A study of library co- operation for the success of the national library of Sri Lanka

Abstract

Co-operation is an essential factor for the success of any institution. It is regarded that library co-operation is necessary in providing a good service to the readers. Library co-operation is achieved through collaboration and exchange. The objectives of the study are to examine the present status of library co operation of the national library and to study the areas of library co-operation that . the national library can engage m. The responsibility of the library is to safeguard a total collection of printed and non printed material for the use of the future generation .A collection of weeded resources also should be kept under the protection of the national library. It plays an important role in the library sector, as a depository and also as a clearing house for national publications. Apart from these function, it compiles bibliographical tools such as indexes, various bibliographies, directories and abstracts. Development and maintenance of the national union catalogue is also done by the national library. One of the critical issues faced by the national library in developing countries is the lack of the library co-operation. The other crucial issue is the curtailment of funds by the government and donor agencies. The above factors hinder the national library development. It in found that library co-operation is not up to the standard in developing countries including Sri Lanka. Suggestions are made that the national library should take the leadership role in library co-operation. It is also recommended that further studies should be carried out in such areas as inter library loans, co-operative acquisition, cataloging, training and development.