AVAILABILITY AND UTILIZATION OF ICT FACILITIES AND SERVICES IN UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES OF TRIPURA

Abstract

This study examines the availability and utilization of ICT facilities and services in university libraries of Tripura. A descriptive survey method was adopted, and primary data were collected from 1050 respondents, including faculty members and research scholars, using a structured questionnaire. The sampling technique used was convenient sampling. The findings reveal that a majority of respondents are research scholars who frequently visit the library and utilize ICT facilities such as computers, internet, and digital services for academic and research purposes. Services like Current Awareness Service (CAS) and e-resources are widely used. However, the study also identifies several challenges, including frequent malfunctions in digital databases, slow internet connectivity, and inadequate digital resources, which hinder effective utilization. The study concludes that while ICT has significantly improved library services and user access to information, there is a need to strengthen infrastructure, provide user training, and ensure regular maintenance of ICT facilities to enhance their effective use in university libraries.