Library Herald Year : 2003, Volume : 41, Issue : 3 First page : ( 145) Last page : ( 157) Print ISSN : 0024-2292. Online ISSN : 0976-2469. Some Impressions of Libraries in Kuwait, USA and Canada
Kumar Krishan, Former Head and Professor Department of Library and Information Science, University of Delhi (Address for Correspondence: K-14, Rajouri Garden, New Delhi-110 027, E-mail: krishan14@hotmail.com)
Abstract Mentions the emergence of digital age and globalization, and its impact on libraries. Briefly, describes libraries in USA, Canada and Kuwait. Discusses innovations employed in teaching-learning process. Describes the role of friends of the library and volunteers. Mentions about resources of some of the leading libraries. Discusses digitation going on as a major activity. Describes free access to Internet and accessibility of resources. Discusses extension activities, special services, services to people with disabilities, user education, staffing, and security system. Describes issues concerning budget cuts, digital amnesia, censorship, dress code and filtering software. Raises the question ‘do we need libraries’? Describes the efforts being made to improve the image. Concludes the libraries in Western Countries have a rich and long tradition of support from philanthropists and friends of the library.