Next Generation Libraries in the Networked Digital Environment

In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, libraries are undergoing a transformative shift, emerging as dynamic hubs of knowledge, innovation, and community engagement. Next Generation Libraries in the Networked Digital Environment offers a comprehensive exploration of the transformative role libraries play in our digital age. This insightful volume brings together esteemed authors which include library professionals, educators, and researchers who delve into innovative practices, sustainable strategies, and the integration of cutting-edge technologies that are reshaping library services.

This volume explores a wide array of topics essential for modern librarianship, including the integration of information and communication technologies (ICT), circular economy principles in library management, the principles of sustainable library management, access to information by artificial intelligence, and the role of social media in enhancing library services. Each chapter delves into practical strategies and best practices that address contemporary challenges while embracing future possibilities.

From understanding the impact of digital resources to fostering green initiatives, this book offers valuable perspectives on the evolving role of libraries in promoting inclusivity, accessibility, and sustainability. It serves as a comprehensive reference for the Library and Information Science (LIS) community, illuminating the prospects and challenges of digital transformation in libraries and information centres.

Whether you are a librarian, educator, researcher, teacher, student, or simply a lover of knowledge, this insightful compilation will equip you with the knowledge and tools to navigate the future of library services in a networked digital environment. Therefore, please join us on this enlightening journey as we navigate the future of libraries where innovation meets tradition, and where knowledge knows no bounds.

Dr. Bhanu Partap is presently working as Assistant Librarian in Nehru Library, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar (HR), India since July 2013. Before joining the current position, he has served many institutions situated in Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand and Chandigarh between September 2005 to July 2013. He has received MLISc. and M.A. (Mass Comm.) from Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra and received M.Phil. (LIS) from Alagappa University, Karaikudi (Tamilnadu), India. He has passed the exam of UGC-NET in June 2010 and also received the degree of Ph.D. in Library & Information Science from Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra. Apart from this, he has also received PGDCA, PGDJMC, and CC Yoga from Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra. He has about 19 years of professional experience in the field of librarianship. He has contributed around 120 articles in the National and International journals, conference proceedings and edited books, and has also authored/edited 13 books. Apart from this, he has coordinated many national workshops and training programs for students, faculty and library professionals. He is a life member of Haryana Library Association (HLA), Indian Library Association (ILA) and Association of Agricultural Librarians and Documentalists of India (AALDI). Dr. Bhanu Partap has also awarded by Indian Library Association with P.V. Verghese Award- 2022 for the best paper entitled “Awareness and Use of CeRA Consortium among the Students of Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, Cooch Behar (W.B.), India: A Case Study” published in the Journal of Indian Library Association, Vol. 58(4), October-December, 2022.

Dr. Renu Bala is presently working as a Librarian at PIET Sanskriti Senior Secondary School, NFL Township, Panipat, Haryana. She holds M. Lib. & Inf. Sc., PGDCA and Ph.D (LIS). She has an extensive professional exposure of more than 22 years of library services and serving at various esteemed organizations. She has published a good number of research papers in journals, conference proceedings and edited books. She has attended around 70 workshops in different capacities and has 21 presentations in various professional activities.