PREFACE

The present study entitled "Library Networks and Network based Information Services in India" attempts to identify the development of Library Networks in India and various information services based on these networks.

In modern days, managing the information has become quite complex due to a number of factors. The publication of a large number of documents in every field of science and arts has created information explosion. The traditional methods of collecting, organizing and retrieving information can not manage the situation. So manual methods in libraries need to be changed and computerization of every activity has become a must. At the same time, even after automation of library activities, it is almost impossible for any library and information center to hold all the documents published in every field of subjects. So the concept of library networking came through which optimum utilization of resources by several members of the network could be a reality.

The study is divided into eight chapters. Chapter 1 deals with the introductory part and includes role of co-operation and resource sharing, areas of library automation and impact of IT in libraries.

In Chapter 2 attempt has been made to clear the concept of library networking and various terms and terminology associated with a network have been explained. Chapter 3 deals with status of various networks and efforts made by Government of India and other agencies of the Government with regard to networking of various libraries and information centers. In Chapter 4, major library networks in India, viz. DELNET, INFLIBNET, CALIBNET and MALIBNET have been described in details. Chapter 5 gives an overview of major library networks scenario world over. Chapter 6 includes various possibilities of information services through library networking in the country. Chapter 7 mainly gives an account of problems and implications of library networking. The last chapter contains discussion and conclusions. At the end, bibliographic references have been given.