The Role of Information Technology in Arts and Science College Libraries

Abstract

The integration of Information Technology (IT) has significantly enhanced the operational efficiency and user experience of Arts and Science college libraries. This study analyzes the implementation of various IT tools such as cloud computing, digital catalogs, and Integrated Library Management Systems (ILMS) across ten institutions affiliated with Alagappa University. With a response rate of 80.5% from 200 distributed questionnaires, findings indicate that 100% of respondents use mobile phones, internet, and WhatsApp for library interactions. Additionally, over 90% of institutions employ digital resources like e-journals and
e-consortiums. The study contributes to existing literature by providing empirical data on IT usage in regional academic libraries and highlighting practical challenges, such as infrastructure limitations and training needs. These insights offer a comparative perspective on digital adoption trends and emphasize the need for strategic investment to fully realize the benefits of IT in academic settings.