Types of Libraries: Functions and Services

This book aims to open the doors of knowledge into various library systems in India. It is designed to explain in detail, the concept of types of libraries, their functions and services. The book is written in lucid language so that the students understand the topics without much effort. The first unit deals with the introduction of public libraries and their functions, it briefly explains the role of public libraries and also lets us learn about the role of UNESCO, IFLA, RRRLF, NKC, NLM, and IPLM. It further explains financial resources, resource mobilization in public libraries and library legislation in India. The next unit handles the public library services. It helps us understand how the public library acts as a community information centre and goes on to explain the web-based public library services, it further explains the trends and development of ICT applications in public libraries and helps us acquire knowledge on resource sharing and networking. The third unit elaborates on the functions and services of academic libraries which helps us understand the role of academic libraries in higher education and the services provided by academic libraries,  it also briefly explains the management and role of UGC and its staffing norms and standards while introducing us to e-Shodh Sindhu and N-LIST. The functions and services of special libraries are explained in detail in the fourth chapter which explains the role of CSIR, ICAR, ICMR, DRDO, ICSSR etc. and further explains alert services, web-based services etc. The fifth and final unit deals with resource planning and development. It includes resources like physical resources, intellectual resources, financial resources, human resources etc.