Expectations of distance learners about library services at the study centers of the universities in Kerala: A study

Abstract

This study aims at identifying the various kinds of library and information services that the distance learners in the four universities in Kerala expect through the study centers, and to make an assessment of the present state of affairs. The services that the learners would like to have, in order to support their academic activities and the expected level o f each were collected through a survey among a sample of 650 students. Both undergraduate and postgraduate learners are included in the sample. The students expect the study centers to provide a good collection of documents for reading and reference, cordial and helpful staff, convenient library timings, collection of question papers of previous examinations, collection of reserve materials and orientation programmes. It is found that majority o f the students has access to the study centers and they need an average of one hour journey time to reach their nearest study centres. But the library facility provided in these study centers at present is bare minimum. The findings of the study project the need for improving library services to the distance learners in Kerala.