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Stream/Area:
-
Subject:
-
Paper ID:
IJSREM67881
Volume:
10 |
10 |
Oct 2026
Pages:
1-8
Publication Frequency:
Monthly (12 issues per year)
License:International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management follows the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 (CC BY 4.0) License, allowing free use and distribution with proper attribution.
Library and Information Science
University of Lucknow
Professor, Department of Library and Information Science
, University of Lucknow, India
Electronic Transformation of libraries has changed the paradigm of physical possession to Electronic Information Resources (EIRs) and hence there is a global need to evaluate the availability and the use of libraries. This paper examines the degree of EIR availability, usage models and the issues that hinder its use in developed and developing areas. The method of purposive sampling was employed to be able to have a representation of both a developed and the developing continents in order to compare the data, data were obtained based on a systematic literature review and a survey of 150 librarians as well as 200 users (N= 350) in four Continents; America, Europe, Asia and Africa in terms of the number of public, academic and special libraries. The results indicate that there are statistically significant differences in access; 90% of libraries in America and Europe are reporting comprehensive access to proprietary databases however only 40% of African libraries are also reporting appropriate access levels (X2=45.32, p<0.01). Moreover, EIRs are used by 75% of users in the developed areas, as opposed to 45% in the developing ones (Asia), and Chi-square analysis reveals that there is a strong positive relationship between digital literacy and effective use (X2=30.15, p<0.05). A lack of infrastructure and lack of funds were pointed out as the most significant obstacles. The results of the study concluded that although EIRs provide a significant improvement in efficiency of research, there is no end to digital divide limiting their effectiveness on a global scale. The suggestions are strategic investment in digital infrastructure, priority of funding to open-access initiatives, and carrying out holistic training programs concerning digital literacy so that the information can be equally available to all.
KEYWORDS
The Electronic Information Resources (EIRs) have become an inseparable part of the work of the contemporary libraries, providing access to information in a way never been seen before, and contributing to the research and schooling process worldwide. This paper has established that although EIRs are effective in helping researchers to improve their efficiency and results, the current digital divide limits the extent of their potential. Inequality in infrastructure, financing, and digital access results in a hierarchical system of access, which benefits those areas that are well developed. The statistical evidence has the validity that geographical area and literacy rates are influential predictors of the use of EIR. To achieve maximum advantages of EIRs and create a more open global knowledge society, united efforts are necessary of all parties involved.
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Publication Date
10/12/2026
Peer Review Type
Double-Blind Peer Review
Review Rounds: 2
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