Towards the Establishment of Digital Library: An Investigation into the Current Status of University Libraries in Bangladesh

Abstract

Purpose The main aim of this research is to assess the current status of digital library services in Bangladesh. It examines the use of and satisfaction with university subscribed online resources by the faculty members, identify impediments faced by them in case of managing and accessing e-resources. It also provides recommendations for overcoming the problems that hinder the development of digital library and access to digital resources by the faculty members. Methodology This study employs a quantitative research methodology for collecting data from the librarians and faculty members. A total of 45 public and 103 private universities were primarily selected for the survey. Two sets of structured questionnaires were designed as instruments of collecting data which contained both open- and close-ended questions. Chi-square and non-parametric tests such as Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis were carried out. Major findings Two categories of results were reported in this study, such as (1) findings which covered the current status of digital library initiatives, and (2) faculty perceptions towards digital resources in both public and private universities in Bangladesh. From the library survey, it was found that most university libraries lack IT-related facilities and majority of the libraries were partially automated and only a few libraries were fully automated. Besides, the training on the use of databases, digital content management, network administration, metadata management, etc. are crucially needed for the library staff working at various public and private universities in the country. The faculty survey results revealed that university teachers are well aware of digital resources but due to the inadequate IT infrastructure and insufficient access to e-resources, they were not generally satisfied with the current level of e-resources accessed by the libraries. Originality/Value This is the first time an attempt has been made to assess the current status of digital library and at the same time the use of university-paid digital resources by the faculty members in Bangladesh.