A Comparative Study Of Collection Management And User Services In University Libraries Of Uttar Pradesh

Abstract

The ever-changing landscape of academic libraries in agricultural universities necessitates a thorough examination of user services and collection management techniques to ensure the optimal use of resources and service delivery. There are three well-known agricultural universities in Uttar Pradesh, India: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology (SVPUAT), Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Pashu, Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya This substantial research effort examines Evam Go-Anusandhan Sansthan (DUVASU) Mathura and Banda University of Agriculture and Technology (BUAT) Banda in great detail. This paper employs a mixed-methods approach to investigate various aspects of library operations, such as collection development strategies, resource acquisition policies, digital integration initiatives, and user service frameworks, using data collected over a four-year period (2020-2024).

The research methodology includes detailed surveys, in-depth interviews with library users and staff members, extensive document analysis, and meticulous observation of library activities. The findings reveal significant disparities in collection management strategies: SVPUAT Meerut emphasises digital resource integration, DUVASU Mathura excels in specialised veterinary science collections, and BUAT Banda demonstrates innovative resource sharing and community involvement. User satisfaction analysis reveals variations in service performance; as a result, human response and digital resource accessibility are increasingly critical factors of the user experience. This study provides an analytical examination of the current state of agricultural library management in India, as well as practical recommendations for enhancing library services in similar organisations.