Digitalization of Library Services and Its Benefits to the Students of the University of Ruhuna During Crisis Periods

Abstract

This study examines the digitalization of library services at the University of Ruhuna in Sri Lanka and its impact on students during crisis periods. The University of Ruhuna's digital library services encompass varied services and this study emphasizes the value of digital libraries in maintaining academic continuity and improving learning outcomes, particularly in times of emergency like the COVID-19 pandemic. The main objective of this study was to assess the effects of digitalization on University of Ruhuna library services during times of crisis and to identify the requirement of preparing a library marketing plan. Data collection was done by distributing a Google form consisting close ended questions among the undergraduate students of University of Ruhuna. The findings of this survey highlighted the lack of awareness of the students about digital library services. Moreover, students who benefited from those services showed a high level of satisfaction. The study also highlights that a significant proportion of the students did not fully access those services, even during the pandemic and economic crisis periods. The study's findings emphasize the importance of promoting digital library services and broadening students' awareness in order to maximize the benefits of those services. It involves modifying outreach programs to fit student preferences and bridging the gap between the availability of resources and their efficient use.