IGNOU MLIE-106 Solved Question Paper PDF Download

IGNOU MLIE-106 Previous Year Solved Question Paper in Hindi

IGNOU MLIE-106 Previous Year Solved Question Paper in English

Q1. Discuss the different phases of origin and growth of public libraries in India.

Ans. The origin and growth of public libraries in India is a long historical process that can be divided into the following distinct phases: 1. Ancient Period: In ancient India, libraries were not public in the modern sense, but there was a rich tradition of knowledge collection and preservation. Universities like Nalanda , Taxila , and Vikramshila housed massive libraries, collectively known as ‘Dharmaganj’. These libraries were primarily for scholars, monks, and students, but they were major centres of learning. Manuscripts were stored on palm leaves and birch bark. Although not open to the general public, they laid the foundation for the importance of knowledge in Indian society. 2. Medieval Period: During the medieval period, Mughal emperors and other rulers established personal and courtly libraries. Rulers like Akbar, Jahangir, and Shah Jahan were great patrons of art and literature. They established vast collections of manuscripts, paintings, and calligraphy. These libraries too were restricted to the royal family, scholars, and courtiers. However, the tradition of knowledge preservation continued during this period. 3. British Period: The foundation of modern public libraries in India was laid during the British period. In the early 19th century, the first public libraries were established in the three presidency towns – Calcutta (1836), Bombay (1845), and Madras (1850s). These libraries primarily served the needs of the European community and the educated Indian elite.

• Contribution of Baroda: A landmark in the public library movement was the establishment of a statewide public library system in the state of Baroda by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1910. He appointed an American librarian, W.A. Borden, and established a network of libraries that included a central library, district libraries, taluka libraries, and travelling libraries.
• Formation of Library Associations: The formation of associations like the Andhra Desa Library Association in 1914 and the Indian Library Association (ILA) in 1933 gave further impetus to the library movement.

4. Post-Independence Period:

After independence, the national and state governments focused on the development of public libraries.

• Library Legislation: Dr. S.R. Ranganathan emphasized the need for library legislation for the systematic development of public libraries. In 1948, the erstwhile Madras state (now Tamil Nadu) became the first state in India to pass a Public Library Act. This was followed by many other states.
• Raja Rammohun Roy Library Foundation (RRRLF): In 1972, the Government of India established the RRRLF as a nodal agency to promote, support, and modernize public library services in the country.
• Five-Year Plans: The government allocated funds for library development through various Five-Year Plans.
• NAPLIS: In 1986, the National Policy on Library and Information System (NAPLIS) was drafted with the aim of creating an integrated framework for library services in the country.

Today, the public library system in India is a vast network, extending to the state, district, block, and village levels, and is modernizing itself to meet the challenges of the digital age.

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Q1. What is a public library ? Explain the social factors affecting the growth of public library as a social institution.

Ans. Definition of a Public Library: According to the UNESCO Public Library Manifesto (1994), “The public library is the local centre of information, making all kinds of knowledge and information readily available to its users.” It is an institution established by society, funded by public money, and open to all without discrimination of caste, creed, class, gender, or age. It is a living force for democracy, education, and culture. It promotes self-education, lifelong learning, and the intellectual development of the community. Social Factors Affecting the Growth of Public Libraries: As a social institution, the development and growth of the public library are deeply intertwined with various social factors. The major factors are as follows:

1. Spread of Education and Literacy: An increase in the literacy rate directly fuels the demand for libraries. As more people learn to read and write, they seek books and other reading materials for knowledge, information, and recreation. Government educational policies, such as ‘Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan’, have promoted literacy, creating a larger user base for public libraries.
2. Development of Democratic Values: Democracy depends on an informed citizenry. Public libraries enable citizens to make informed decisions by providing information from various viewpoints. They provide access to information on government policies, laws, and social issues, thereby promoting transparency and accountability. As democratic values strengthen in a society, the importance of institutions that provide free and equal access to information grows.
3. Urbanization and Industrialization: Urbanization leads to the migration of people from villages to cities, bringing together people from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. In urban life, traditional community spaces diminish. In such a scenario, the public library emerges as an important community hub and a social space where people can meet, learn, and participate in cultural activities.
4. Social and Cultural Reform Movements: In the 19th and 20th centuries, social reformers like Raja Rammohun Roy and Swami Vivekananda emphasized the eradication of social evils through education and knowledge. These movements promoted the establishment of libraries for the dissemination of knowledge. Libraries were seen as an instrument of social change and modernization.
5. Economic Development: The economic condition of a country directly affects the funding of public libraries. A strong economy allows governments to invest more in the infrastructure, collection, and services of libraries. Furthermore, economic growth increases people’s leisure time and resources, encouraging them to make greater use of library services.
6. Technological Changes: The advent of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has transformed public libraries. The Internet, e-books, and digital databases have widened access to information. Libraries that adopt these technologies remain more relevant to their community and attract the younger generation.

In essence, the public library is not just a repository of books but a dynamic social institution whose growth is linked to the educational, political, economic, and technological progress of society.

Q2. Explain the role of Department of Culture, Government of India and Raja Ram Mohan Roy Library Foundation (RRRLF) in the development of public libraries in India.

Ans. The role of the Department of Culture, Government of India, and the Raja Rammohun Roy Library Foundation (RRRLF) in the development of public libraries in India is highly significant and complementary.

Role of the Department of Culture, Government of India: The Department of Culture, under the Government of India, is the apex body for formulating policies and coordinating the development of libraries and information services at the national level. Its key roles include:

• Policy Formulation: The department drafts national policies for the development of library services in the country and oversees their implementation. The development of the National Policy on Library and Information System (NAPLIS) was a major step in this direction.
• Maintenance of Libraries of National Importance: It administers and funds institutions of national importance such as the National Library of India (Kolkata), the Central Secretariat Library (New Delhi), and the Delhi Public Library.
• Financial Assistance: The department provides financial assistance through various schemes to state governments and non-governmental organizations for the establishment, building construction, and modernization of libraries.
• Coordination: It establishes coordination among state governments, RRRLF, and other agencies to ensure uniformity and effectiveness in library development efforts.
• International Cooperation: The Department of Culture collaborates with international organizations like UNESCO and IFLA and promotes the adoption of global best practices in the library sector.

Role of Raja Rammohun Roy Library Foundation (RRRLF): Established in May 1972 by the Department of Culture, RRRLF is the nodal agency for promoting public library services in India. It is an autonomous organization that works in cooperation with the central and state governments. Its main roles are:

• Financial and Technical Assistance: RRRLF provides financial assistance to public libraries at the state, district, and rural levels through various Matching and Non-Matching Schemes . This assistance is given for purchasing books, furniture, equipment, constructing and extending buildings, and for mobile library services.
• Book Assistance: It procures good quality books through central selection and distributes them to libraries in different states, thereby enriching their collections.
• Research and Publications: The foundation promotes research in the field of library science and publishes surveys, reports, and other professional literature.
• Promotion and Awareness: RRRLF promotes the library movement by organizing seminars, workshops, and conferences, and conducts training programs for library professionals.
• Advisory Role: It advises the central and state governments on matters related to the development of the public library system. It encourages states to enact library legislation.

Conclusion: The Department of Culture acts as a policy-maker and overall supervisor, while the RRRLF works at the grassroots level as an implementing and funding agency. Together, they provide a synergetic framework for strengthening, modernizing, and expanding the public library system in India.

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Q2. Write an essay on IFLA public libraries guidelines.

Ans. The IFLA/UNESCO Public Library Guidelines: An Essay

The International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), in partnership with UNESCO, issues global guidelines for the development and operation of public libraries. These guidelines serve as a standard and a source of best practices for libraries worldwide, aiming to ensure that they effectively meet the information, education, and cultural needs of their communities. The latest version, titled “The Public Library Service: IFLA/UNESCO Guidelines for Development,” was published in 2001 and has been continuously updated since.

Mission and Purpose of the Guidelines: According to IFLA, the mission of the public library is to be the “local gateway to knowledge.” It provides a basic condition for lifelong learning, independent decision-making, and cultural development of the individual and social groups. The main purpose of these guidelines is to assist library professionals and policy-makers in establishing and maintaining high-quality public library services.

Key Guidelines: The IFLA guidelines cover various aspects of public library service:

1. Role and Mission: The library should develop a clear mission statement to meet the specific needs of its local community. It should focus on the four key areas of information, literacy, education, and culture.
2. Legislation and Funding: The guidelines stress that the public library service should be based on national and local legislation . Its funding should primarily come from public funds (national and local government) and it should be free of charge for all.
3. Human Resources: The library must have a sufficient number of qualified and trained staff. Opportunities for continuous professional development and training should be provided for the staff. This includes both professional librarians and support staff.
4. Collection Development: The library’s collection must be tailored to the needs of the community. It should include both traditional formats (books, periodicals) and modern formats (e-books, audio-visual materials, online databases). The collection development policy should be clear and in writing.
5. Services and Access:
   • The library should be accessible to everyone, including persons with disabilities, linguistic minorities, and other disadvantaged groups.
   • Services should include book lending, reference services, community information services, programs for children and young people, and information literacy training.
   • Free access to the internet and computers should be provided to ensure digital inclusion .
6. Library Building and Equipment: The library building should be located in an attractive, functional, and accessible place. It should have suitable spaces for reading, studying, and community activities. Modern IT equipment is essential.
7. Management and Marketing: The management of the library should be based on professional principles. An active marketing and promotion strategy is necessary to promote services and attract new users. Developing partnerships with the community is crucial.

Conclusion: The IFLA/UNESCO guidelines provide a comprehensive and ideal framework for public libraries. They are not just rules, but a philosophy that establishes the public library as an essential pillar of democracy, education, and culture. These guidelines help libraries to face the challenges and opportunities of the digital age and to remain relevant and valuable to their communities.

Q3. Discuss the planning of public libraries in new environment.

Ans. The new environment, largely defined by digital technology, globalization, and changing social expectations , has created new challenges and opportunities for public libraries. Planning public libraries in this new environment demands a strategic and forward-thinking approach to ensure they remain relevant and effective.

Key aspects of planning public libraries in the new environment are as follows:

1. Digital Transformation and Technology Integration:

• Digital Collections: Planning must prioritize the acquisition of e-books, e-journals, audiobooks, and multimedia databases. The library needs to develop a robust digital library platform.
• Infrastructure: Providing high-speed internet connectivity, Wi-Fi, an adequate number of computers, scanners, and printers is an essential part of planning.
• Digital Literacy: Libraries should plan to organize digital literacy programs for citizens, teaching them how to use the internet, evaluate online information, and use digital tools.

2. Redefined Role as a Community Hub:

• Reimagining Space: The library should be planned as a vibrant community hub rather than just a repository of books. This should include spaces for collaborative work (Co-working spaces), meeting rooms, exhibition areas, and ‘Makerspaces’, where people can create and learn new things.
• Community Engagement: It is crucial to involve community members in the planning process. Their needs and expectations should be understood through surveys, focus groups, and community meetings.

3. Focus on Lifelong Learning and Skill Development:

• Informal Education: Libraries should plan to become centers for lifelong learning by hosting workshops, seminars, and online courses (like MOOCs) for all age groups.
• Skill Development: Plans should be made to provide resume-writing workshops, interview skills training, and career counseling services to help job seekers.

4. Building Partnerships and Collaboration:

• Libraries should not work in isolation. They must plan to develop strategic partnerships with schools, local businesses, non-governmental organizations, and government agencies.
• This partnership can help in sharing resources, organizing joint programs, and reaching a wider audience.

5. Marketing and Outreach:

• Planning an active marketing strategy is essential to create awareness about the library’s changing role and new services.
• The library should be promoted using social media, email newsletters, local media, and community events. Outreach programs should reach out to those who do not traditionally use the library.

6. Data-Driven Decisions:

• Planning should be based on data rather than assumptions. By analyzing library usage statistics, user feedback, and community demographics, informed decisions should be made to improve services and collections.

Conclusion: Planning public libraries in the new environment is not just about managing physical resources, but about creating a dynamic, responsive, and community-centric service. By embracing technology, redefining their role as a community hub, and building strategic partnerships, public libraries can continue to be vital pillars of knowledge, culture, and community in the 21st century.

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Q3. Explain the organisational structure of public library system recommended by Model Public Library Bill.

Ans. The ‘Model Public Library Bill’, first presented by Dr. S.R. Ranganathan in 1930 and subsequently revised over time, provides a blueprint for states in India to establish a comprehensive public library system. The organizational structure recommended by this bill is based on a hierarchical yet integrated system, aimed at ensuring the reach of library services to every citizen of the state.

The organizational structure recommended by the Model Bill primarily consists of the following three-tier authorities:

1. State Library Authority (SLA): This is the supreme policy-making and advisory body for the public library system in the state.

• Composition: Its chairman is typically the State Minister for Education. Its members include the Education Secretary, Finance Secretary, Director of Public Libraries (as Secretary), representatives of the State Library Association, Vice-Chancellors of universities, and experts in library science.
• Functions and Powers:
  • To advise the government on all matters related to the promotion and organization of public library services in the state.
  • To determine the standards and policies for the functioning of the library system in the state.
  • To establish coordination among the various District Library Authorities.
  • To approve the state’s library budget and monitor its utilization.
  • To frame rules for the recruitment and service conditions of library staff.

2. Department of Public Libraries: This is the executive body of the library system at the state level, responsible for implementing the policies laid down by the State Library Authority.

• Composition: It is headed by the Director of Public Libraries , who should be a professionally qualified person. Under the Director, there are Deputy Directors, Assistant Directors, and other staff.
• Functions and Powers:
  • To act as the Secretary of the State Library Authority.
  • To superintend, direct, and control the public library system throughout the state.
  • To inspect libraries and provide guidance for improving their functioning.
  • To ensure the collection of library cess and the distribution of funds.
  • To organize training programs for library professionals.
  • To prepare the state’s annual library report and present it to the Authority.

3. District Library Authority (DLA): This is the body responsible for the management and administration of library services at the district level.

• Composition: Its chairman is usually the District Collector or the head of the local government. Its members include the District Education Officer, representatives of local bodies, heads of schools and colleges, and local library enthusiasts. The District Librarian acts as its Secretary.
• Functions and Powers:
  • To establish and maintain a district library plan to provide an effective library service within the district.
  • To manage the District Central Library, branch libraries, village libraries, and mobile library units.
  • To advise local bodies to levy and collect library cess in its jurisdiction.
  • To procure books and other reading materials according to local needs.
  • To organize activities to promote the library movement in the district.

This three-tier structure ensures that there is a clear linkage between policy-making, implementation, and local administration, leading to the creation of an efficient and accountable public library system.

Q4. Describe the system of financing public libraries in India.

Ans. The system of financing public libraries in India is a complex and varied one, as ‘libraries’ is a ‘State’ subject under the Indian Constitution. This means the primary responsibility for funding lies with the state governments. Consequently, the pattern of funding varies from one state to another, depending mainly on whether the state has library legislation or not.

The major sources of finance for public libraries in India are as follows:

1. Library Cess: This is one of the most stable and significant sources of finance for public libraries, but it is available only in states where library legislation is in force.

• Nature: Library cess is usually levied as a surcharge on property tax or land revenue. For example, in Tamil Nadu, a cess of 10% is levied on property tax.
• Collection: This cess is collected by local bodies (municipalities, panchayats) and then transferred to the District Library Authority.
• Importance: The cess ensures a dedicated and regular income, which helps libraries to plan their annual budget. However, delays in collection and transfer are a common problem.

2. State Government Grants: All states, whether they have library legislation or not, provide grants to public libraries from their annual budget.

• Matching Grant: In states with legislation, the state government often provides a matching grant equal to the amount collected through library cess. This encourages local bodies to collect the cess efficiently.
• Regular Grants: State governments also provide regular grants to cover staff salaries, maintenance, and other recurring expenditures.
• Plan Grants: Special plan grants are provided for developmental activities such as the construction of new library buildings, extension of existing ones, or modernization.

3. Central Government Assistance: The central government provides financial assistance to public libraries mainly through the Raja Rammohun Roy Library Foundation (RRRLF).

• RRRLF’s Schemes: RRRLF provides financial assistance under matching and non-matching schemes.
  • Matching Schemes: These include assistance for the purchase of books, equipment, furniture, and for building construction, where the cost is shared between RRRLF and the state government/library.
  • Non-Matching Schemes: These include assistance for organizing seminars, workshops, and for the distribution of centrally selected books.

4. Other Sources:

• Donations and Endowments: Many libraries receive donations from philanthropic individuals, corporate houses, and community organizations. Some libraries also have endowment funds from which they receive interest income.
• Membership Fees and Fines: Although membership is free in most public libraries, some may charge a nominal fee. Fines imposed for the late return of books are also a small source of income.
• Income from Services: Some income is also generated from services like photocopying, printing, and renting out meeting rooms.

Conclusion: The financial system of public libraries in India is dependent on multiple sources. States with a library cess are financially more stable. However, challenges like inadequate funding, inefficiency in cess collection, and inequitable distribution of funds persist. A strong and sustainable financial model is essential for the continued relevance and growth of public libraries.

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Q4. Make a comparative study of library legislation in India.

Ans. Library Legislation in India is a legal framework that ensures the establishment, maintenance, and development of public libraries in a state. Since ‘libraries’ is a state subject, each state is free to enact its own act. Since the first act was passed by the then Madras (now Tamil Nadu) state in 1948, 19 states have passed library acts so far. A comparative study of these acts reveals similarities and differences in their structure, finance, and administration.

A comparative study on the following key parameters is presented below:

1. Organizational Structure:

• Similarity: Most acts provide for a three-tier or four-tier structure similar to Dr. Ranganathan’s Model Bill:
  • State Level: State Library Authority/Council (advisory body) and Directorate of Libraries (executive body).
  • District Level: District Library Authority.
  • Local Level: City/Taluk/Village Library Committees.
• Difference:
  • Head of the Authority: In some states like Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh , the chairman of the State Library Authority is the Minister of Education. In contrast, in Karnataka , this post is non-political and an expert is nominated.
  • Status of Directorate: Some states (e.g., Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh) have a separate ‘Directorate of Public Libraries’, while in others (e.g., Haryana, Goa), it is a part of the Directorate of Education or Directorate of Art and Culture, which can diminish its autonomy.

2. Financial Provisions (Library Cess): This is the most crucial aspect where major differences are seen in the acts.

• Provision of Cess: Most southern states like Tamil Nadu (10% on property tax), Andhra Pradesh (8% on property and house tax), and Karnataka (6% on land and building tax) have a clear provision for library cess. This provides a stable financial base.
• Absence of Cess: In contrast, the acts of states like West Bengal , Manipur , and Goa have no provision for cess. These libraries are entirely dependent on state government budget grants, which are often inadequate and uncertain.
• Matching Grant: Most states with cess also provide for a matching grant from the state government equal to the cess collection, which further strengthens the financial position.

3. Staff Structure:

• State Cadre: In states like Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh , library staff are considered state government employees and have a separate cadre. This gives them better service conditions, pay scales, and transfer policies.
• Local Cadre: In other states, employees are appointed by the District Library Authority and do not get the same status or benefits as government employees, which leads to low staff morale.

4. Comparative Table:

Conclusion: The comparative study shows that the public library system is more robust and effective in states whose acts provide for a dedicated library cess, an autonomous directorate, and a state-level staff cadre. Models like that of West Bengal, which depend entirely on government grants, often face financial constraints. Future legislations should learn from the successful models of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu to build a sustainable and efficient public library network.

Q5. Write short notes on any three of the following (in about 300 words each) : (a) Job description (b) Community information services (c) Reading room services (d) Marketing of public library services (e) NAPLIS

Ans. (a) Job Description A job description is a formal, written document that clearly defines the duties, responsibilities, required qualifications, and reporting relationships of a specific position within an organization. It is a fundamental tool of human resource management, providing the basis for recruitment, training, performance appraisal, and organizational planning. In the context of public libraries, a clear job description is crucial for ensuring efficient operations and effective service delivery.

A typical job description includes the following components:

• Job Title: E.g., ‘Librarian’, ‘Assistant Librarian’, or ‘Library Assistant’.
• Job Summary: A brief overview of the overall purpose and role of the position.
• Duties and Responsibilities: This is the most detailed section, listing all the main activities associated with the post. For a librarian, for example, this could include collection development, cataloguing, providing reference services, and organizing community programs.
• Required Qualifications: The minimum educational qualifications (e.g., MLIS degree), experience, skills (e.g., ICT skills, communication skills), and personal attributes required for the position.
• Reporting Relationship: This clarifies who the position holder will report to (e.g., the Assistant Librarian will report to the District Librarian).
• Working Conditions: Mentions working hours, physical environment, and any special requirements.

In a public library, a well-crafted job description ensures that the right person with the right skills is hired, that employees have a clear understanding of their roles and expectations, and that their performance can be evaluated fairly. It also helps in preventing duplication of roles and ensuring a smooth workflow.

(b) Community Information Services (CIS)

Community Information Services (CIS) are a vital and proactive service provided by public libraries, aimed at providing members of the local community with practical information related to their daily lives. This service is based on the premise that citizens have a right to know about their rights, opportunities, and available resources in order to make informed decisions and cope with life’s problems.

The information covered by CIS is diverse and can include:

• Health and Welfare: Information on local doctors, hospitals, clinics, health schemes, and support groups.
• Employment and Education: Information on job vacancies, career counseling, skill development courses, local colleges, and schools.
• Housing and Transport: Houses for rent, housing schemes, local bus and train timetables.
• Government and Legal Aid: Information on government schemes, welfare benefits, free legal aid centers, and citizen rights.
• Community and Recreational Activities: Information on local clubs, events, festivals, parks, and cultural programs.

To provide this service, the library uses various methods. It may create a directory of local organizations, maintain a collection of information files and brochures, maintain a community notice board, and create a dedicated section on its website. Library staff play a crucial role by directly answering users’ queries or by referring them to the right agency or expert (known as a referral service). In the digital age, CIS is often provided through online databases, mobile apps, and social media. This service transforms the library from just a center for books into an essential community resource.

(c) Reading Room Services

Reading room service is one of the most basic and traditional services of a public library. It provides a designated space where users can read, study, and research in a peaceful and conducive environment. This service is especially important for those who do not have a quiet space or access to resources at home, such as students, researchers, and job aspirants.

The main features of reading room services are as follows:

• Space for Study: The reading room has comfortable seating, adequate lighting, and a quiet atmosphere, which is essential for concentration.
• Access to Reference Collection: The reading room usually houses reference books (like encyclopedias, dictionaries, directories) that are not allowed to be taken home. Users can use these valuable resources on-site.
• Newspapers and Periodicals: This service provides access to various local, national, and international newspapers and magazines. It helps users stay updated with current events and the latest information on various topics. This is a major attraction for the library, especially for senior citizens and students.
• Special Collections: Some reading rooms may also have special collections such as local history collections, maps, or government publications.
• Modern Facilities: Modern reading rooms often have Wi-Fi facility, charging points for laptops, and computer terminals, enabling access to digital resources.

The reading room service supports the educational and informational mission of the library. It promotes self-education and lifelong learning. For students, it is a critical space for exam preparation. For the general public, it is a means to stay connected with the world and acquire knowledge. In short, the reading room is the heart of the library, bringing together knowledge and community.

(d) Marketing of Public Library Services

Marketing of public library services is a management process aimed at identifying the information needs of the community, designing appropriate services and products to meet those needs, and then informing and persuading the community about the value and availability of these services. It is much more than just promotion or advertising; it is a strategic approach that is user-centered.

The concept of marketing can be understood through the traditional “4 Ps,” which can be applied to public libraries:

• Product: These are the services and resources offered by the library. This includes books, e-books, databases, internet access, story time for children, digital literacy classes, and community programs. The product must be tailored to the community’s needs.
• Price: For public libraries, most services are “free,” but there is a ‘price’ for users – their time and effort. The aim of marketing is to show that the benefit gained from using library services far exceeds this ‘price’.
• Place: This indicates where and how services are available. This includes the physical library building (which should be accessible and attractive), mobile library vans, and the library’s website or mobile app (which is available 24/7).
• Promotion: This is the most visible part of marketing. It includes all activities that the library undertakes to raise awareness about its services. Strategies include:
  • Active presence on social media (Facebook, Twitter).
  • Publicity through newspapers, radio, and local TV.
  • Creating posters, brochures, and newsletters.
  • Outreach programs in schools and community centers.
  • Organizing special events like book fairs, author talks, and workshops.

Effective marketing increases library usage, attracts new users, builds a positive image of the library in the community, and demonstrates its value to policy-makers and funders. It ensures that the library remains a relevant and cherished community asset.

(e) NAPLIS

The full form of NAPLIS is the

National Policy on Library and Information System

. It was a significant attempt to create a comprehensive national policy for the development of library and information services in India. Its aim was to formulate a framework to ensure optimal utilization of library resources across the country, provide equitable access to information, and establish an integrated national library network.

Background and Objectives of NAPLIS: In 1985, the Department of Culture, Government of India, constituted a committee under the chairmanship of Prof. D.P. Chattopadhyaya, known as the ‘Committee on NAPLIS’ (CONPOLIS). The committee was tasked with drafting a national library and information policy for the country. The committee submitted its report in 1986, which made several important recommendations.

Key Recommendations of NAPLIS:

• Development of Public Library System: The policy recommended the establishment of a robust public library system in all states and union territories, based on library legislation and including a network to reach rural areas.
• Resource Sharing and Networking: It emphasized the establishment of a national library network (like INFLIBNET and DELNET) to facilitate resource sharing among libraries across the country.
• Manpower Development: The policy underlined the need for programs for the training, education, and continuous development of library professionals.
• Modernization and Use of Technology: It recommended the adoption of computers and other modern technologies to improve library services.
• Institutions of National Importance: It suggested placing the National Library of India at the apex of the national library system and strengthening the role of other national institutions (like INSDOC, NASSDOC).
• Funding: The policy called for commitment at both central and state levels to ensure adequate and sustained funding for libraries.

Although NAPLIS was never fully adopted as a formal policy document by the Parliament, its recommendations have had a profound impact on the development of the library and information sector in India. The establishment of INFLIBNET, the emphasis on library automation, and the adoption of library legislation by several states are all outcomes of the spirit and recommendations of NAPLIS. It remains an important guiding document for library development in India even today.