Review of digital record management needs for academic libraries

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to explore the present practicing situation of digital record management (DRM) in the university libraries of Bangladesh. The more particular objectives are to identify the present preservation scenario of DRM, to find out the problems of DRM which are faced by archivists for long-term preservation, to identify the necessary tools and technologies for DRM and to explore the ways to overcome the existing problems. Design/methodology/approach Survey methods were used for gathering data using a well-structured questionnaire. The questionnaire was sent to the respondents of some selected public and private universities of Bangladesh. Findings The findings revealed that there are some hindrances to practise DRM, such as lack of stable preservation software, shortage of skilled IT personnel, allocation of insufficient budget, shortage of digital records, lack of proper training of library professionals, and these also provided some suitable suggestions, such as allocation of adequate fund, infrastructure development, recruitment of knowledgeable IT professionals, the simplicity of the intellectual property act, the willingness of authority regarding the implementation of DRM and frequently training arrangements for library professionals for the advancement of DH in the university libraries of Bangladesh. Originality/value The insights and views of the respondents regarding DRM tools and technologies obtained from this study are original and unique.