An Analytical Insight into the Content, Services and Resources of the Indian Statistical Institutes’ Library Websites

Abstract

The present study aims to analyze the informational content and navigational tools related to general user information, library collections, the availability of library services and facilities, details of e-resources, and other Web 2.0 features available on the websites of the Indian Statistical Institutes (ISI) libraries. ISI libraries house important and specialized collections related to statistical sciences and mathematics. A standard checklist to quantitatively record the data through the direct observation method is developed subsequent to a thorough review of the literature. By utilising arithmetic and statistical tools, a comparative assessment of the libraries is done based on the analysis of the recorded data. The study reveals that three ISI libraries have dedicated websites or webpages that users can access directly through their respective web addresses. These libraries readily provide information about their special collections on their websites, while also providing information about their e-books and e-journals. The libraries are also highlighting notable services on their websites such as access to online resources, circulation services, current awareness services, OPAC services, digital library services, documentation services, and bibliographic services etc. E-open access resources, e-databases, and Web-OPAC facilities are also provided by all the libraries, along with various other digital services. Comparatively, it is revealed that the Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata Library (ISIK), ranks first, followed by the Delhi Centre Library (ISID) and the Bangalore Centre Library (ISIB) based on the study. This research is expected to assist library professionals in improving their websites so that users’ needs are met effectively and efficiently.