International Journal of Science, Engineering and TechnologyDigital Transformation in Indian Libraries: Adoption and Challenges
Authors- Assistant Professor Rakesh Kumar
Abstract- The digital transformation of Indian libraries has accelerated in recent years, driven by technological advancements, increased internet penetration, and policy initiatives aimed at modernizing information services. This study explores the adoption of digital technologies in Indian libraries, analyzing a dataset of 200 libraries across various types (Public, Academic, Research, and Corporate) and geographical locations (Urban, Semi-Urban, and Rural). The research examines key factors influencing digital adoption, including access to digital resources, automation software usage, internet availability, funding sources, and challenges such as infrastructure limitations, budget constraints, and digital literacy gaps. Findings indicate that while urban academic and corporate libraries exhibit higher levels of digital adoption, rural and public libraries continue to face significant barriers due to inadequate funding and lack of skilled personnel. Statistical analysis reveals correlations between funding sources and the extent of digital integration, highlighting the crucial role of government and institutional support. The study concludes by providing policy recommendations to bridge the digital divide, enhance digital literacy, and foster a more inclusive digital ecosystem in Indian libraries. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse on digital transformation in developing economies, offering insights for policymakers, library administrators, and researchers in information sciencea.
