PROFILE
OF CENTRAL LIBRARY
Our Library :
The library is the heart of any educational institution, and this holds
especially true for higher education. Committed to expanding students' access
to knowledge and information, our college has consistently prioritized the
growth and modernization of its library. Over time, the library has evolved to
keep pace with advancements in information technology, ensuring that students
and scholars receive the best possible resources and services.
Our undergraduate library supports students pursuing a three-year degree
and also provides specialized materials for advanced, postgraduate studies.
Beyond academic resources, the library offers reference books that contribute
to students' overall development. Given the vast and diverse range of
information formats in academic libraries, our college conducts orientation
programs for new students and faculty. These sessions help users navigate the
library efficiently, familiarize themselves with reference tools, and master
various search mechanisms to enhance their research experience.
Reading Room Facility
The college library is located in the eastern corner of the college building in a spacious first-floor room with a total carpet area of 288. 71 Sq. Mtrs. (Library 259.34Sq. Mt. + 3 Rooms 29.37 Sq. Mt. = 288.71 Sq. Mtrs.). The room is airy and well-ventilated. The access to the library is also very convenient. The stairs to the library are constructed in such a way that students may visit and leave the library without disturbing other lecture rooms of the college. The separate wing of the library provides students with a peaceful atmosphere.
The college and Campus management has successfully constructed a new Reading Room on the 1st floor, directly connected to the library. This spacious and well-equipped hall has been established to accommodate the increasing number of students who utilize the Library Reading Room for study purposes.
With the new reading room in place, students can now conveniently access both the library and the reading area side by side, enhancing their study experience and making the most of the available resources.
The
Library Treasure
Books
As
one of the oldest colleges in the region, our institution has thrived under the
leadership of visionary principals, dedicated administrators, and distinguished
faculty. Since its establishment in 1959, the college has continuously expanded
the library’s collection, now boasting 49,354 books and reference
materials across multiple disciplines.
Committed
to maintaining a high selection standard, the principal, librarian, and
department heads collaborate to enrich the library’s resources. In
line with Dr. S. R. Ranganathan’s fifth law of library
science—"The library is a growing organism"—we strive to provide
students with the latest and most relevant books. The library fully uses its
budget to update and diversify its collection.
To
enhance accessibility, a web catalog of the library’s holdings
is available on the GujCat/Inflibnet website, allowing students to search
for books and explore library resources with ease. Special emphasis is placed
on acquiring books and journals related to general knowledge,
personality development, career advancement, and competitive exam preparation,
ensuring students are well-prepared for today’s fast-paced world. Our priority
remains to offer the best sources of knowledge and learning to support
students' academic and professional growth.
Periodicals,
Journals, and Newspapers
The
library subscribes to 76 periodicals and journals, covering both
academic subjects and general-interest topics. Among them, 12 journals
focus on career guidance and competitive exams, helping students stay
informed about career opportunities and industry trends. Additionally, the
library provides access to 10 local and state-level newspapers,
keeping students and faculty updated on current affairs.
To
ensure timely availability, the librarian manages subscriptions efficiently,
making sure that magazines and journals reach students without delay. Newly
arrived issues are prominently displayed on magazine stands,
while current editions are available for reading in the
designated reading room. Archived issues are
carefully stored and can be borrowed by faculty and staff. This system ensures
that both students and educators benefit from a well-maintained collection of
periodicals.
Library
Computerization and Facilities
The
library is fully computerized, with all books cataloged in a digital
database for efficient access and management. It operates on SOUL
3.0 software from INFLIBNET, featuring an OPAC (Online Public
Access Catalog) that allows students to search for books by
title, author, or subject with ease. A dedicated computer terminal is
available for this purpose, equipped with both the OPAC system and
an English dictionary for quick reference.
To
further assist students, subject-related books are arranged
on stands in the OPAC area, categorized by class and discipline.
This system helps the librarian quickly locate books upon
request, ensuring prompt service. Additionally, the librarian not only assists
students in finding books but also trains them to use the OPAC system
independently.
Essential
reference materials, including encyclopedias, dictionaries, atlases,
and NET/SLET exam preparation books, are placed on open-access
racks near the librarian’s desk. While students are encouraged to use these
valuable resources, they must remain within the library.
The library
notice board serves as a key information center, displaying important
announcements, newly acquired journals and books, and special news updates,
including newspaper clippings. New arrivals are
prominently showcased, keeping students informed about the latest additions.
By
leveraging technology, the library ensures efficient service,
allowing students to access resources quickly and make the most of their study
time.
Library users can also search the Library Archives with this link
•
LIBRARY ADVISORY COMMITTEE :
The
college has a very healthy tradition of appointing members of the faculty as
members of the Library Advisory Committee every year. As the members change
from time to time, all the faculty members, senior as well as junior, get a
chance to be on the committee and contribute to the development of the library
and also can have the experience of managing the library. The library could
benefit from the expertise of different people.
The
library Advisory Committee meets from time to time to consider ways to enrich
the library and promote use of the library by students in a larger number.
Library
Committee Responsibilities
The Library
Committee plays a crucial role in ensuring the efficient management
and continuous improvement of the library. Its key responsibilities include:
- Annual Planning: Developing
a strategic plan for library activities and improvements
throughout the year.
- Student Engagement: Encouraging
students to actively use the library and fostering a
stronger interest in books and reading.
- Budget Allocation: Collaborating
with department heads and the Principal to allocate funds
for library resources in each discipline.
- Student Feedback & Issue
Resolution: Collecting student
feedback on library facilities and addressing any concerns that
arise.
- Enhancing User Experience: Ensuring
the library provides a comfortable, student-friendly environment that
meets academic needs.
- Discipline & Conduct: Taking
appropriate action against students who damage books, misuse
resources, or disrupt the reading room.
- Maintenance & Cleanliness: Ensuring
the library's infrastructure, furniture, and resources are
well-maintained and kept in good condition.
- Librarian Support: Addressing any issues or concerns raised by the librarian to enhance service efficiency.
The Library
Advisory Committee holds regular meetings to discuss
and implement these initiatives. In case of urgent matters, the committee
convenes emergency meetings to resolve issues promptly.
•
The Library Advisory Committee for the present academic year 2024/25 :
- Dr. K.D. Vaishnav I/C Principal
- Dr. Vallari H. Hathi, Librarian
(Coordinator)
- Dr. R.H. Parekh, Library in charge
- Dr. Z.B.J. Jani
- Dr. Komalben Ahir
- Dr. Rameshbhai Kalia
