Researchers Expectations Towards Library Research Support Services (LRSS)

Abstract

This cross-sectional study is aimed to identify the expectations and problems faced by faculty members and research scholars at Maharshi Dayanand University regarding library research support services (LRSS) under seven service dimensions. The research outcome reveals that the service most anticipated by the participants was ‘Database Services’ having the highest mean score, followed by ‘Infrastructure Facilities’ and ‘Institutional Repositories’. The least expected service was ‘Scholarly Communication Services’ which had the lowest mean score. The only service with significant differences between gender and qualifications was ‘Infrastructure Facilities’. In terms of challenges faced, the most noteworthy problems identified included inadequate funding for Article Processing Charges and limited access to computers in the library. Other problems included a lack of training in research support tools and ICT skills, lack of accessibility to library services from home, poor Internet connectivity, and lack of training/ consultation to use services. The library staff was reported to be helpful and supportive. The study provides insights into the expectations and problems of users in the context of LRSS. The study also highlights the imperative need for adequate funding for APCs and improved computer facilities, alongside targeted training initiatives for optimum use of research support tools and enhancing ICT skills to improve the efficacy of LRSS.