UNIT 11 PUBLIC LIBRARY NORMS, STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES Structure 11.0 Objectives 11.1 Introduction 11.2 Definitions
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UNIT 11 PUBLIC LIBRARY NORMS, STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES Structure 11.0
Objectives
11.1
Introduction
11.2
Definitions 11.2.1
Public Library Norms
11.2.2
Public Library Standards
11.2.3
Public Library Guidelines
11.2.4
Public Library Manifesto
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11.3
Public Library Standards/Norms 11.3.1 . 11.3.2
11.4
Indian Public Library Standards International
Public Library Standards
Public Library Guidelines 11.4.1
Indian Public Library Guidelines
11.4.2
International
Public Library Guidelines
11.5
Summary
11.6
Answers to Self Check Exercises
11.7
Key Words
11.8
References and Further Reading
11.0
OBJECTIVES
After reading this Unit, you will be able to: •
distinguish between Public Library Norms, Standards and Guidelines.;
•
display good knowledge, including quantitative aspects to some extent, of Public Library Norms/Standards in India and those propagated by IFLA as the international Standards/ Norms; and
•
discuss Public Library Guidelines issued for use in India as well as Guidelines published at the international level, by IFLA.
11.1
INTRODUCTION
Library is a growing organisation. Any growing organisation will have set goals to be achieved, which is attained through appropriate planning. The case of public library is no exception. In the process of pla-,.•.ning, goals are set first, and then guidelines are given to indicate how the goals are to be acliieved. Finally, norms/standards are applied! formulated to evaluate the services in relation to its set goals or objectives. Nonnslstandards are to be followed every time a new library is built or an existing one extended or recognised. In any phase of its growth, it is necessary to continually evaluate the services in relation to its accepted roles and functions, to see what is being achieved and how this could be done better, and to justify continued demands for ever-increasing demand offunds. For, planning and evaluation purposes, norms/standards are essential. Every librarian has sources from which she/he draws his/her knowledge when she/he has to plan a library or torun it or to evaluate it. But, this is not enough. It may happen that the existing knowledge may not be sufficient or up-to-date. A formal guidance from an authoritative 39
Management of Public Library System
source, government or profession may sometimes appear essential for authenticity and consequently for support from the funding agency. Norms/standards and guidelines have been formulated by various library agencies/ organizations/governments, international agencies in appreciation ofthese crucial factors as planning and evaluation oflibraries, for adding authenticity to these processes and for eliciting appropriate support for them.
11.2
DEFINITIONS
Before going into the details of norms, standards and guidelines, let us define them. For making the comprehension of these terms easier, we shall add one more term, viz .. Manifesto. They are treated in the order of norms, standards, guidelines and manifesto, starting from the specific and ending with the general for norms/standards are based on guidelines. and guidelines in turn emanate from manifesto.
11.2.1 Public Library Norms Norm is a standard; a pattern; model; a type (representative of a group when judging other examples). Norm is a standard derived or based on past performance. Standards and norms denote the same. Hence, public library standards and public library norms are deemed to be the same in meaning and function. Norms are used, like standards, to measure performance.
11.2.2 Public Library Standards Standards are authoritative principles or rules that usually imply a model or pattern for guidance, by comparison, with which the quantity, excellence, correctness, etc., of other things may be determined. Library standards may be defined as the criteria by which services may be measuredand assessed. They are determined by professional librarians in order to attain and maintain the objectives they have set themselves. Standards may be interpreted variously as the pattern of an ideal, a model procedure, a measure for appraisal, a stimulus for future development and as an instrument to assist decision and action. Standards bring uniformity and order. Standards are necessary for the establishment of new libraries and the improvement of existing ones. They are required as a guide to the level of financial, material, and human support necessary to ensure that libraries will be able to ful:fill their responsibilities to the. users. Library standards are essential for the planning and evaluation oflibrary services. . The library standards provide the norms both in qualitative terms and quantitative terms to be followed to implement the guidelines and thereby attain the goals. The standards are used to measure and assess the achievements, remove the hurdles' and to plan for the future. The library standards are considered as the minimum and not as the maximum standards. However, no standards are valid for ever. They are revised frequently in appreciation of changes in sodal conditions, educational trends? and technological development affecting libraries.
11.2.3 Public Library Guidelines Guidelines are guides or indications of future course of action. Guidelines tell you' what items in the goals and objectives of public library are to be achieved and how. In other words, they guide you towards the goals as delineated in the plans or blue- print for development.. For example, based upon the Unesco Manifesto, IQ94, ( a public declaration of objectives of public libraries) on Meeting the Needs of the Users, the IFL~ Guidelines 2000 has discussed in detail how best to fulfill this. According to the Guidelines, it is done through identification of potential users, analysis of needs within the 'community, offering services to the users, customer care, user education, resource sharing, etc. Guidelines, thus; guide you to the achievement of the principles or objectives. But guidelines arenot helpful to assess whether these principles are attained. this is where standards/norms come into play.
11.2.4 Public Library Manifesto
40.
The dictionary meaning of manifesto is a public declaration of intentions, opinions, objectives, or motives, as one issued by the government, or an.organisation. The public library manifesto is a statement of the fundamental principles of public library.
The Unesco Public Library Manifesto. 1994, preparedpnder the auspices ofIFLA is the latest in the field of public library. It has been an important statement of principles but there was need and demand for a more detailed statement of practical. guidelines and standards which librarians and policy makers could use in developing public library services. Subsequently, the public library guidelines and standards were suitably revised. So, one can say that the guidelines immediately, and subsequently the standards are based/founded on the manifesto. This can be best illustrated by the fact that every chapter of the IFLA Guidelines, 2000, starts by quoting the relevantstatement from the 1994 Unesco Manifesto.(vide Appendix for Unesco Public Library Manifesto, 1994, in short version).
Puhlic Stnllllnrds
Lihrury \"I"IIIS. 'lIId (;lIidl'lint'S
Self Check Exercise 1)
What are standards? What are the functions and features of public library standards?
2)
Distinguish between manifesto, guidelines and standards.
Note:
i)
Write
JOUI' answers
in the space given below.
ii)
Checkyour answers with the answers given in the end of the Unit.
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11.3
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PUBLIC LIBRARY STANDARDS
The processes and methods used in developing standards for the. evaluation of library' are . many. These may be.i) determining which libraries were generally thought to be good ones and then using those to be the comparison against which others were measured.ii) using experts by appointing a committee of the leaders in the field to come together ,to determine what elements would be included in the statement of standards. and what particular statistics would be the ones against which other libraries would be measured, and iii) hiring an expert as a consultant. (Ill India. the method of gathering library experts together to develop consensus on the content of the standards has been utilised): Authority, consensus, and custom, thus, sanctify standards. . . There are two kinds of standards. quantitative and qualitative. Standards relating to quantity represent precise measurement (and are simple to apply) like size oflibrary collection, budgets, and staff. Qualitative standards relate to the intrinsic nature of entities (directly not measurable) like leadership, skill, intelligence and honesty applied by library professionals in the service: It may not be easy to reach agreement on quantitative standards as standards prepared in one situation may have little or no validity outside it. For the same reason, it is argued, there can be no criteria that can be used in international level. Standards of course can vary in degree. They may be either standards of adequacy or standards of excellence. Standards of adequacy in one country may wellbe standards of excellence in another. Standards written in one country. however, have often influenced the form and content of . standards produced in others. On the other hand: standards prepared by IFLA, influenced by existing national standards, have encouraged other countries to prepare similar standards. That library standards need constant revision because of rapid changes in condit ions affecting. them is apparent from the number of documents of recent origin and from the fact that many earlier statements are under reviewat some point of time or other. . In retrospect: The first attempt to formulate standards for public libraries was made in 1"933by the American Library Association (ALA). It has been revised many a time subsequently to meet the needs of'fhe changing times. America, in fact, has always provided leadership and. has been in the forefront in the updating of the public library standards. Similar development .'
41
Management of Public Library System
has taken place in Britainwhere the first comprehensive standards on public library were published in 1962. The Library Association, London, has always been involved in this field and published various standards. Mention may be made of Model statement of standards in public library services (1995), Basic stock for the public reference library (1998), and Guidelines for reference and irformation services in public libraries (1999). The Government released the draft for the latest revision of public library standards in May 2000. Britain has decided to revise the public library standards on yearly basis. Standards have since been adopted in several countries of the world. It is well supported by the fact that the survey of ,library standards conducted by Withers in 1974 covered 20 countries. The international organizations, like Unesco and IFl.~A,have played a significant role in formulation of public library guidelines and standards. '
11.3.1 Indian Public Library Standards In India, reports starting from the Advisory Committee by K. P. Sinha (1958) to the latest National Policy on Library and Information System (NAPLlS, 1986), have stipulated various norms/standards.goals and guidelines for public libraries. However, the comprehensive document on this topic has been the one published by the Raja Rammohun Roy Library Foundation (RRRLF) in 1991 entitled Guldelines for Public Library Systems ana Services. The RRRLF is a Government oflndia organisation engaged in the promotion of public library movement in India. These Guidelines are generally based on Unesco Public Library Manifesto and IFLA Standards for Public Libraries, but sonle novel features to suit Indian situations have been included. This document doesn't list the standards separately, but gives in appropriate places in the Guidelines. These are segregated below: 1t.3:1.1 Finance, To start with, the states spending less than 70 paise per capita (the national average) should try to reach a level of expenditure of Re. I per capita 'or alternatively, one per.cent of annual expenditure on education and culture during the 8th Plan (1992-'97) period and those who were already spending above Re: 1 per capita should try to reach a level of expenditure of Rs.2.50 per capita. The Guidelines have recommended levying ofa charge on the public library service. In order to make it worthwhile, the charge should be Rs. 10 perannum, but a concession of33 per cent (Rs.20) be allowed to a family consisting of three members, each given the right to borrow books in their individual capacity. 11.3.1.2 Library Personnel A general formula, rather than 'a specific recommendation, has been offered by the document. One post per 2,000 literate population should be provided for' Central Libraries at state/ divisional /district/city levels. In other public libraries, it should be one post for every 2,500 literate population. In case of Central Libraries, the proportion ofprofessionalstaffto toe total should be 40 per cent against 33 per cent in ~ther public libraries. ~It .3.1.3 B~ilding
a
Generally, gross area of2l ,520 sq.ft. is provided for a population of25,000, i.e., 0.86 sq. ft. per person, these-being the international standards. For all public libraries in towns and villages as well as the branches of City Central Libraries, this international standards will beapplied, However, in case ofa village, the minimum area ofa library building should be 1,000 sq. ft. in order to facilitate its functioning as a community centre and also to serve school children. if there is no separate school library. The Central Libraries have been divided into.two classes, viz., Class I and Class :\. Class I buildings meant for population of more than 20 lakh will have a gross area of 50,000 sq. ft. Others between population of20 lakh and 25,000 will have 'Class 11building of25,000 sq. ft. In, both thecases, the site should be large enough to allow expansion up.to 100 per cent. No building will have an area of more than one lakh sq. ft. The Guidelines have specifically listed which level Of libraries belong to which class of libraries.
42
11.3.1.4 Site
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Public Llhrury. Norms, Stllndard51lnd (~uiclelill"s
The library building should be located centrally in a high density area. It should be in close proximity with education institutions or the main commercial areas. Transportation facilities should also be given appropriate priority. The site should be levelled so that no steps should be required to enter the library. The frontage should have minimum sun exposure and should have protection from strong winds, especially in the coastal and desert areas. The foundation should be strong enough for future vertical expansion or alternatively the site should be large enough to facilitate' horizontal expansion. 11.3.1.5 Design
••
The' building should be modular In design, which should mean that distance between the, pillars should be uniform. The distance between the pillars should not be less than 21 ft. and, more than 30 ft. and be divisible by three. The building should be preferably rectangular in shape as bookracks and tables are also made in the same shape. No mezzanine floors are , recommended. No ceiling should be more than 16 ft. in heightin non-air-conditioned, and not less than nine feet six inches In case of air-conditioned buildings (to provide for ceiling fans). Each floor should be at one single level to facilitate movement of book trolleys. A book elevator (lift) should be provided. if the building has more than one floor. Internal staircases should be avoided in the middle ofthc floor. No basement should be provided unless sub-soil is very deep. The load bearing capacity of all floors should be 50 ~g. per sq. m. The sections should be so placed on different floors in such a fashion that the traffic is reduced to the minimum. Only florcscent lights with double 4 feet tubes (without plastic, , casing) shouldbeused. No separate study cubicles. but tables measuring 90x120 cm, should be provided. Book capacity should be worked out at the rate of 120 volumes per 11 sq. ft. of floor area. Each reader should have an area of 25 sq.. ft. Each administrative staff is to be allotted an area of 54 sq. ft. and 97 sq. It. for cataloguing staff. ' 11.3.1.6 Furniture
'
The reading table size for one person should be 75 x60 cm, for four 150 x90 cm. for 6 persons 240 x 120 cm. No partition should be provided onthe tabletops. Steel should be preferred to wooden racks. Ramington and Godrej designs are considered to be of international standards. Indian libraries are advised to follow the specifications laid down by the Bureau of Indian Standards for furniture, building, shelving' cabinets, lighting, binding, safety, etc. A few' samples are given below: ' , ,Indian Library Standards
I)
Specifications forwooden shelving} cabinets (adjustable type) }
,IS: 4116(reuffirmed-1998)
2)'
Specifications for steel.shelvingcabinets
IS: 3312(reaffirmed-1990)
3)
Design of library buildings-recommendations}
4)
.
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relating to its primary elements }
IS: 1553(revised-1989)
Specifications for library furniture}
Part I Timber IS: 1829(Part I) -1978 (reaffirmed-1991) Part ,I1 Steel IS: 1829(Purt I1) -1977(a/firmed-1998)
and fittings)
5)
Code of practice in library lighting
IS: 2672-1966(reaffirt;,ed-1990)
6)
Specification for mobile library van
IS: 2661-1975(reuffirmed-1999)
7)
Guide for preparation of abstracts·(1st rev.)
IS: 795-1976(reaffirmed-1992) ,
8)
Guide for data elements and record format for computer based databases for bibliographic description of different kinds of documents
IS: 1H70-1985(reaffirmed-1998)
43
Manalt'mellt of Public Library System
Self Check Exercise 3)
What are the standards stipulated for public library financing in India?
4)
Describe the design, standards for library buildings prescribed by the Guidelines for· Public Library Systems and Services?
Note:
i)
Write your answers in the space given below.
il)
Check your answers with the answers given at the end of the Unit.
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11.3.2 International Public Library Standards
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In 1973, IFLA (International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions) published Standardsfor Public Libraries. and re-issued in 1977 with slight modifications. In 1986. this was replaced by' Guidelines for Public Libraries. As their titles suggest, they represented
two different approaches to providing practical guidance to librarians, The 1973 version provided a range of quantitative standards including the size of collections, size of . administrative units, opening hours, staffing levels and building standards. These were , . declared as universally applicable (the IFLA Guidelines did not consider the need for diferrent standards for different countries, since the general objectives in all countries were the same, the modifying factor being the pace at which development could take place) .. The 1986 Guidelines took a still different view and did not include any quantitative recommendations; as they were not considered universally relevant. It argued that in the present state of library development, their needs and resources of libraries varied so widely that there could be no common standards for services. For instance, the IFLA stipulation that public library should provide free public access to the Internet/World Wide Web to all citizens. regardless their economic means (vide Electronic Network under-l .2.3) will not be relevant in the Asian or African context presently. The IFLA 2000 yersion (yet to be finally accepted on incorporation of some more instances of library practices in dilTerent parts of the world) has also followed the same logic and has not provided any standards or quantitative recommendations. In other words, since 1986 they have offered 110trules but advice, based on experience drawn from many different countries, which were considered be capable of. general application. Hence, it should be concluded that standards or quantitative recommendations are no longer in fashion as far as the international bodies are concerned.
of
to
Despite the fact that issuing of standards is not in practice today by international organisations like Unesco or IFLA, the IFLA Standards for Public Libraries 1973/1977 are still usedas an important document in this field A few important items are summarised below: These standards! norms are usually intended to be minimal. The learners should study the rules/advice given (on quantitative aspects) in the IFLA Guidelines, 2000, also along with thesestandards. IFLA Standards for Public Libraries 1973/1977: Selected Items Public Library System Preferred minimum population Minimum population normally regarded as Viable
1,50,(XX) 5O,(XX)
Admini~1rative Unit Minimum populations in any circumstances
44
3,1XX)
Service Points: Opening Hours
Public library Norms. Standards and G uideJines
Urban main libraries'
60 hours per week
Branch libraries
18-60 hours per week
Book Stocks •
Minimum working stock for all departments, excluding special collections, calculated in relation to literate population:
In smallest administrative unit, 3 volumes per inhabitant In general circumstance, 2 volumes per inhabitant ' (When children up to 14 years of age constitute 25-30% of the population, children's books should comprise one-third of the total stock.) •
Reference books (included above):
In smallest administrative unit
100 volumes
In general circumstances •
Up to 10% of total stock
Annual additions per /1,000 population:
In general circumstances
250 per annum
In small administrative units
300 per annum
Children's books in same proportion as in total stock --References books in libraries serving p~pulations over
(see above). 50,000 -10% of all additions.
Periodicals, including newspapers , . In administrative units of up to 5,000 population In administrative units of5,OOO-I,O~,OOOpopulation
50 , , 10 per 1,000 population
(These figures include multiple copies, periodicals in foreign languages, and periodicals for children) , Staff
• •
Total non-manual staff (professional,
clerical, administrative):
In smallest administrative 'unit, 1 full-time qualified librarian with clerical assistance In large administrative units with developed library services -- I per 2,000 population
hl very large administrative units -•
1 per2,500 population
Qualifieci librarians:
In a,developed, urban, compact unit .
33% of total staff
In a library system with many branches an small service points 40% of total staff (In a large library system, one third of professional librarians should be specialised in children's work). Building •
Distribution in urban areas:
,Abranch library within 1.5 km. of most residents. A relatively large library within 3-4 km. of most residents. •
Areas of departments, etc.:
Adult lending and reference facilities: see table below: 45.
Management or Public Library System
Adult Lending
Floor area-needed
Op~n shelfaccommodation Population Volumes Served per 1000 population
,
.
-
Adult
Facilities
Total shelf capacity required
at' l~m2 per 1000 volumes (minimum 100 m2)
Reference
Open- shelf accommodation Numbers Floor area of needed at volumes 10m2 per WOO vols.
Facilities
Seating area Number Floor area at 2.5 m~ of places at 1.5 per per place . 1000 pop"
3,000
1,333
4,000
100m2
100
1m2
5
I3m~
10,000
600
6,000
100m2
900
9m2
15
3Rm2
20,000
600
12,000
180m2
3,000
30m2
30
75m2
60,000
600
36,000
540m2
12,000
120m2
75
IRRm2
1,00,000
500
50,000
750m2
20,000
200 m2
150
375m2
*This level of provision can sometimes be reduced in li?raries serving populations larger than 1,00,000.
Note: The above figures include circulation space, stair counters, catalogues, etc.
They do not include provision for periodicals and audiovisual materials, which are referred to separately. •
Storage of resen re stock: In closed access stacks allow 59 sq.ft. per 1000 volumes.(This ~ approximately doubled if compact shelving is employed)
capacity will be
In limited access, stacks allow 75sq.ft. per 1000 volumes. •
Display and consultation of newspapers and periodicals: In libraries serving populations up t020,000: For populations above 20;000:
scat per 20()() population. seal per 3000 populations.
(Note however that local needs may vary widely. Allow 32sq.ft. per seat) .. Storage and use of audiovisual materials: • ,.
no standard recommended.
Staff accommodation: Workroonrs·andoffices: add 20% to the total area of public departments. (Tuis will be equivalent to about 1O-12m2per staff member) Rest rooms.kitchen,
toilets, cloakrooms, etc.:
Number of staff
.•
Tota{area required
2
8m2'
10
40m2
Circulation space or "balance area ":
Circulation space consists of entrance hall, stain veIls, lavatories, cloakrooms, and lobbies and corridors outsidethe areas already discussed. . 46
Allow 10-15% of all public areas and 20-25% of all staff areas. The higherfigurcs are unlikely to be needed except in some large libraries. The lower figures (10% and 20%, respectively) should be regarded as "balance area". available for any desired purpose within the building if careful planning has made it unnecessary to provide circuiation space on,~his scale.
Public Llhrury N"rms • . 'Stundurda and Guidelines
Self Check Exercise 5) •What is the acquisition rate prescribed for general libraries in the IFLA' Guidelines, 2000?
6) Note:
What is the composition of staff in a public library. according to the IFLA Standards for Public Libraries, 1973177 ? i).
Write your answers in the space given below.
ii)
Check your answers with the answers given at the end of the Unit. , .................................................................................................................... ,
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11.4 PUBLIC' LIBRARY GUIDELINES Many countries in the world have developed their own separate guidelines for public libraries. They are prepared either by the library associations or by the government. International body like IFLA (International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions) has issued guidelines for public libraries at the international level. IFLA has also issued guidelines for libraries in the allied and. ~ fields such as libraries for the deaf people, mobile libraries, hospital . disabled people, Braille & talking books, audiovisual services; etc. In this unit, we shall discuss only h~O sets of guidelines for public libraries. one pertaining to India and the other to the international level. The guidelines are primarily designed to enable each 10cHIauthority to set service principles appropriately tailored to thc needs of their communities within a national framework However, they may also be used as recourse to aid longer-term service development.
11.4.1 Indian Public Library Guidelines As has been indicated under Indian Public Library Standards (11.3.1) earlier, nobody has ever published any guidelines for public libraries exclusively in India. The only document is the Guidelines for Public Library Systems and Services prepared by the Raja Rammohun Roy Library Foundation in 1991.The salient features of the Guidelines are given below: . 11.4.1.1 Defmitions, Objectives and Functions The modern public library is an institution, established and administered under a state law by a local government or an ad hoc autonomous lib~ary authority or a government department maintained wholly out of public funds, open to all without distinction and free of charge. Objectives and functions prescribed by Unesco Public Library Manifesto have been reiterated . by the Guidelines. 11:4.1.2 Resources The book collection should be comprehensive in all local languages covering all subjects according to the need, and beocnstantly reviewed. kept up-to-date and attractively presented: It should stock appropriate materials irrespective of its fotm. Since, for centuries, the printed word has been the accepted medium for communication of knowledge, ideas and information; books, periodicals and newspapers remain tile mostimportant resources of public libraries>
47
Management of Public Library System
11.4.1.3 Organisation of Services A public library building should be centrally situated, accessible to the physically handicapped and open at times convenient to the users. The building and its furnishing should be attractive. informal and welcoming. Direct access by.readers to the shelves is essential. The public library should be active and positive in its outlook and encourage its use by providing reference service and lending of books for home reading. The public library is a natural culture centre for the community. Space and equipment are, therefore, necessary for exhibitions, discussions, lectures, musical performances and film shows. both for adults and children: Branch libraries' and mobile libraries carrying adequate book stock with a circulation desk for . lending of books 'must be provided in rural and suburban areas. Trained and competent staff in adequate numbers is vital to select and organise resources and assist users. 11.4.1.4 Public Library System A system may be defined as an organisation of service units under which each unit discharges its predetermined role as an· integral part of the system. and the 'smaller units receive administrative, technical, financial and personal support from the central units, In the case of library services, a central unitwill provide other units (libraries) with common seivices such as selection, acquisition and processing of books, compilation of bibliographies and reading' lists, and indexing of articles ofloca1 interest. 11.4.1.5 Functions of Libraries As the apex of the' state public library system, the State Central Library has important role to play as a repository of all publications in the state, to bring out a State Bibliography of all such publications', to provide common technical services such as centralised selection and processing etc. Similarly, the Guidelines have recommended functions for different categories of public libraries, vrz., divisional/regional libraries, district central libraries, village libraries, etc. 11.4.1.6 Voluntary Organisations Libraries run by voluntary organisations should be registered under the Societies Registration Act. The state government should not take over these libraries. as it would amount to terminating their autonomy and spontaneity. They should, however, be given matching grants. 11.4.1.7 LibraryLegislation Library legislation is considered necessary to develop integrated public library service in a • state. Establishment of public library networks to ensure organised co-operation among different units is a desired goal. 11.4.1.8 Administrative Machinery The. guidelines have recommended the need for a (a) National Commission on Library and Information Services, and (b) a Bureau of Library and Information Services at the central level. It has also suggested establishment of directorates of libraries and library committees at state level. . 11.4.1.9 Library Finance The Guidelines have reaffirmed the recommendations of the' NAPLIS Report (National Policy on Library and information Services) in respect of library finance -that the central and state governments should provide for an expenditure of 6-1 0 per cent oftheir education budget for libraries. No definite recommendation has been made for library cess. It recalled the recommendation of the 8th Plan Working Group on Libraries and Informatics for levy of Re. I to Rs. 10 per annum by all public libraries in the country. . 11•.4.1.10 Library Services' .
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A public library should render services for education, information, recreation, culture (aesthetic
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appreciation) and research. The public-libraries need to provide materials to meet demands of these objectives. All public libraries shall hold ·reading materials irrespective of their nomenclature, size and location. But, non-book or audio-visual materials will be required and held mainly by central libraries orlarge libraries and will be made available to smaller iibmties
for use. To avoid unnecessary duplication of serials and less used books, the library system should define its Book Acquisition Policy.
Puhlic Library Norms, Standards and C;uidclines
11.4.1.11 Library Personnel
It is recognised that no single formula can take care of all sitnations. In general terms, one post per 2,000 literate population should be provided in central libraries at state/divisional/district! city levels. In case of central libraries, the proportion of professional staff to the total should be 40 per cent against 33 per cent in other public libraries. Adequate stafffor central libraries should be provided for(a) Administrative Services Division, (b) Technical Services Division and (c) Reader Service Division. (Details may be seen under 11.3 .1.2 ) 11.4.1.12 Library Building
Generally. a gross area of21 ;520 sq.ft. is provided for a population of25,000, i.e., 0.86 sq. ft. per person, which is the international standard. But it cannot be applied in case of central libraries required to serve the entire nation. a state or a region. In these cases, the area is to be worked out on the basis of actual need. In designing a library building. a brief should be prepared by the concerned librarian delineating, (a) the functional qualities and characteristics of the new bui lding, (b) space required for administrative, technical and reader service stations, and (c) logical placeinent of sections in relation to each other. The Guidelines have also outlined details on design and location of the library building. (Details maybe seen under 11.3.1.3-5 ) 11.4.1.13 Other Physical Facilities
All floors should have a uniform level of illumination. No separate study cubicles should be provided for on any floor. Steel racks should be preferred to wooden, both in the stack area as well as the reading rooms because of their durability. Book capacity should be worked out at the rate of120 volumes per 11 sq. ft. of floor area. Specifications of library furniture and fittings have also been specified in detail by the Guidelines. (Details may be seen under 1l.3.l.6) 11.4.1.14 Organisation
of Materials
While recognising the fact that there is hardly any consistency in processing of books, the Guidelines have stated that thc solution lies in centralised processing to be carried out by master classifiers and cataloguers. It could also save the amount of time and effort being wasted by each library in processing the same books. At times, it is felt that classification and 'cataloguing procedures 'should be simplified in case of small town and village libraries. However, it would be necessary if book processing is centralised at central libraries and printed catalogue cards arc made available to all the libraries in the system. 11.4.1.15 Library Records and Statistics
All libraries are expected to maintain statistics oflibrary holdings and services on a regular basis. The libraries should also bring out Annual Reports which should cover all administrative matters (including history and background, government library relationship), financial matters, technical services, readers services, personnel, library holdings, building and equipment, and co-operation with other libraries, etc. 11.4.1.16 Applications of Information
Technology
The computer cannot by itself detect the human error in the processing of a book. It is, therefore, seriouslyadvised by the Guidelines that manual cataloguing (Involving classification, assignment of subject dcscriptor, ctc.) that precedes computerised cataloguing must first be , improved. The CDS/ISIS programme, designed by Unesco is being promoted in India by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) under the NISSAT programme. Its . impact is yet to be assessed. India cannot develop national databases unless a national bibliographic software is designed which is compatible with all makes of computers. Some organisations or institutions have to provide leadership in the matter. Self-Check Exercise
7)
According to the Guidelines for Public Library Systems and Services, how are services organised in a public library? 49
Manl\Jement of Public Library System
8)
On the topic of building up of a public library system, what are the guidelines available in India?
Note:
i)
Write your answers in the space given below.
ii)
Check your answers with the answers given at the end of the Unit."
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11.4.2 International Public Library Guidelines ; Forced by the fact that the IFLA's Guidelines for Public Libraries, 1986, has been over-taken by the dramatic developments in information technology in the last few years, the Working Group of the IFLA Section of Public Libraries has prepared new version. This draft "~lS debated at the IFLA Conference in Jerusalem in August 2000 and it has been decided to accept them after incorporating some more instances oflibrary practices. The IF'LA Public Library Guidelines, 2000, are given in summary form here, which are accepted as the international guidelines for public libraries. IFLA did not include quantitative standards in the Guidelines because it believed that standards must vary according to local circumstances and must be worked out separately in individual countries or on 1:1 regional basis. So, these Guidelines work out to be qualitative in nature. That is, they are not "standards ", but guidelines. The Guidelines are written as tool, offering a detailed checklist of services and facilities, which a public library might offer.
a
11.4.2.1 Role and Purpose of Public Library The purposes of a public library are to provide resources and services in a variety of media to meet the needs of individuals and groups for education (formal and informal which is a lifelong activity), information (in traditional and electronic forms) and personal development including recreation and leisure. Besides the public library's duty to meet the needs of all "groups in the community, it has a special responsibility to meet the needs of the children and young people and act as an agency for personal and social development and change in the community. Public libraries are the key agency in the local community for the collection. preservation and promotion oflocal culture and also for provision of community information services. For the long-term success, the library should be based on the culture of the country and not on a form introduced from elsewhere. 11.4.2.2 The Legal and Financial Framework Public library legislation: In orderto maintain the level of service required to fulfil their functions. public libraries should be supported by legislation and sustained funding by the appropriate level of government. Legislation governing public libraries should state which level of government is responsible for their provision and how they should be funded. Funding: Funding is required not only when a public library is established but should be sustained on an assured and regular basis. The primary sources of fund are, taxation at local, regional or central level, and block grants from central, regional or local level. Other sources of income may include donations, revenue from commercial activities, revenue from user fees. etc.
50
The Governance of the Public Library: Public libraries should be governed by a properly established body made up largely of representatives of the local community including those elected either to the local council or to the library board. Library committees and boards should have rules of procedure and their proceedings should be open to the general public. Although th~ final decisions on policy will be taken by the governing body and the librarian.
'"
ways should be sought to involve the local citizens who are the actual or potential library users.
Public Library Norms, Standards and Guidelines
11.4.2.3 Meeting the Needs of the Users
Any limitation of access, whether deliberate or accidental, will reduce the ability of the public library to fully achieve its primary role of meeting the library and information needs of the community it serves. The following are important elements in delivering an effective public library service: Identif.ving and Analy sing Us er s: To collect ana analyse data which identifies those needs
of individuals and groups within the community which can be met by the public library. Services to Ui•e• r.••: The services of the library should not be subjected to any form of ideological,
political, religious or commercial pressure. Services must be able to adjust and develop to reflect changes in society. They should take into account the traditional cultures as well as the new developments ..The library should facilitate access to children, young adults, physically disadvantaged and adults.
,
•
Customer Care: Customers should be involved in service development by demand survey for library services, analysis of their complaints and suggestions, etc. The public library should help its users develop skills which will enablethem to make the most effective use of the library's resources and services through guided tours and other methods including using information and communication technology. ,
Co-operation and Resource Sharing: The libtary should establish formal links with other organisations in the local-community, e.g., schools, cultural institutions such as museums, galleries and archives, literacy programmes, chambers of commerce or boards of trade, in order to jointly improve services to the community. Electronic Network. ••: The public library, to become the electronic doorway to information in
the digital age. should provide access to the resources of the library and to those other libraries and information services through the creation, maintenance andlor participatiomn effective electronic networks at the local, regional, national and increasingly international levels. The library should provide free public access to the Internet/World Wide Web to enable all citizens, regardless of their economic means. It should have at least one public access workstation with Internet access arid a printer that is not shared with staff. Ifpossible, the remote access to its electronic resources and services from their home, school or workplace should be made accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Library staff on the other hand,should have access to the Internet/World Wide Web as well ' as regular training in using the Internet so that they can play the role of"infonnation navigator". Public library service outlets should be located 'for the maximum convenience of residents of the community. If possible, they should be near the centre of transport networks and close to areas of community activity, e.g., shops, commercial centres, cultural centres. The outlet should be higblyvisible and easily reached by foot, public transport, where available. or by private vehicle. In well developed urban and suburban areas, a public library should be available within a journey by private vehicle of about 15 minutes. In order to provide the best possible access to the library service, the library must be open at hours of maximum convenience to the residents of the community.
Acces s to Services:
Library Buildings: While planning a library, the following elements should be considered: a)
the function, oft he library, b) the size ofthe library , c) designated spaces (space for services to adults, children and young adults and for family use), d) design features (to guarantee easy access for all users and in particular persons with physical inabilities), e) accessible shelving, sign-posting, f) the ambience of the library(adequate and attractive space, comfortable temperature and humidity, provision of cafes), g) electronic and audio-visual equipment, h) safety, and i) parkingtsafe, well-lit, appropriately identified for 'the handicapped). As regards design features, the following features should be included in the planning of a new library: The exterior of the library should be well lit and identified with-signs clearly visible from the street. The entrance of the library should be clearlyvisible and located on that part of the building that most users approach. There should be no design features that limit the ability' of all individual or groups to use any part of the library. Care should be taken to
51
Management of Public Library System
avoid steps as much as possible in both interior and exterior design. Lighting levels should comply with those stated in international or national standards. Libraries that occupy two or more floors should provide elevators that are close to the library entrance and that easily accommodate wheelchairs and child strollers. The library 'should provide facilities for the return of library materials when the library is closed. After-hours deposit boxes should be theft proof and waterproof A library should undertake an "accessibility" audit on a regular basis to confirm that there are no barriers to easy use. As regards Accessible Shelving, materials should be displayed in open shelves and arranged at a height within easy reach for users. All shelving should be adjustable and preferably on lockable wheels so that it can easily be moved. The furniture in the children's section should be appropriately sized. Shelves should be of accessible height and width for persons using a wheelchair. . On Sign-Posting, the Guidelines stipulate that signs should be carefully planned to cominunicate an appropriate image of the library. Internal areas of the ljbrary and parts ofthe collection should be clearly identified by signs of a professional standard so that users can easily find them. Directional signs should be erected in nearby streets and town centres to . guide the public to the library. \
,
Regarding safety, the Guidelines have touched upon smoke and fire alarms, fire extinguishers and emergency exits, training of staff in first aid, evacuation drills preparation of a disaster plan, etc.
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11.4.2.4 Collection Development The public library should provide equality of access to a range of resources that meets the needs of its users for education, information, leisure and personal development. The library should provide access to the heritage of its society and develop diverse cultural resources and experiences. Constant interaction and consultation with the focal community will help to ensure this objective is achieved. Collection Management Policy: Each public library system requires a written Collection Management Policy, endorsed by the governing body of the library service. The following categories oflibrary materials may be represented ill a typical public library. although this list is not exhaustive: Fiction and non-fiction; periodicals: local, regional and national newspapers; community information, government information. business imonnation: local history resources, genealogical resources, resources in the primary language of the community, resources in minority languages in the community, resources in other languages: musie scores, computer games, toys, games and puzzles, study materials including textbooks. The public library should provide a wide range of materials In a variety of formats which include (though not exhaustive): Books, both hard and soft covers; pamphlets and ephemera; newspapers and periodicals including cuttings, files; digital information through the Internet, on-line databases, CD-ROM databases, software progranunes, Digital Versatile Disks (DVDs); microforms, tapes and COs, video cassettes, laser discs, large print materials, Braille materials, audio books, electronic books, and posters. Standards/or Book Collections: The Guidelines have stipulated some standards relating to book collection. Local and financial circumstances could lead to variations in these proposed standards. As a general guide, an established book collection should. he between 1.5 to 2.5 books per capita. The minimum stock level for the smallest service point should not be less than 2.500 books. In the smallest collections materials for children, adult fiction and adult non-fiction may be provided in equal proportions. In larger collections, the percentage of non-fiction titles will tend to increase. These ratios can vary according to the needs of the local community and the role of the public library. Relevant collections to serve the needs of young adults should be developed (IFLA Guidelines for Library Services to Young Adults). Where the library has a strong educational role, this should be reflected in,the composition of the stock,
52
Where reliable population figures are not available, alternative methods of developing standards are needed. Comparisons with a number of existing libraries serving communities of a similar .
size and make-up can be used to determine a target figure for the size of the collection and the resources needed to maintain it
Public Library' Norms, Standards and Guidelines
Standards for Electronic Information Facilities: The development of standards for the provision of electronic information facilities is at an early stage. Current standards include the' following: A standard of'one computer access point per 5,000 populations has been used in Canada. The latest standard in England recommends that the total number of workstations, including those for on-line catalogues, which are available for public use, should not be less than p.7 per 1,000 popuIations. In Queensland, Australia, it is recommended that the followitig be provided: For population up to 50,000 - I personal computer (PC) per 5,000 population; For population over 50,000 - 1 PC per 5,000 population for 50,000 population and 1 PC per each additional 10,000 population. These standards recommend that at least half the public computers should have access to the Internet and all should have access to a printer.
J' Collection Development Programme: The Guidelines have identified. three. phases of development of a library and have made recommendations in respect of each. In the first phase, i.e., Establishment Phase, sufficient range and depth of resources to meet general needs should be the aim rather than comprehensive coverage. The inter-library loan system should be at its peak utilisation during this phase to supplement the developing collections. ideally, a new library should be established with a minimum base stock of 1.0 book per capita . .Wile re this is not achievable, a modest growth plan should be.implemented to establish this minimum base stock over a period of three years. Access to electronic information sources should also be included in this phase. In the second phase, viz., Consolidation Phase, the objective is to achieve growth in the book stock size, range and depth. Special conditions of the population are taken into account and collections developed to meet the more in-depth needs of the population served. A growth of 2.0 books per capita would be a modest target over a three-year period. During the third phase, called Steady State Phase, the collections meet the needs of'the community in depth, range and quantity. The quality of collections .is maintained by acquisition rates matching discard rates, New formats are accommodated within the collections as they become available and access is provided to the widest possible range of resources through the use of technology. . Acquisition Rates: The Guidelines have laid down standards for acquisition rates for libraries in general, small and mobile libraries, and special collection.
-
.General libraries: For general book stock in an established library service, the following acquisition rates may be applied: Books pet capita per annum
Books per 1000 population
: Below 25, 000 .
0.25
250
25,000 - 50, 000
0.225
225
Population
50,000+0.20
200
The following examples suggest the size of stock for communities of different sizes:
Established library service for:
Median book stock:
Annual acquisition rate: .
Scenario 1
Scenario 2
Scenario 3
100,000 .
50,000 pop.'
20,000 pop.
Population
population
population
200,000
100,000
40,000
volumes ,
volumes
volumes
20,000
11,250
5,Om
volumes
volumes
volumes 53
Manalement of Public Lihrary System
Small Libraries and Mobile Libraries: In these cases, the acquisition rates, renewal rates or exchange rates should be based upon the collection size rather than the population served, and be in the order of 100 per cent or more per annum. An efficient inter-library loan system is essential in these situations. . Special Collections: The collection policy must reflect the special needs wherever such situations prevail. Particular examples of these are indigenous resources, local history resources and reference collections. . 11.4.2.5 Human Resources In order to provide the best possible service to the community, it is necessary to maintain well trained and highly motivated staff to make effective use of the resources of the library. Staff Categories: The following categories of staff are found in public libraries: qualified librarians, library assistants, specialist staff on computer, finance, marketing, training, etc. and support staff. It is recommended that 0.5 - 1.0 per cent of the total library budget should be earmarked for training purposes of the staff. Staffing Levels: Allowing for a number of factors' affecting the level of staff including the level of available resources, specific requirements and other local differences, the following. basic staffing level (excluding support staff) is recommended: • One full-time equivalent member of staff for 2,500 population One-third of staff (excluding support staff) should be a qualified librarian. Where reliable population figures are not available, staffing levels can be related to~he size of the library, the range of its functions and the number of users. i' The Guidelines have also laid down recommendations on other aspects like monitoring of staff development, contacts ofstafffor better delivery of services. career development, working conditions, their health and safety, and dealing with anti-social' elements in the library. It is also stipulated that where volunteers help library staff a written policy should be in place defining the tasks of these volunteers and their relationship to the library operation and staff. 11.4.2.6 The Management and Marketing of Public Libraries
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To be effective, a public library requires experienced, flexible and well-trained managers and staff able to use a range of management techniques. Financial Management: In order that the library operates efficiently (at optimum . performance), economically (atrninimum cost), and effectively (at maximumbenefit) the Library Manager should look for ways of improving levels of funding, prepare 3/5 year business plans based on the library's long term plans and other ways. Management Tools:Community Needs Analysis, Monitoring and Evaluation, and Performance Measurement are recommended by the Guidelines as management tools. Through the Community Needs Analysis, the library collects detailed information about the local community and its library and information needs. In Monitoring and Evaluation, all programmes and services are evaluated on a regular basis. Performance Measurements or performance indicators are established to measui:ethe input 'and the output in order to evaluate and monitor the achievement of the library's objectives." Marketing and Promotion: Library managers can use marketing techniques to enable them to understand and plan the needs of the users, and to ensure that the community and the funding bodies fully understand the importance of public library. Lobbying and advocacy involving interaction with decision-makers. to secure specific objectives should be developed. Librarians should look for as many opportunities as possible to involve the library' s governing body in its major actrvities to promote the interests of the library. Another important technique is participation in community life through promotional strategies like book reviews on radio, working with literature and cultural groups, supporting literacy organisations and campaigns, etc. The library should have a written communications, marketing and promotions policy (including its evaluation) to enable it to undertake a planned promotion of its services to the public. 54
Library staff should be trained to use communication media to promote the library service and ' respond to media inquiries. They should also be able to promote the library and its services via computer and telecommunication networks including the creation of,library web-sites.
Public Standards
Library Nurms, and Guidelines
Self Check Exercise 9)
Wha~ are the IFLA stipulations on governance of a public library?
10)' Describe IFLA Guidelines on collection development in a public library? Note:
i)
Write your answers in the space given below ..
ii)
Check your answers with the answers given at the end of the Unit.
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, ....................................................................................................................
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11.5
"
.
SUMMARY
This unit has been· divided into three parts ..These are: definitions, norms/standards and guidelines, The definition part deals with public library norms, standards, guidelines and manifesto. Manifesto is more general and the others gain relatively more specificity in order guidelines, standards/norms. And also the latter is based on the former in the sense while standards/norms are based on guidelines, guidelines are based on manifesto. Public Library Standards or Norms are criteria by which the services of a library is measured and assessed. As in the case of guidel ines, Public Library Standards prescribed at the national level and international levels have been given in this Unit. In case ofIndian public libraries, the standards given in the appropriate places in the Guidelines for Public Library Systems and Services are segregated and listed in the unit. The/JFLA Guidelines at international level have not given any specific, standards for public libraries, as they believe that in the present state of public library development, there could be no common standards of services applicable universally. Despite the fact that issuing of standards are not in practice today by international organisations like Unesco or IFLA, the JFLA Standards for Public Libraries 1971/1977 presented in a summary form in the unit. Besides, the learners are expected to study the rules/advice given (on. quantitative aspect~) in the IFLA Guidelines, 2000, along with .
•
Guidelines, as the term indicates, are guides to realising what has ~n declared in the manifesto as the intentions/objectives. This unit deals with two sets of Guidelines, one at national level and the other at international level. They are the Guidelines for P-ublic Library Systems and Services published by RRRLF and the IFLA Public Library Guidelines 2000 respectively.
11.6 1)
ANSWERS TO THt SELF CHECK EXERCISES
Standards are authoritative principles or rules that usually imply a model or pattern for guidance; by comparison, with which the quantity, excellence.correctness, etc., of'other things may be determined. Public library standards may be defined as the criteria by which services may be measured and assessed: They are determined by professional librarians in order to attain and maintain the objectives they have set for themselves. Standards may be interpreted variously as the pattern of an ideal, a model procedure, a measure for appraisal, a stimulus for future development and as an instrument to assist decision and action.
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.Standards bring uniformity and order. Standards-are necessary for establishment of new . libraries and the improvement of existing ones. These are required as a guide to the level offinancial,material, and human support necessary to ensure that libraries will be able to fulfill their responsibilities to the users. Library standards arc essential for the planning and evaluation of library services.
Management of Public Library System
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The library standards provide the n0011Sboth in qualitative terms and quantitative terms to be followed to implement the guidelines and thereby attain the goals. The standards are used to measure and assess the achievements, remove the hurdles and to plan for the future. The library standards are considered as the minimum and-not as the maximum standards. However, no standards are valid forever. They are revised frequently in. appreciation of changes in social conditions, educational trends, and technological development affecting libraries. 2)
Manifesto is an important statement of principles. Guidelines and standards are more detailed statements of practical of'nature, which policy makers could use in developing public library services. Guidelines are guides O! indications of future course of action. Guidelines are relatively more specific than manifesto in the sense that they tell you what items in the manifesto are to be achieved and how. . Standards are authoritative principles or rules that usually imply a model or pattern for guidance, by comparison, with which the quantity, excellence, correctness, etc .. of other things may be determined: Library standards may. be defined as the criteria by which services may be measured and assessed. The guidelines immediately, and subsequently the standards, arc based/founded on the manifesto.
3)
The Guidelines for Public Library Systems and Services stipulate that the states spending less than 70 paise per capita (the national average) should try to reach a level of expenditure of Re. 1 per capita or alternatively one per cent of annual expenditure on education and culture during the 8th Plan period (1992-'97) and those who were already spending above Re. 1per capita should try to reach a level of expenditure of Rs.2. 50 per capita The Guidelines have recommended levyingofa charge on the public library service. In order to make it worthwhile, the charge should be Rs. 10 per annum, but a concession of 33 per cent (Rs.20) M allowed toa family consisting of three members, each having the right to borrow books in their individual capacity.
4)
The building should be modular in design, which should mean that distance between the pillars should Iileuniform. The distance between the pillars should not be less tha n 21 ft. and not more than 30·ft. and be divisible by three. The building should be preferably rectangular in shape as bookracks and tables are also made in the same shape. No mezzanine floors recommended, No ceiling should be more than l(j ft. in height in nonair-conditioned, and not less than nine feet six inches in case of air-conditioned buildings (to provide for ceiling fans). Each floor should be at one single level to facilitate movement of book trolleys. A book elevator (lift) should be provided, if the building has more than one floor. Internal staircases should be avoided in the middle of the floor. No basement" should be provided unless sub-soil is very deep. The load bearing capacity of all floors should be 50 kg. per sq. m.
5)
For general book stock in an established library service, the following acquisition rates may be applied:
Population
Books per capita per annum
Books per 1000 population
Below 25 000
0.25
250
25 (X)O - 50000
0.225
225
50000+0.20 56
2(x) .
The following examples suggest the size of stock for communities of different sizes:
Pubhc Librllr)' "Stllndllrds
Established library service for:
Median book stock:
Annual acquisition rate: 6)
Scenario 1
Scenario 2
Scenario 3
l00'(X)()
50,000
20,000
population
population
population
200,000
100,000
'W,OOO
volumes
volumes
volumes
20,000 vols.
11,250 vols.
5,000 vols.
Norms, IInd Gulde hne»
The staff composition prescribed by the IFLA Standards for Public Libraries 1973177 is as follows: '. •
Total non-manual staff (professional, clerical, administrative): In smallest administrative unit - 1 full-time qualified librarian with clerical assistance - In large administrative units with developed library services In very large administrative units
•
1 per 2,.000 population
1per2,500 population
Qua/ified librarians: In a developed, 'urban, compact unit
33% of total staff
In a library system with many branches an small service points
40% of total staff'
(In a large library system. one-third of professional librarians should be specialized in children's work). . 7)
The public library building should be centrally situated, accessible to the physically handicapped and open at times convenient to the user. The building and its furnishing should be attractive, informal and welcoming, Direct access by readers to the shelves is essential. TIle public library should be active and positive in its outlook, demonstrating the value of its services and encouraging their use by providing reference service and lending of books for home reading. The public library is a natural culture centre for the community. bringing together as it doe§ people of similar interests. Space and equipment are, therefore, necessary for exhibitions, discussions, lectures, musical performances and film shows. both for adults and children. Branch libraries and mobile libraries carrying adequate book stock with a circulation desk for lending of books must be provided in rural and suburban areas. Trained and competent staff in adequate number is vital to select and organise resources and assist users.
8)
India should have a public library system under which each unit should discharge its predetermined role as an integral part ofthe system and the smaller units should receive administrative, technical, financial and personal support from the central units. In other words, the central unit will provide other units (libraries) with common services such as selection. acqnisition and processing of books, compilation ofbibliographics and reading -lists, and indexing of articles oflocal interest.
9)
According to the IFLA Guidelines, 2000, a public library should be governed bya properly established body made up largely of representatives of the local community, including those elected either to the focal council or to the library board. Library committees and_ boards should have rulesof procedure and their proceedings should be open to the general public. Although the final decisions on policy will be taken by the governing body and the librarian, ways should be sought to involve the local citizens who are the _ actual or potential library users .
.
. 10) The IFLA Guidelines have identified three phases of development of a library and have Establishment Phase, and a sufficient range and depth of resources to meet general needs should be the aim rather than comprehensive coverage. The inter-library loan
57
system should be at its peak utilization during this phase to supplement the developing . made recommendations in respect of each. In the first phase, i.e., collections. Ideally, a new library should be established with a minimum base stock of 1.0 book per capita. Where this is not-achievable, a modest growth plan should be implemented to establish this minimum base stock over a period three years. Access to electronic information sources should also be included in this phase.
MaDag~meDt of Public Library System
1
1'1 the second phase, viz, Consolidation Phase, the objective is to achieve growth in the bookstock size, range and depth. Special conditions of the population are taken into account and collections developed to meet the more in-depth needs of the population served. The book discard factor comes into play and the collection growth rate decreases as discards' begin to offset acquisitions. A growth to 2.0 books per capita would be a modest target over a three-year period. During the third phase called Steady State Phase, the collections meet the needs of the community in depth, range and quantity. The quality of collections is maintained by acquisition rates matching discard rates. New formats are accommodated within the 'collections as they become available and access is provided to the widest possible range of resources through the use of technology.
11.7 KEY WORDS Accessibility
Permission and Opportunity to make' use of Qucuments.
Bibliographic Software
A Software which could allow to design a bibliographic database to identify and locate bibliographic information.
Library Standards
Accepted Practice or guidence to librarian in choosing the night design with functional efficiency
Library Statistics
Quantitative data pertaining to different sections and to measure the performance of the Library.
Electronic Resources
Information resources available in electronic format with wider access.
11.8
REFERENCES AND'FURTHER READING
IFLA (1986). Guidelinesfor Public Libraries. Prepared by the IFLA Section of Public Libraries, Munchen: K.G.Saur
,
IFLA (2000). Guidelinesfor Public Libraries. Prepared by the IFLA Section of Public Libraries.
•
Kalia, D.R.et. al. (1991). Guidelines for Public Library Systems and Services. Granthana: Indian Journal of Library Studies, 2( 1),31-84. Library Association (1995) Model Statement of Standards for Public Library Services, The Library Association, London. ' Library Association Information Services Group (1998) Basic Stockfor the Public Reference Library, London: Library Association Information Group. Library Association Information Services Group (1999) Guidelines for Reference and Information Services in Public Libraries. London: Library Association Information Services Group. c1ffice of Arts and Libraries (1990) Key to Success: Performance
Indicators for Public
Libraries, HMSO.
Withers, F. N. (1974) Standards for Library Service: An International Surve: Paris: Unesco.
58
APPENDIX Unesco Public Library Manifesto,
Public Library Norms, Standards and Guidelines'
1994 - Short version
According to the Unesco Public Library Manifesto, [994, the public library, the local gateway to knowledge, should provide conditions for lifelong learning, independent decision-making, and cultural development of the individual and social groups. Theservices of thepublic library should be provided on the basis of equality of access to all, regardless of age, race, sex, religion, nationality, language, or social status. Collections and services have to include all types of appropriate media and modern technologies as well as traditional materials. High quality and relevance to local needs and conditions are fundamental. Materials must reflect current trends and the evolution of society, as well as .the memory of human endeavour and imagination. Collection and services should not be subject to any form of ideological, political, or religious censorship, nor commercial . pressures.
,
The Manifesto has identified 12 key missions relating to information, literacy, education and culture, which should be. at the core of public library services. According to the Manifesto, public library shall in principle be free of charge. The public library is the. responsibility of local and national authorities. It should be supported by specific legislation and financed by national and local governments, and should promote a national library network. It also emphasised the need for a clear policy in relation to local community needs, co-operation with allied entities, accessibility of services, training to library staff, user education and maintaining of professional standards of operation.
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