“Transforming libraries into learning resource centers: Innovative solutions for academic libraries” was the theme of the workshop organized by VJIM, Hyderabad on 6th November. Aimed to equip traditional libraries to keep up with the latest digital disruptions, the workshop was an information-sharing platform for publishing houses, new age library systems, Library and Information Science professionals, graduates and researchers from all over the country.
Mr. Raghu Mantha, Librarian, VJIM, Hyderabad welcomed the guests and set the tone for the discussions with a talk on traditional library vs modern library. He highlighted the importance of automation and the internet for new age libraries. Dr. Ch. S. Durga Prasad, Director of the B School then spoke of the huge value of books in one’s personal and professional growth. “Learning should always continue,” were his words that resonated with the audience.
It set the stage for the guest speaker, Dr. K. Rama Patnayak, IIM-B to share her insights with the participants. She described libraries as centers that provide education equipment and material, before taking the audience through their different forms across centuries. During her presentation on principles of learning and key features of Learning Resource centers, she remarked on today’s scenario by saying, “Learning is more interactive, analytical and functional in nature”.
Dr. Ravi Basaiah, Librarian, University of Hyderabad, pointed out the impact of LRC on institutional rankings. He explained four different types of rankings and spoke of how libraries help improve the quality of education. Dr. P. Raghavaiah, Librarian, VNR, Hyderabad advocated the use of digital resources like pro-quest, EMERALD e-databases and CMIE for quality learning in technical Institutions.
What is the impact of IoT on learning resource centers? Mr. Angirasa Acharya, Digital Knowledge Management expert shed light on the topic and suggested ways to effectively implement the latest technologies. Product presentation by Mr. Vinay Kumar on Emerald Database and Balani Infotech also covered ground-breaking solutions like Remote XS, Start-up INFO, Elgar Online, IGI global, and more.
Mr. Srinivas, Mr. Vijay Reddy, Solution sales manager (South Asia) Scopus, Elsevier India, Dr. A. S. Chakravarthy, Assistant Professor, Osmania University, Hyderabad, Mr. A. Ramesh, Assistant Professor, VJIM, Dr. Kishore Ch. Satpathy, Chief Librarian, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata, and Mr. Naresh Varma, Co-Founder, Brand Synergi were other esteemed speakers at the workshop. They spoke on wide-ranging topics, from identifying plagiarism to innovative Library spaces and services, making it a day of comprehensive exchange of ideas for the future of libraries.