Indigenous database development in Indian research and development library and information centres

Abstract

Purpose

The present paper aims to study the development of indigenous databases and their benefits for library users in libraries and information centers in the research and development institutions of the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research of North India and to discuss the role of indigenous databases, their development and impact.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a survey methodology. Data were collected through a detailed questionnaire, together with interviews, and analyzed by dividing the concepts into themes, such as: factors responsible for developing indigenous databases; perceptions and attitude of librarians regarding indigenous databases; database forms and formats; database development from a national perspective; database maintenance, services and marketing.

Findings

The findings reveal that indigenous database development is currently taking place and it has future potential. Librarians have positive attitudes towards the different aspects of indigenous databases, as library information products/services. The study recommends that efforts be made to increase user‐awareness and to create a broader knowledge resource. Instead of scattered approaches and different styles, a coherent approach needs to be taken.

Research limitations/implications

Only North Indian laboratories have been surveyed, so the study does not provide a complete picture of indigenous science and technology (S&T) databases.

Practical implications

The study is a useful source of information about the development of indigenous databases in the Indian S&T environment.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils an identified information/resource need and provides information about the current development of indigenous databases in India.

Citation

Kanaujia Sukula, S. (2005), "Indigenous database development in Indian research and development library and information centres", Online Information Review, Vol. 29 No. 2, pp. 193-207. https://doi.org/10.1108/14684520510598057