Introduction
The term “resource sharing” refers to the practice of libraries or information centers working together to share their resources with each other. These resources can include books, journals, databases, staff expertise, and even technology. The main idea behind resource sharing is to make more resources available to users, without each library having to own everything individually.
Meaning of Resource Sharing
Resource sharing is a cooperative arrangement between libraries to provide access to materials and services that are not available in one’s own library. Through this collaboration, libraries can offer better services, reduce costs, and meet the diverse information needs of their users.
Need for Resource Sharing
There are several reasons why resource sharing is necessary, especially in the field of library and information science. Here are the key needs:
1. Limited Budget
Most libraries have limited financial resources. They cannot afford to purchase all the materials required by their users. By sharing resources, they can reduce expenses and still provide access to a wide range of materials.
2. Increasing Cost of Publications
The cost of books, journals, and digital resources is rising rapidly. It is not possible for a single library to subscribe to all useful materials. Resource sharing helps libraries overcome this challenge.
3. Growing Demand for Information
With the growth of education and research, users demand more information than ever before. Resource sharing helps libraries meet these increasing demands effectively.
4. Technological Advancements
The development of information and communication technology has made it easier to share digital resources. Libraries can now share e-books, e-journals, and databases more efficiently.
5. Avoiding Duplication
When libraries share their holdings, they can avoid buying duplicate copies of the same resource. This saves money and storage space.
Objectives of Resource Sharing
Resource sharing is done with several important goals in mind. Below are some of the major objectives:
1. Maximizing Use of Available Resources
By sharing, libraries can ensure that their resources are used to the fullest extent. This prevents wastage of materials that might otherwise remain unused.
2. Providing Better Services to Users
Libraries aim to satisfy the information needs of users. Through resource sharing, they can provide access to materials they do not own themselves.
3. Reducing Costs
Resource sharing helps in cutting down the costs involved in purchasing, cataloging, and maintaining library materials. Cooperative acquisition and cataloging can be very cost-effective.
4. Promoting Cooperation
It builds a sense of cooperation and mutual support among libraries. This teamwork is beneficial for the development of library services as a whole.
5. Enhancing Access to Rare Materials
Some libraries may have rare or unique resources. Through resource sharing, these materials can be accessed by other libraries and their users.
6. Supporting Research and Education
Academic and research libraries, in particular, benefit from resource sharing as it supports students and researchers in accessing a variety of sources and materials.
Conclusion
Resource sharing is an essential practice in modern library services. It helps in overcoming financial and material limitations while ensuring that users have access to the best possible resources. With technological progress and the spirit of cooperation, resource sharing has become easier and more effective, making libraries stronger together.