Understanding the online presence of voluntary libraries of mumbai and thane district: A case study
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Date
2014
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Abstract
Voluntary libraries (VLs) that influenced the existence of formal libraries are functioning
across the world since time immemorial. The VLs, which aim to spread book culture, are
established and run by individuals or social groups. The formal libraries that are popularly
known as ‘public libraries’ are supported by government bodies. But VLs are,voluntary
initiatives, working behind the screen where there is no access to public libraries or even
where the public library system is well in place. But the literature review of the study
revealed that there is hardly any literature directly discussing the status and contributions
of VLs. Therefore,any study on the VLs, which fall into unorganized or voluntary sector,
would boost thepopularity of these libraries and also the volunteers/voluntary groups
associated with them. In an attempt to identify their popularity(online), this paper explores
the online presence of VLs particularly of Mumbai and Thane district. The motive to find
this phenomenon is indirectly associated with functioning of the VLs,their preparedness in
embracing technology, technology supported library services etc. The study found that the
VLs need to do a lot to project their presence online as only six VLs have their official
websites out of 26 VLs, in Mumbai and Thane district, surveyed for the study. The trend is
quite challenging and also positiveassome libraries are operating online with an
exceptional approach towards their patrons.
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Keywords
Online Presence, Voluntary Library, Volunteerism, Mumbai, Thane