Library at your doorstep practical experience of Gurudas College library, Kolkata

Abstract

“Library users are decreasing” is a common statement that we often utter. However, how to increase the number of users should be thoroughly examined. Not only open the library beyond office hours, here discussed in detail different methods applied to take the library to the doorstep of each user to increase the interest in the library. The methods include the creation of the library’s website and announcing different events through it; providing access to a varied range of online journals, e-books and databases; maintaining Web-OPAC for the benefit of users; uploading e-contents of class notes, organizing webinars, different programmes; uploading syllabus and question papers; uploading full-text e-resources for the benefit of teaching and learning community; creating and maintaining YouTube channel; creating and maintaining the Facebook group as well as Telegram group, and maintain physical library service for the benefit of users following COVID-19 guidelines. In this connection, emphasis has been given to increasing the aesthetic beauty of the library that attracts users to the library premises. Pointed out the importance of transparent as well as unbiased library service to bring trust among the users.