Cloud Computing: An emerging technology used for library applications

This article discusses a study that explores the integration of cloud computing applications in library services at selected universities in India, emphasizing their role in enhancing resource sharing, cost efficiency, and collaborative engagement through consortiums. This study emphasizes a qualitative and mixed-method case study approach to investigate the extent and variety of cloud-based services offered by the libraries of Galgotias University, Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMTECH), and Gautam Buddha University, located in Greater Noida. Analysis reveals that Galgotias University leads in cloud adoption, offering 17 out of 18 identified cloud services, followed closely by BIMTECH with 16, and Gautam Buddha with 12. In terms of user-oriented services, Galgotias again provides 17 out of 20, BIMTECH offers 15, and Gautam Buddha 12. Common offerings across all include access to global journal articles, federated search engines, academic updates, and online databases. However, only Galgotias provides information on forthcoming publications. Functional use of cloud computing for cataloguing, LMS, and online access is uniform across all three institutions, while acquisition support and backup services vary. Galgotias and BIMTECH utilize cloud computing in six operational areas, compared to four at Gautam Buddha University. The findings highlight the role of cloud technologies in academic libraries to enhance service delivery, research support, and information accessibility.