Special libraries in India: some current trends

Abstract

Purpose

Poor infrastructure facilities, outdated mindsets and lack of exposure among professionals to the latest developments have been bottlenecks against progress in Indian libraries for a long time. Today, with the advent of both information and communication technologies and global competition, the scenario for special libraries in India is changing fast. This paper aims to outline the emerging trends and developments taking place in special libraries in India: it aims to provide an overview of how special libraries in India function, particularly as a younger generation of library professionals is now actively becoming involved in developing new skills and competencies in order to become more customer‐sensitive and customer‐centered.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a general review and survey of current development areas in special librarianship.

Findings

In most Indian special libraries, features such as Internet resources and other electronic/digital resources, subject gateways and networks and consortia, are fast gaining acceptance. New trends include the development of libraries’ own web sites, the sophisticated application of digital technology, more professional marketing of information products and services, outsourcing, flexi‐workforce, knowledge management and participative management, which are becoming the order of the day.

Originality/value

The paper clearly presents the changes coming in special libraries in India.

Citation

Singh, S.P. (2006), "Special libraries in India: some current trends", Library Review, Vol. 55 No. 8, pp. 520-530. https://doi.org/10.1108/00242530610689365