Evaluation of ICT Infrastructure and Its Satisfaction in University Libraries

Abstract

The integration Information and Communication Technology has become a vital element in turning academic libraries into effective service-oriented knowledge centers. This study evaluates the availability, utilisation and satisfaction level of digital infrastructure and offered services in the libraries of five professional universities in Bihar, India. The study employed a descriptive survey design. Data were collected from librarians and users through structured questionnaires and direct observation. A total of 102 responses were obtained from the users. 97 valid responses were analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square and Cramer’s V analysis. The findings reveal a heterogenous ICT landscape with all the libraries implementing core systems like Koha or SOUL, OPAC and INFLIBNET membership. Advanced tools like RFID, institutional-repositories and cloud based platforms were available in few Universities. Highest user satisfaction for e-books and OPAC, but lower for remote-access and orientation services. Librarians reported highest satisfaction with LMS use, but cited lack of staffing and funding as the major challenges. Notably, 60 % of libraries lacked formal user-satisfaction assessment. Despite these limitations, most libraries planned ICT advancements, including AI-enabled tools and software upgrades. Yet, ICT impact remains uneven, highlighting the need for stronger staff capacity, ICT policies and user feedback to improve library services and digital education.