Evaluation of ICT competence of public librarians in Karnataka for digital transformation of libraries

The study aims to evaluate the ICT competence of Karnataka public librarians for the digital transformation of public libraries. This survey research indicates the status of ICT infrastructure, library automa tion, and use of ICT tools among public librarians in Karnataka. The findings revealed that most libraries provide computer and internet facilities. However, a small percentage of libraries have other ICT infrastruc tural facilities such as printers, scanners, and barcode readers. The study also indicates that the majority of the librarians have knowledge of basic ICT tools but do not have knowledge of advanced tools. Similarly, most of the librarians have basic knowledge of library automation tools but do not have much knowledge of the library automation process. They also lack knowledge of various library-related ICT tools, and only a few librarians are experts in using them. The findings of this study will provide significant information to improve the ICT competence of public librarians in Karnataka and thereby fulfil community digital information needs. It also showcases current trends in ICT infrastructure and offers valuable insights for policymakers and librarians by highlighting future requirements.