National Librarian’s Day Special: Modernizing Library Practices at SKUAST-Jammu through Ranganathan’s Laws

Prof. (Dr.) R.K.Samnotra  & Dr. Asha Rani

“A Librarian is not a custodian but  a Guide, a Helper, and a Teacher.” Dr. S.R. Ranganathan

Every year, August 12 marks Librarian’s Day in India- A tribute to Dr. S.R. Ranganathan, the father of Library Science in India, laid down five timeless laws that continue to guide and shape library services globally. These principles are not only relevant today but have gained even more significance in the context of digital transformation, user-centric services, and academic excellence. At SKUAST-Jammu (Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology – Jammu), these laws are reflected clearly in the design, policies, and services of its library. Applying Dr. S.R. Ranganthan’s Five Laws of Library Science in the context of today’s modern library practices, especially with reference to the SKUAST-Jammu Library, involves blending traditional principles with modern technological advancements and user-centric services. Here’s how each law can be applied effectively:

1. FIRST LAW-BOOKS ARE FOR USE

The first law emphasizes that books and library resources are meant to be used, not locked away or preserved unused. This law demands that all efforts should be made to ensure that all the books kept in the library are used because it is created for use. This law places emphasis on the use of books rather than storage.At SKUAST-Jammu, library ensures convenient access to textbooks, research journals/periodicals, theses, e-books, diversified study materials and agricultural and allied subjects’ databases through a user-friendly OPAC system and extended reading hours. Special care is taken to organize materials relevant to agricultural studies, making them readily usable by students, researchers, faculty members, scientists, etc. In addition, SKUAST-Jammu Library provides the following services:

• Open Access Shelving: SKUAST-Jammu Library promotes open shelving systems, enabling users to browse and pick books themselves.
• E-resources & Databases: The library provide online journals, e-books, and research databases like Krishikosh, Shodhganga, wi-fi enabled library building, CeRA, National Digital Library of India- free remote access to a vast repository of educational content (more than 4.30 lakh)-it allow SKUAST users to access diverse range of e-literature resources through a passkey system, increasing access to knowledge beyond physical books.
• Digital Repository & Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC): Users can search, locate, and even download materials remotely.
• Library Automation: Integrated Library Management Systems (ILMS) like KOHA are used for faster circulation and resource availability.
• Resources and Facilities Compatible to Users: Library provides Resources and facilities that easily accessible, user-friendly, and tailored to meet the specific needs and preferences of different user groups.
• Season Friendly Reading Areas: Theexisting reading areas of the library have been classified for their best utility as per the adopted study pattern and behavior of the users viz. solace, extrovert, introvert, serene reading corners, season-friendly tranquil zone, Huddle zone, Research Carrel Gallery, Technology equipped discussion-cum-professional practice rooms, etc.
• Attitude Based Seating/Standing Posture areas: These areas thoughtfully designed that accommodate users’ physical comfort and preferences to enhance focus, engagement, and user satisfaction.

2. EVERY READER HIS/HER BOOK

This law implies that the “books are for use of all”. Every reader has the equal right to get the book of his / her interest. A library should serve all patrons, no matter their age, race, or economic status.At SKUAST-Jammu Library, Various Customized services are provided to ensure every user finds the resources they need, whether for study, research, or innovation such as:

• Analyzes User behavior: Libraryprofessionals can track patterns in user behavior such as frequently visited sections, borrowed books, search queries/patterns-and adjusts library services accordingly. 
• Personalized digital content: Just like how shopping apps suggest products, SKUAST Library recommends digital content like e-books, research papers, educational videos, journals, e-resources, and even research databases, which are most relevant for particular student/researcher/scientists.
• Diversified Study Material: The library provideDiversified Study Materialin agriculture, veterinary sciences, horticulture, and allied disciplines to cater to diverse academic needs.
• Inclusive Resources: The library also provides resources in Hindi, English, and regional languages.
• User Surveys & Feedback: Regular feedback is collected to improve the quality and relevance of services and collections.

3. THIRD LAW: EVERY BOOK ITS READER

The Third Law prescribes Every Book its Reader. The emphasis is on the book. This law desires that every book in a library must find its reader. It implies that there should be maximum use of books by their users.AtSKUAST-Jammu, the library uses classification systems like DDC 23rd edition and digital tools to ensure books are discoverable. It also promotes lesser-used materials through orientations, user awareness programs, and displays of new arrivals in agricultural and allied subjects.

• Improves discoverability: Every digital or physical resource must be discoverable and accessible to those who need it via RFID tagging and semantic search.
• Resource Promotion: New arrivals, diversified study material received as gratis from various organizations, underutilized materials through analytics, databases, and rare collections are promoted through e-mail, Library website, social media, and notice boards.
• Information Literacy Programs: The library conducts training on how to use e-resources, access scientific databases, etc.
• Inter-Library Loan (ILL): Books not available in one Library can be accessed through collaborations with other Campus library.

4. SAVE THE TIME OF THE READER

The Fourth Law says “Save the Time of the Reader.” A library user must be assumed a busy person. It is essential to keep the reader satisfied and a reader is satisfied most if his/her time is saved, i.e., if he/she gets the needed service in minimum possible time. The SKUAST-Jammu Libraryprovides the following services to save the time of the users as well as library staff:

• Smart Navigation: Clearly labeled sections/zones/corner/classification of areas for the convenience of users viz. solace, extrovert, introvert, serene reading corners, season-friendly tranquil zone, Huddle zone, Research Carrel Gallery, Technology equipped discussion-cum-professional practice rooms, floor plans, signage, and staff guidance save time in locating resources.
• Reduce User efforts and Time: Automated cataloguing, circulation, RFID & Barcode Scanningtechnologies/automated operations allow fast check-in/check-out, reducing queue times and improving service efficiency.
• Buffer Lobby and a waiting lounge: Established for hassle free functioning of the circulation desk with the increase in the footprints of library users. Aims to offer vital space for rest, study, collaboration, and socialization, enhancing the overall library experience with an overview display of library resource, facilities and achievements through e- media and fostering a sense of community.
• Digital Repository: Users can instantly access previous research and theses through the SKUAST-Jammu e-theses portal-Krishikosh, Shodhganga.
• Mobile Applications & Remote Access: Students and faculty can access user friendly OPAC and e-resources through Library apps and off-campus login services.
• Wi-Fi/Online Libraries & Computer Facilities: Internet-connected terminals help users directly search, download, and print documents.

5. THE LIBRARY IS A GROWING ORGANISM

A library will grow in terms of documents, readers, and staff.While planning and designing a library building, there should be a provision for the expansion of the building, both horizontally as well as vertically. The library should provide adequate space for the present as well as the future. The SKUAST-Jammu Libraryprovides the following services in context of fifth Law of Rangathan’s:

• Expansion of Digital Infrastructure: Continuous addition of new online journals, e-books, and databases.
• Adaptive Intelligent Systems: Conventional-Modern-Automated-Digital-AI as per user demands
• Outside boundary wall/Season friendly Open Air Reading Facilities: This Facility is first of its kind in J & K, is well equipped with colorful sitting arrangements with UV harvest orientation in the Green Zones of the Central Library and is near the students’ hostel and residential complex for its easy access and effective utilization for a maximum period of time in a day.
• AI and Data Analytics: Plans to incorporate AI-based recommendation systems and user behavior analysis for smarter services.
• Modern Infrastructure: Development of reading lounges, digital resource centers, and collaborative workspaces.
• Capacity Building: Regular training of library staff in ICT tools, AI integration, metadata management.
• Practices: Adoption of eco-friendly practices like reduced paper usage, solar-powered systems, and smart lighting.

Conclusion

As we celebrate the legacy of Dr. S.R.Rangathan, we realize that his Five Laws are not outdated – they are more relevant than ever before. When applied with the power of modern technology, they enable libraries to become smart, efficient, and truly user-centered. With its user-centric approach and forward-thinking vision, SKUAST-Jammu Library is not only preserving Ranganathan’s legacy but also redefining what a modern library can achieve. The SKUAST-Jammu Library is a shining example of this integration. By embracing modern technology while staying rooted in Ranganathan’s philosophy, it offers an enhanced experience to researchers, faculty, and students alike.Let us continue this journey of ensconcing Ranganathan in the digital age – where tradition meets technology and every reader finds not only his book but his future.