Information Literacy Initiatives in Libraries of Select Indian Institutions of National Importance: An Exclusive Viewpoint of Librarians

Abstract

This study aims to understand how library professionals are planned, delivered, and promoted by exploring real-life practices rather than relying on a theoretical framework with the help of the Big6 model of IL. The research employed a survey method using a Google Form questionnaire, adopting a descriptive research design using a quantitative survey method, with 38 library professionals participating. The findings indicate that library orientation sessions are one of the most impactful methods for providing services in selected libraries for delivering information literacy to users. Libraries face challenges in implementing or organizing information literacy due to a lack of active participation, limited staff expertise, resistance to change, or adoption of new methods. Researchers have proposed that faculty should be instrumental in motivating and mobilizing students to undertake information literacy programs that their libraries offer. The study reveals that no credit score system in institutions is awarded for participating in IL programs offered by their libraries. It is imperative that this model of add-on (2/3) credit scores in the academic curriculum may prove to be an important component in the academic learning outcomes of the students. The study suggests and concludes that there is an urgent need to work systematically on the policies and standards that offer guidelines and strategies for revamping information literacy by integrating the information literacy concept into the curriculum of HEI’s academic program for all categories of students (Undergraduate, Post Graduate, Professional Courses like B.Tech, M.Tech, M.BA, etc.) as a mandatory course.