AWARENESS AND UNDERSTANDING OF LIBRARY STANDARDS AMONG LIS STUDENTS

PAPER ID:IJIM/Vol. 10 (VIII)December /11-18/3

AUTHOR: Niraj Kumar[I]  Dr. Pawan Kumar Saini[II]

TITLE : AWARENESS AND UNDERSTANDING OF LIBRARY STANDARDS AMONG LIS STUDENTS

ABSTRACT:Library standards play a vital role in ensuring quality, consistency, interoperability, and efficiency in library and information services. Library and Information Science (LIS) students must possess adequate awareness and understanding of national and international standards to meet evolving professional demands. This study examines the level of awareness, exposure, and perceptions of LIS students regarding library standards and bodies that set standards. A quantitative survey method was employed using a structured questionnaire distributed online to LIS students from different Indian universities, including central, state, and open universities. A total of 52 valid responses were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis for open-ended responses. The results showed that most LIS students understand the significance of library standards for professional practice, interoperability, and high-quality service delivery. Although students are well-versed in popular bibliographic and metadata standards like Dublin Core, ISO 2709/Z39.50, ISBD, and MARC 21, their knowledge of national standards (BIS) and conceptual or architectural standards is still lacking. There were few chances for internships, workshops, or practical training, while classroom lectures were found to be the main form of exposure. In order to improve standards awareness, students strongly preferred experiential learning approaches. They also cited several major obstacles, including insufficient training opportunities, poor syllabus covering, lack of practical exposure, and limited faculty knowledge. The study draws the conclusion that while LIS students have a favourable attitude towards library standards, their practical comprehension is inconsistent and mostly theoretical. To promote standards literacy and better prepare LIS students for modern library practice, it is crucial to extend hands-on training, strengthen curricular integration, and improve professional development activities.

KEYWORDS : Library Standards, Quality, Awareness, LIS Education.

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