5th ICLIM - 2023

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://repository.kln.ac.lk/handle/123456789/27200

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 78

Academic Library Outreach: Relevance of Information Literacy in e-environment for Physical Fitness Trainers in Kurunegala District
(Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Thusithakumari, W.M.; Weerasinghe, M.K.
The study evaluates the impact of Wayamba University's Outreach Program on physical fitness and information literacy for Kurunegala District Physical Fitness Trainers. The program, addressing the underserved target group, emphasises the importance of information literacy in an online environment for trainers. Survey results from 103 participants reveal positive perceptions, with 79.5% female and 20.5% male respondents. Notably, 83.65% of volunteers found the program significantly beneficial. Participants expressed challenges in accessing reliable information, indicating a need for guidance in information search strategies. The study concludes that academic libraries play a vital role in community development by enhancing educational attainment and fostering information literacy. It emphasises the necessity of information literacy to maximise traditional and electronic resources, thereby improving access to electronic information sources and breaking down barriers. The findings underscore the crucial role of information literacy in a digital era for societal well-being.
Addressing Educational Disparities: Analysis of Library Resources and Services in Urban, Semi-Urban, and Rural Schools in the Kandy District
(Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Gunasekera, C.
This study investigates the disparities in library resources and services among urban, semi-urban, and rural school libraries in the Kandy district. The findings reveal significant gender disparities among school librarians and diverse roles within the profession. Analysis of available information resources indicates variations across locations, with notable discrepancies in the availability of audio-visual materials. Similarly, disparities in library services and facilities are identified, impacting study spaces, reading materials, and technology access. The study emphasizes the need for targeted efforts to address these discrepancies and ensure equal educational opportunities. Recommendations include promoting awareness of diverse library services and resources and implementing improvements for enhanced effectiveness. The study contributes valuable insights to inform decisionmaking processes aimed at fostering equity in the educational system, regardless of school location.
The Affect of Online Reading to Improve the Effectiveness of University Student’s Learning Process, With Special Reference to University of Kelaniya
(Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Jayathilaka, H.D.M.S.
Information and communication technology has developed, rapidly with the advancement of information and communication technology, people in the modern society tend towards online media instead of print media. The development of this information and communication technology has also brought about a great change in the field of study. Accordingly, the university students in sri lanka are getting information through online access instead of physically using the library. But with the development of information and communication technology, due to the proliferation of online sources, online reading should be done more carefully. Through this study, the main objective was to study the effect of online reading to develop the effectiveness of the learning process of university students and to make necessary suggestions to develop the effectiveness of online reading of university students. For this study, the third-year students of the faculty of social sciences of the University of Kelaniya were used for the sample and thirty students were randomly selected from each field of study and the necessary primary data was collected through online questionnaires, interviews and via telephone lines. For Secondary data were used books, journals, theses and e – resources. The collected data is analyzed by quantitative data analysis method. Although online reading can contribute to a high level of learning process for university students, it was found through the analysis of research data that the effective use of online reading for students’ academic activities is at a moderate level. There are several reasons for this. This is due to insufficient understanding of information literacy and information search among students, problems with language and facing various difficulties in reading online. Accordingly, as suggestions of this research, it is possible to educate students about choosing the right online reading source, develop language skills, provide students with practical knowledge about the use of electronic resources through the university library, and implement motivational programs to increase online productivity.
Assessing the Perceived Quality of Government Training Institutions’ Libraries from User Perspectives
(Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Balasooriya, B.A. Priyani
Service quality measures how well a product or service meets a customer's expectations. A study was conducted on the quality of services maintained by a library of a certain government service training institution in Sri Lanka. Providing a high-quality service is critical to attracting and retaining library users, as this will improve library productivity and enhance the library's reputation.
Awareness of Academic Integrity among the Undergraduates: A Case Study based on the Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
(Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Rathnabahu, R.M.N.
Academic Integrity is considered a vital parameter to protect from academic dishonesty. Currently, undergraduates use these concepts in their studies and research. However, it was still looking for the survey related to the awareness of academic integrity among the Department of Library and Information Science (DLIS) undergraduates. Therefore, this case study focused on identifying an awareness of Academic Integrity among BA honours degree undergraduates of the DLIS, University of Kelaniya. The main objective was to examine the awareness of the academic integrity of the DLIS undergraduates under the main concepts of plagiarism, making false claims, paraphrasing, limitations on getting and giving help, and summarising. Under the non-probability sampling method, a convenient sample was used to select BA honours degree 106 undergraduates from the DLIS. An online questionnaire was distributed to the undergraduates as a tool for data collection. According to the findings, 80.4% of undergraduates knew the concept during the lectures, while 7.5% had the idea through self-studies. The rest of the 12.1% of percentages represented that they were aware of the concept when searching the internet, from friends, reading journal articles and through the final year research supervisor. Most undergraduates had a good understanding of plagiarism, making false claims, paraphrasing, and limitations on getting than the giving help than summarizing. All undergraduates would like to learn these concepts via the curriculum, and they proposed teaching the concept in detail in the syllabus. The study proposed establishing a compulsory course module for all undergraduates to complete before their final year.
The awareness of disaster management among the library staff of university libraries: A case study based on the staff of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura Library in Sri Lanka
(Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Kumara, H.U.C.S.
A disaster is an unpredicted incident that puts every resource in any institution, including libraries, at risk. At present the library is fully automated and provides printed resources, e-resources, etc. to fulfill the information needs of users. The objective of the study is to explore the awareness of disaster management among the library staff. The study used the descriptive survey research method. The sample size was 62, and the population was the University of Sri Jayewardenepura library staff. Sixty-two copies of the questionnaire were disseminated, and 56 (90.32%) of the completed copies were received. The study analyzed all 56 responses. The interviews were semistructured and conducted using the purposive sample technique. Out of the 56 respondents, only 6 were selected for the interview based on the purposive sampling method. The study concludes that the library staff members are very aware of the disasters 49 (87.50%) and damage 40 (71.43%) that occurred due to the disasters in the library. The library staff members lack awareness of disaster management in the library 38 (67.86%). It is further revealed that the library staff members do not know how to use library disaster management equipment in disaster situations. The study recommended that the library organize awareness programs on disaster management for the library staff. The study also suggested that the library staff should be trained on how to use library disaster management equipment and emergency response through the appropriate disaster management courses.
A bibliographic study of the knowledge tradition contained in the palm leaf manuscripts: In reference to the districts of Anuradhapura, Kandy, and Kurunegala
(Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Piyarathana Thero, L.
The main objective of the research is to conduct a bibliographic study on palm-leaf manuscripts in Sri Lanka aiming to disclose the knowledge traditions based on these bibliographic conventions in palm leaf manuscripts. The sample was selected based on the historical periods covering three districts. As a limitation of the study, it was identified of covering only three districts where palm leaf manuscripts are dominant in Sri Lanka Total of 575-palm leaf manuscripts from six temples was selected as a sample. First, Kahatagasdigiliya Gonagiri Rajamaha Viharaya in the Anuradhapura district which has a long history back to the reign of King Pathis II and Ruwangiriya Rajamaha Viharaya in Anuradhapura district, Secondly Ginipenda Vardhanaramaya and Medadepola Rajamaha Viharaya in Kurunegala district and the Arattana Rajamaha Viharaya and the Attaragama Temple in Kandy District were selected and all those temples were holding historical and culturally significant collections in Sri Lanka. Identifying the subject areas contained in the collections under the study, exploring the bibliographic nature and characteristics of those pamphlets as bibliographic standards followed, how the art of writing done on palm-leaf manuscripts, and their preservation and conservation were examined as knowledge tradition imbued on palm leaf manuscripts were the objectives. The other objective was to compile a descriptive bibliography for achieving some aims like emphasizing of developing a national level bibliographic standard, revealing the contents of palm leafs, and showing the validity of a bibliography. It was revealed that adequate and properly furnished bibliographic information is not available which hinders readers to access it. The other issue is that there is no properly accepted and approved bibliographic standard for the collection, organization, and dissemination of this valuable manuscript literature. The other obstacle faced by these palm leaf depositories is the lack of use of preservation and conservation methods. The study focused on the origin and the evolution of the art of palm leaf writing including historical methods of preservation and conservation as found to be a knowledge tradition that should be sustained for re-use. Classification of palm leaf manuscripts is a dire need and thus the users will be able to easily access the information, when and where they need them. Based on this principle, a descriptive bibliography was compiled under this study as a requirement to stress the need and identification of developing a national bibliographical standard in the Sri Lankan context as well as revealing the significance of compilation and study of bibliographies on palm leaf manuscript literature. The conclusion of the study was that there had been knowledge tradition, which is embedded with the historical bibliographic conventions, practiced in palm leaf literature in the country. It was able to identify the characteristics and features relevant to these conventions like notation, art of writing styles, illustrations, conservation and restoration techniques and practices and generally found the gradual decadence of palm leaf manuscripts. A National Level Planhs been identified for developing a bibliographic standard for conservation and the preservation for palm leaf manuscript in Sri Lanka.
Bibliometric Analysis of ‘Bibliotherapy’ in the Digital Environment: Based on JSTOR Scholarly Publications
(Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Attanayake, Geethani; Weerasooriya, W.A.
Bibliometric analysis makes a significant contribution to directing researchers to more effective studies even before they start reading. It also allows them to quickly discover research gaps in the field, inspire new ideas for research, reveal research trends and map the research field for conceptual, social, or cognitive purposes. Accordingly, the main objective of this article is to provide an analysis of publications on bibliotherapy in JSTOR from 2010 to 2020. The bibliometric analysis method was used as the research method for this study. Data were collected using a standardized search approach through JSTOR using the keyword "bibliotherapy". A total of 906 books, book chapters and journal articles on bibliotherapy have been published across the world during the relevant period. The retrieved data set was analyzed with the text-mining facility of JSTOR. The findings of the study will be important for researchers to conduct more effective studies of bibliotherapy and library professionals to support their clients.
A case study on eliminating poverty through Public Library Services in Sri Lanka: A Special Reference to the Colombo Public Library
(Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Sewwandi, R.H.S.D.
The absence of a typical or socially acceptable level of wealth or material possessions is referred to as poverty. According to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), number one calls for eradicating all poverty by 2030. Thus, as in other sectors, Information and knowledge are essential for development, as mentioned by Singh in 2012. Therefore, libraries and information centers are crucial in this greater context. This study aimed to conduct an in-depth, detailed examination of an analysis of the contribution of public libraries to poverty alleviation, a sustainable development objective. The main objectives were to find the types of public library services provided by the Colombo Public Library to upgrade their lives, to find out how it effectively affects the users, and to find out the problems they are facing providing the services by the library. For this, the Colombo Public Library was purposively selected. The case study method was selected as a research method, and data was collected through face-to-face interviews with library staff and users. Qualitative data was analyzed accordingly. According to the findings, several services were provided by the Colombo Public Library to improve their physical and mental sustainability. These services' final aim was to support eliminating their poverty. Accordingly, the Colombo Public Library provides mobile library services, public lectures, book supply services for prisoners, self–employment training programs, gardening encouragement programs, health camps, counselling, and vocational training guides. Further, providing land in public libraries for the market, plumbing training, and informing about job opportunities directly contribute to poverty eradication.Moreover, readers to access the computer labs they need to become part of the information society, encouraging the enrollment of out-of-school children in classes, providing prison guards with career training, and giving the self-employed the option to pay in low-interest instalments through commercial banks and the setting up of loan arrangements and other ideas can be mentioned. Colombo Public Library faced some issues when implementing the services to end poverty and promote personal development. The primary issues were a lack of funding, skilled staff shortage, space, computer resources, etc. Further, library users were greatly satisfied with the Colombo Public Library's services, which helped them upgrade their lives to eliminate poverty. Colombo Public Library is also happy to maintain the existing support services for its users.
A comparative study on Television Media Libraries and their collection.
(Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Ranahansi, L.A.N.V.
In the electronic media of Sri Lankan mass communication, television occupies a special place. “It is necessary to create an existing library for a concerned institution. To achieve these objectives, a library is maintained in a building or a small room owned by the institution.” (Thompson, 1943, P. 80). This is a study on television media libraries and their collections. Libraries are also created in association with electronic mass media institutions with the purpose of depositing and preserving them. The programmes that were aired at the beginning of television will end after the end of their broadcast time. Due to this, the opportunity of re-broadcasting certain programmes was not available. Re-production of the programmes required a lot of money, time, effort, and resources, so the programmes were broadcast and recorded. Rebroadcasting of broadcast programmes also enables the production of other programmes. The libraries built by storing the tapes and discs created by the recording of programmes can be called media institute libraries or electronic media institute affiliated libraries. As the task assigned to these media libraries, it can be pointed out that programmes are deposited for broadcast, programmes are released for broadcast, and programmes are deposited after broadcast, recording, and reproduction of recorded programmes. (Electronic media institutions affiliated libraries in Sri Lanka; collection; services; User study,2000, P.2) This study is aimed at determining the organisation and collection of television media libraries. Two television media libraries were selected as samples from the public and private sectors in the television media library. To collect primary data, a detailed questionnaire was distributed among a random sample selected from the relevant categories of media personnel within the selected two broadcasting organizations. The data analysis shows that the library collections of both media institutes are made up of different types of audio and visual discs. The respondents indicated that they primarily resort to media resources. Establishing proper categorization systems for all media libraries, As a suggestion to construct the collection, a consortium to exchange human and other resources, developing an all-encompassing collection rather than audio or video materials, is offered.
A Comparative Study on Weeding Out University Library Collections in Sri Lanka: special reference to Peradeniya, Kelaniya and Ruhunu University Libraries
(Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Dharmasena, G.K.P.M.
A university library is a formal corporation run to fulfill the university's objectives in a wide range. It should help to maintain educational sustainability in the parent organization. Therefore, it is essential to maintain an updated collection to maintain a sustainable library collection. The library weeding process plays a pivotal role in this regard. Thus, this study's objectives were to identify the weeding process of the university library collections, the problems and challenges associated with the weeding process occurring at the library, and to give possible solutions to overcome the difficulties and challenges. University Grant Commission-governed university libraries were selected as the study population, while three university libraries, namely, Peradeniya, Kelaniya and Ruhunu University Libraries, were purposely selected for the study. Questionnaires were used as a primary data collection method, and three questionnaires were administered to the respective librarians. Data analysis was conducted accordingly. According to the findings, a special methodology is followed by weeding out the university library materials. This research identified criteria, such as physical condition, relevance, historical value, reading levels, and material transcription, for consideration when selecting materials for the library weeding process. The specialized parties have taken final decisions, namely, the library committee and the Senate. Further, time consumed, lack of specialized staff, belief in the future need for books, unwillingness to reject sources of information, incapability to establish criteria for the purposeful misuse of library materials, non-cooperation from academic departments, and indifferent attitudes from higher authorities were identified as problems and challenges raised the weeding process. Audit objections and an inability to discriminate against unused material have also been identified as other challenges. Therefore, carrying out the weeding of library materials according to specific policies and methods, recruiting a trained staff to the library, getting the advice of experts in the field of library and information science for the weeding policies, and creating positive attitudes in the library staff are recommended through this study.
A Cross-Cultural Exploration of 'Magicae' in Imperial Rome and 'Hooniyam' in Ancient Sri Lanka
(Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Jayawardena, S.G.
This comparative research delves into the intricate world of dark art practices by examining the phenomena of 'Magicae' in Imperial Rome and 'Hooniyam' in Ancient Sri Lanka. Through a meticulous crosscultural analysis, this study unveils the fascinating parallels and disparities between these distinct manifestations of occultism. Contextualized within the historical, cultural, and societal backdrops of Imperial Rome and Ancient Sri Lanka, the study explores the nuanced rituals, spells, and beliefs associated with 'Magicae' and 'Hooniyam'. By scrutinizing historical documentation, folklore, oral traditions, as well as literary and archaeological evidence, the research illuminates the integral role these practices played in shaping the spiritual and social landscapes of their respective civilizations. The research unearths the profound influence of cultural beliefs, religious outlooks, and societal norms on the development and reception of these dark art practices. By juxtaposing the cultural frameworks that birthed 'Magicae' and 'Hooniyam', the study uncovers the multifaceted nature of human spirituality and the diverse avenues through which individuals sought to navigate the mysterious forces surrounding them. Through an examination of modern interpretations, differing viewpoints, and scholarly debates, the research underscores the enduring relevance of these practices in contemporary discourse. Furthermore, the study contemplates how the remnants of 'Magicae' and 'Hooniyam' practices have permeated modern belief systems and worldviews, reinforcing their enduring significance. In essence, this research transcends the confines of time and geography to weave a comprehensive tapestry of the human propensity for exploring the arcane. By meticulously comparing 'Magicae' in Imperial Rome and 'Hooniyam' in Ancient Sri Lanka, this study not only enriches our understanding of these ancient civilizations but also provides a profound insight into the profound intricacies of the human quest for the mystical and enigmatic.
Design and Development of Digital Repository of Biodiversity for Bharathidasan University
(Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Jaya Suriya, Dheva R.S.; Gayathri, S.; Srinivasaragavan, S.
Organizing the information resources into different studies in physical form as well as in a digital form in a library is very much necessary to bring posterity of the knowledge which is available in the public domain. It is very relevant to carry out the collection and organization of specific resources which belong to a particular region and also exhibit the same to make aware of the importance of the resources pertinent to the particular region. It may be of social, it may be of cultural, it may be of historical, or it may be of lingual. In that context, heritage documentation is very relevant. The processes used to make sure that digital materials remain accessible are referred to as "digital preservation." All the procedures designed to maintain the availability of digital biodiversity resources for as long as they are required can be grouped under the umbrella term of digital preservation.
Development of the libraries in the British period of Sri Lanka: a historical study
(Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Manatunga, M.K.
This research delves into the historical development of libraries in British Colonial Sri Lanka (1796-1948), emphasizing qualitative analysis of secondary data from sources such as Ferguson's Directory, Ceylon Almanac, and Ceylon Blue Book. The study identifies reasons behind the systematic library system's emergence, explores their locations, delves into oriental libraries, and examines prominent British-era libraries. Initially catering to British civil servants, libraries expanded to encompass diverse communities, including planters and missionaries. Notable libraries, such as Colombo Museum Library and Jaffna Public Library, emerged, laying foundations for the present Sri Lankan library system. The research concludes that the British period spurred the transformation from traditional pirivenas to a systematic library network, fostering educational and cultural evolution. Presently, these libraries continue to thrive, offering automated services, diverse collections, and widespread accessibility, showcasing the lasting impact of British-era developments on Sri Lanka's library system.
Disaster Mitigation in Libraries: A study based on the National Museum Library of Sri Lanka
(Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Amarasooriya, Y.W.N.D.; Wijerathne, M.G.H.K.
Libraries must play a vital role in society. As a developing country Sri Lanka is facing the challenges of the protection of Library collection, life of readers and staff as well as property. Because disaster management has become an essential part of the library. The main objective of this study is to identify the physical resources and human resources which are vulnerable for disasters of the museum Library of Sri Lanka and disaster management activities and to present a suitable disaster management action for the library. Other objectives are to investigate why the management of the institute was not interested in developing a disaster management plan, investigate why the management of the institute was not interested in developing a disaster management plan, to identify the mitigation problems of frequently-use collections in museum library of Sri Lanka and Highlight the importance of disaster management plan. The museum Library of Sri Lanka is used as the sample. Relevant data was collected from the respondents using several methods which included observation, face to face interviews and document reviews. The collected data was analyzed, interpreted, and presented using qualitative methods. The findings revealed that as the largest library collection in Sri Lanka, had taken several simple actions to protect their collection. But we can’t be satisfied about that. Because they are facing some problems. Such as there is no written policy on disaster mitigation in the library, lack of adequate facilities, inadequate fund allocation to libraries and lack of interest on the part of some disaster management issues. It was recommended that disaster mitigation facilities and funds to avert disaster should be provided for the government, to have mitigation and disaster management policy and ensure they are adhering to and provide guidelines to the use and management of libraries.
Disaster Preparedness: the use of social media for academic information during the COVID-19 pandemic by new entrants of the Faculty of Dental Sciences at the University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
(Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Dharmarathne, W.G.A.
The shift to online education due to the COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on educational institutions worldwide, including those in developing countries. In response, many educators and institutions turned to social media sites and other digital tools to continue delivering education and sustaining the learning process. The present study attempts to examine the way of using social media by the new entrants to the Faculty of Dental Sciences of the University of Peradeniya, specifically for the information requirements relating to their academic programs during the COVID-19 Pandemic. The study was undertaken at the Library of the Faculty of Dental Sciences during the orientation program conducted for the new entrants. Even though 117 students registered in the academic year 2022/2023, only 112 students participated in the survey. An online questionnaire was used as the main datagathering tool. Findings indicated that WhatsApp, Facebook, and Research Gate were the widely used social media platforms by Dental Science undergraduates during the COVID-19 Pandemic specifically for academic purposes. Sixty-five percent of them (65%) used social media for searching Scientific and academic information related to their subject matters. The major positive impact perceived by the students was that social media helps them to maintain better relationships with their friends; however, at the same time, they believe social media behavior is quite a time-consuming matter. While social media has the potential for educational purposes, the findings indicate that a significant number of students (35%) are not aware of its importance and potential for educational activities. The majority of responded seem to pripritize the use of social media for entertainment rather than for accessing seem to prioritize the use of social media for entertainment rather than for accessing educational content or features available on these platforms. Based on these findings, it may be beneficial for educational institutions and policymakers in Sri Lanka to explore ways to promote the educational potential of social media platforms among students.
Effectiveness of Documentation Services in Libraries in Sri Lanka: With Reference to the National Library and Documentation Services Board of Sri Lanka
(Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Dissanayake, M.T.
Documentation services play a crucial role in meeting the information needs of individuals in a technology-driven society. However, despite significant investments in documentation services, readers often encounter challenges in accessing proper and effective assistance. This research aims to address the problem of the effectiveness of documentation services by examining their current status, identifying the types of documentation services available, pinpointing the underlying issues, and assessing the integration of information communication technology techniques within these services. This study utilized a mixed research method, employing questionnaires, interviews, and secondary sources for data collection. Data was gathered from officers at the Sri Lanka National Library through interviews and questionnaire surveys. The study focused on comparing the documentation services offered by the National Library of Sri Lanka. Purposive sampling was used, and the research sample comprised the Sri Lanka National Bibliography and Index to Postgraduate Theses. For quantitative data analysis, Excel software was utilized. The study findings revealed that among the documentation services compiled by the National Library of Sri Lanka, 75% were found to be operational in the National Library. However, 25% of these services were not currently operational despite being initiated earlier. Additionally, it was observed that the National Bibliography of Sri Lanka and the Sri Lanka PostDissertation Series were not published in print within the designated timeframe, lacked information on all publications, and faced challenges in keeping them up to date. As a solution, the study proposed the implementation of a user-friendly online search system for the National Bibliography of Sri Lanka, compiled by the National Library of Sri Lanka, along with the automation of documentation services using information communication technology.
Empowering Education in Challenging Times: Unveiling the Virtual Reading Room Initiative at General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University Library Through Open Access Resources
(Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Seneviratne, W.; Rajapaksha, M.P.; Kanchana, U.D.H.; Ranawella, T.C.
This study explores the successful implementation of Virtual Reading Rooms (VRRs) at Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) Library as a solution to financial constraints in higher education. It focuses on the adoption of Open Access Resources (OAR) to enhance information access. The paper discusses how digital transformation addresses changing user preferences, especially through open science initiatives. The compilation of virtual reading rooms (VRRs)of the KDU are presented as solutions to financial constraints faced by Sri Lankan higher education due pandemic situation. The objectives of the study are to present designing of the VRR and its implementation. The study employs a case study design to explore into KDU Library's experiences in establishing VRRs. The discussion outlines parameters considered, the implementation process, challenges (content selection, technical expertise, OA content longevity), and recommendations for future VRR expansion. In conclusion, this study underscores VRRs' importance in overcoming financial constraints and accommodating diverse information needs. It highlights Open Access as a means to promote knowledge dissemination. The challenges and recommendations provide insights for future library services and information access.
An exploratory study, how the user orientation conducted by the University Libraries in Sri Lanka, during COVID Pandemic period.
(Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Kumararathna, S.K.N.S.
Library user orientation is a planned programme of giving library instructions either on lecture or a demonstration, program of instructions or a face to face or computer based method or demonstration of library physical arrangement, resources and services conceivably with library functional aspects in a rudimentary manner, specially targeting student categories exposing library services for promoting good library relations and publicity through the process in order to become effective library users. It is a splendid opportunity to "sell" the library to the students, to promote the services making a very friendly atmosphere between library staff and those users nearer to resources and service. COVID 19 pandemic severely affected to the user orientation programmes conducted physically for the new entrants in University libraries in Sri Lanka. The four objectives of this paper were to identify how university libraries conducted their user orientation during this period, to explore the attitudes of Librarians towards conducting user orientation on online mode to examine the problems faced by the libraries in conducting user orientation in this COVID 19 period. This study utilized mixed methods. Sample comprised of four university libraries with their Librarians. Questionnaire was distributed Kelaniya, Wayamba, Ruhuna and Sabaragamuwa university libraries to collect data, which reflect their preference on physical a virtual user orientation programme. Study found that all four universities used online mode for their user orientation programmes, which means the validity of this process. Attitudes of four Librarians towards this online use for the user orientation were unsatisfactory which underscore that conducting user orientation in physical participation is more fruitful than online mode. The problems faced by the students are the signal and connectivity issues, meager knowledge of the usage of this online mode, the scarcity of computer facilities while the librarian faced problems like how physical demonstration session should be conducted on online mode, mediocre knowledge of the Learning Management System usage, time management issues related to online user education sessions including the shortage of computer facilities.
Explore and Usage of Artificial Intelligence Tools for the research scholars: A Special Reference at Bharathidasan University
(Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Balasubramani, R.; Muthhumari, P.; Vijayaluxmy, S.
In the contemporary academic landscape, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools has become increasingly prevalent, revolutionizing the research methodologies employed by scholars across diverse disciplines. This paper delves into the exploration and utilization of AI tools specifically tailored for research scholars at Bharathidasan University. The study begins by providing an overview of the current state of AI in academic research, highlighting its transformative potential and the paradigm shift it brings to traditional research approaches. Bharathidasan University, known for its commitment to academic excellence, serves as a specific reference point for investigating the incorporation of AI tools into scholarly pursuits. The paper then proceeds to examine various AI tools applicable to research endeavors, including natural language processing, machine learning algorithms, and data analytics. Special emphasis is placed on tools designed to enh0061nce literature reviews, automate data analysis, and streamline the research process. Case studies from Bharathidasan University illustrate practical applications, showcasing how these tools can be effectively employed in diverse research domains. Furthermore, the challenges and ethical considerations associated with the use of AI in research are critically examined. Addressing concerns such as bias in algorithms, data privacy, and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration, the paper proposes guidelines for responsible AI integration within the academic context. The impact of AI on fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange among scholars at Bharathidasan University is also discussed. The potential for AI to facilitate cross-disciplinary research and create synergies among various academic departments is explored, contributing to a more holistic and integrated research environment. The conclusion emphasizes the transformative potential of AI tools for research scholars at Bharathidasan University and suggests avenues for future exploration. As AI continues to evolve, the integration of cutting-edge technologies into the research process is crucial for staying at the forefront of academic innovation.