Preservation of Library Materials in Select University Libraries of Haryana: A Study

Abstract

Modern libraries offer diverse collections in both print and digital formats, each of these formatsrequiring appropriate physicalconditions for usewhich is broadly known aspreservation activity. It is a vital activity to save cultural heritage and valuable resources for future generations well known as legacy. The study investigated the preservation activities in select university libraries in Haryana. A well-structured questionnaire was designed and distributed to these libraries. The results reveal that the condition of library interiors like walls, ceilings, floors, windows and ventilation, was at least good in all libraries. There was no written policy for preservation in any library. All the libraries used DDC to organize the library materials and OPAC for information retrieval. Dust particles, temperature, humidity, and insects were the main causes of deterioration in print materials, while technical obsolescence and viruses created problems in non-print materials. Most of the libraries mainly used digitization, cleaning, and stain removal techniques to protect the print materials. Theyconfronted a variety of problems, such as, shortage of trained staff, a national or state level policy for preservation, and users’ unawareness.