2025-12-08) Ranganadham, S; Rao, P Madhava; Babu, K SurendraThis study investigates how advances in information and communication technology (ICT) have altered the traditional library landscape into one that is dynamic, inclusive, and user- centric. This shift holds great promise for people with disabilities (DAPs), who frequently confront physical and social hurdles to accessing information. Libraries in India are gradually using ICT-based assistive devices to give fair access to information to the unreached disabled people to pursue and enhance their knowledge. This article investigates the current state, difficulties, and potential of ICT-based library services for differently abled people in India, providing insights into policy implications, best practices, and the road aheadItem Libraries, Digital Inclusion and Sustainable Development: The Indian Experience(INFLIBNET Centre Gandhinagar, 2025-12-08) Yadagiri, S; Ramshirish, MThe main objectives of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are to eliminate poverty, foster prosperity for all, and safeguard the environment. Libraries, as institutions of knowledge, support a number of SDGs, particularly those on quality education, gender equality, economic growth, and reducing inequalities. Based on selected case studies from India and existing literature, this article explores how libraries serve as inclusive learning spaces, community empowerment sites, and information access points, ensuring that marginalized groups are not left behind. It also examines how libraries enable digital inclusion, which in turn speeds up the achievement of the SDGs. Initiatives like the National Digital Library of India are helping in removing the barriers of education by offering free digital textbooks, articles, videos, audiobooks, lectures, simulations, and other instructional materials to facilitate lifelong learning, particularly in rural areas. In rural India, Libraries that host Common Service Centres (CSCs) offer livelihood skills training, health information, and e-governance services. State level programmes, such as Kerala’s digital literacy campaigns led by Kerala State Library Council and Rajasthan’s internet access facility programs for women serve as examples of how libraries are supporting gender equality and bridging the digital gender divide. The global role of libraries as inclusive agents of digital transformation is emphasised by frameworks such as IFLA's Library Map of the SDGs. However, challenges still exist, including inadequate internet access, limited funding, and fragmented policy support, which need to be addressed to strengthen the role of Libraries in advancing the SDG agendaItem Libraries in Promoting SDGs and SDG 3 in specific (Good Health & Wellbeing): Awareness of Indian Librarians(INFLIBNET Centre Gandhinagar, 2025-12-02) V K, Thahira Shirin; Sarma, SujathaWith an emphasis on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and specifically SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being, libraries are essential for promoting public health awareness, guaranteeing access to trustworthy health information, and facilitating community well- being, in addition to providing information, a variety of resources, and digital literacy. The study investigates librarians' knowledge of the SDGs and their degree of involvement in promoting these goals through library services by means of a quantitative survey that was given to 100 librarians working in academic, medical, and public libraries in India. The results show that although librarians are generally aware of the SDGs, their specific knowledge and involvement with SDGs and SDG3 is still quite poor. Lack of knowledge, scarcity of funding, and lack of cooperation with health-related organizations are the main challenges. Respondents did, however, indicate a desire to help through medical camps, health literacy initiatives, collaborations with healthcare providers, and the application of cutting-edge technologies like AR/VR and mobile health kiosks to achieve SDG 3(Good Health & Well-being). In order to enable libraries to more successfully contribute to these goals, the study ends by suggesting focused training, resource support, and institutional collaboration. As India works towards its 2047 goal of becoming a "Viksit Bharat," strengthening the roles of librarians in the SDG agenda will be essentialItem Libraries Empowering Differently-abled Students in Higher Education Institutions in Tamil Nadu – A Study(INFLIBNET Centre Gandhinagar, 2025-12-02) A Bagavathi; Kumar, S K AsokThis study explores the transformative role of academic libraries in empowering differently- abled students across Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Tamil Nadu. Grounded in the mandates of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016 and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the research investigates how libraries are evolving into inclusive spaces through adaptive infrastructure, assistive technologies, and user-cantered services. Employing a mixed-method approach, the study draws from surveys and interviews conducted across ten HEIs, encompassing students, faculty, and library professionals. Findings reveal a high level of awareness regarding inclusive library services (90%), yet highlight persistent challenges in the implementation of assistive tools, staff training, and policy enforcement. While institutions like Tamil Nadu Open University, Bharathidasan University, and The Tamil Nadu Dr. Ambedkar Law University exemplify best practices through specialized labs and accessible learning materials, the majority of institutions still face systemic barriers including inadequate funding, infrastructure gaps, and limited faculty-library collaboration. The study emphasizes the critical need for institutional policy development, diversified investment in assistive technologies, ongoing professional training, and strategic partnerships with NGOs and technology providers. It concludes that while Tamil Nadu’s academic libraries are progressively advancing toward inclusivity, sustained efforts and systemic reforms are essential to ensure equitable academic participation for differently-abled studentsItem Libraries as Pathmakers: IoT-Based Hygrothermal Control for Sustainable Educational Spaces(INFLIBNET Centre Gandhinagar, 2025-12-02) Sharath, G V Krishna; Thakur, KhusbuSchool libraries face significant problems in establishing and maintaining stable hygrothermal variables essential for the long-term preservation of literary materials and educational resources. This difficulty is further exacerbated by the presence of numerous distractions within educational institutions, combined with limited staff and inadequate infrastructure. The study presents an Internet of Things (IoT) based monitoring and control system that utilises microcontrollers, sensors, and automated devices to enable real-time regulation of temperature and humidity. The proposed system mitigates deviations from established preservation thresholds and lays the groundwork for data-based environmental management practices. By utilising economical and energy-efficient solutions, this system aligns with broader objectives aimed at the sustainable development of educational entities. Through the adoption of IoT, libraries have the potential to evolve into innovative, efficient resources while maintaining a steadfast dedication to educational reform and addressing climate change as a pathmaker to the SDGs of the United NationsItem EnviAndhra: Gamifying Environmental Awareness Through Library- Led Digital Platforms(INFLIBNET Centre Gandhinagar, 2025-12-02) Kantubhuktha, Surya Naveen; Joshi, Nisha SunilGamified platforms enhance engagement and promote behavioral change by fostering experiential learning and encouraging users to engage with environmental issues, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study investigates the role of libraries as proactive advocates for environmental awareness and education by developing EnviAndhra, a gamified digital platform that promotes eco-literacy, sustainable behavior, and community participation. Taking advantage of libraries' trusted and accessible status, this research offers an innovative integration of game-based learning, community involvement, and environmental data tracking inside a library-led ecosystem. The goal is to provide an engaging and scalable solution for raising environmental awareness among adolescents and the broader public through narrative, challenges, and regional environmental initiatives. The researcher proposed ways to raise environmental awareness via a gamified platform. One way to distribute information, whether digital or tangible, is through librariesItem An Evaluation of Academic Libraries Empowering Women, Children, and Differently-abled Individuals in Uttar Pradesh(INFLIBNET Centre Gandhinagar, 2025-12-02) Sharma, Neha; Sharma, JyotiAcademic libraries are crucial instruments for fostering equitable access to information, especially among underrepresented groups such as women, children, and differently-abled individuals. In the state of Uttar Pradesh, India, substantial urban-rural disparities substantially influence the availability and utilization of library resources. This study evaluates how these disparities impact educational empowerment by analyzing service accessibility, digital inclusion, and user engagement. It is employing a mixed-methods approach; data were analyzed for 480 participants across 66 academic institutions in eight cities, supported by quantitative metrics and qualitative feedback. The study reveals that while urban women and children demonstrate higher library engagement and better educational achievements, differently-abled users continue to face difficulties owing to inadequate assistive technologies and insufficient staff training. Children see the greatest academic gains, while women benefit in digital literacy and self-confidence. Despite strong motivation, differently-abled users remain underserved. Digital platforms like NDLI and DIKSHA exist, yet their impact is constrained by limited awareness, poor infrastructure, and exclusionary practices. Barriers such as short operating hours, lack of quiet zones, and absence of inclusive or gender-sensitive resources disproportionately affect rural and marginalized users. The study highlights the urgent requirement for upgraded infrastructure, inclusive policy development, and targeted staff training, concluding with practical strategies aimed at reducing access disparities and fostering empowerment among all user groups in both urban and rural areasItem An Equitable Approach towards 21st Century Public Library Systems in India: a Case Study(INFLIBNET Centre Gandhinagar, 2025-12-02) Nigam, Anukrati; Mujral, RajniThe landscape of library systems in urban and rural libraries of India faces multiple challenges. A cultural shift and focus are needed towards reviving the culture of reading and public libraries outside the libraries of educational institutions and universities in India. In this study, the authors analyze the library systems in India and propose the Toronto Public Library model, largest and busiest public library in North America as an adaptable framework for revisioning library systems for the world’s largest democracy - 21st century India. Furthermore, a case study of libraries in rural areas of Punjab is highlighted to address the needs for an equitable framework of distribution and access to libraries for socially excluded groups, women and people with disabilities. Libraries have the potential to be a transformative space for skills and intellectual development for the general public while bridging the socio-economic divideItem Access, Equity, and Quality of Information in the Indian Context(INFLIBNET Centre Gandhinagar, 2025-12-02) K., Sreelatha; A., MohananIn India’s dynamic and diverse socio-cultural landscape, access, equity, and quality of information are essential for participatory governance, educational advancement, and inclusive development. This paper examines these interlinked dimensions within the Indian context, analysing the infrastructural, socio-political, and technological challenges that shape information dissemination and utilisation. Despite progressive policies like the Right to Information Act (2005), Digital India, and One Nation One Subscription, disparities persist due to language barriers, digital illiteracy, and infrastructural limitations. Equity concerns remain prominent among marginalised groups, including Scheduled Castes, women, persons with disabilities, and rural populations, often excluded from digital resources due to structural constraints. The study highlights the role of libraries, both academic and public, as well as digital resources, as critical access points, but notes their limitations in terms of funding and modernisation. It also emphasises the importance of ensuring quality through reliable, relevant, and updated content, particularly in academic and governmental domains, while combating predatory publishing and misinformation. Technological innovations and policy interventions, such as SWAYAM, NDLI, and Open Government Data platforms, offer promising directions. Drawing comparisons with global models, the paper advocates for inclusive design, multilingual support, and community-centred digital strategies to ensure equitable and high- quality information access for all citizens