Abstract Several studies using surveys on various aspects of library issues have been carried out by the author with the aim of using the findings to develop the existing scenario. Methodologies included different means of collection of data including questionnaire. This paper focuses on the use of questionnaire to collect data and compare the effectiveness of the hardcopy verses the online in a university... Several studies using surveys on various aspects of library issues have been carried out by the author with the aim of using the findings to develop the existing scenario. Methodologies included different means of collection of data including questionnaire. This paper focuses on the use of questionnaire to collect data and compare the effectiveness of the hardcopy verses the online in a university setting in Sri Lanka and Brunei Darussalam. The author’s experience in using both modes of administering the questionnaire and the concern about inadequacy of the response rate to the online survey are discussed. The article aims to highlight the usefulness of improving the practice of online survey method in the university setting and to suggest means of developing the evaluation strategy Read More Read Less

Abstract In 2004 Tsunami struck the coastal areas of Sri Lanka, destroying millions of property and displacing over half a million people. Due to the Tsunami 65 public libraries in coastal area were damaged. The government of Sri Lanka and nongovernmental associations had launched several rehabilitation projects to recover the infrastructure facilities in affected libraries. But, some of the development strategies in these projects... In 2004 Tsunami struck the coastal areas of Sri Lanka, destroying millions of property and displacing over half a million people. Due to the Tsunami 65 public libraries in coastal area were damaged. The government of Sri Lanka and nongovernmental associations had launched several rehabilitation projects to recover the infrastructure facilities in affected libraries. But, some of the development strategies in these projects are debatable. Though there was lot of reconstructed projects operated to facilitate the tsunami affected public libraries in south coastal areas, there are no sufficient computer facilities provided for them. Main objective of the research was to identify the availability of computer facilities among tsunami reconstructed public libraries in Sri Lanka. The data for the study gathered from the total population of tsunami affected public libraries in south coastal area in the island. Research indicates that majority of the sample didn’t have computer facilities to carry out library services related work. There were many issues identified as causes for this situation. Solutions recommended for this problem are, need sufficient computer facilities for libraries, government should take policy decision to develop the infrastructures of Tsunami reconstructed libraries and need a policy initiative to maximize ICT applications in libraries. Read More Read Less

Abstract This research attempts to study information needs of the undergraduates in Visual & Performing Arts. The study was done based on the University of Visual & Performing Arts, Sri Lanka.According to the study, information need in preparation of examinations is the most important subjective information need of the undergraduates. They needed more practical oriented subject related information for their creations. Information in existing... This research attempts to study information needs of the undergraduates in Visual & Performing Arts. The study was done based on the University of Visual & Performing Arts, Sri Lanka.According to the study, information need in preparation of examinations is the most important subjective information need of the undergraduates. They needed more practical oriented subject related information for their creations. Information in existing creative works of national and international were found as important need. The study reveals that undergraduates are facing different challenges such as language barriers, lack of relevant information sources, and lack of time to seek information while they fulfil their information needs Read More Read Less

Abstract This paper examines the usage of Dspace software in Indian and Sri Lankan Institutions. The data for the study has been collected from the website of respective institutions. A total of 100031 collections were contributed by the Indian institutions and 37317 collections were contributed by the Sri Lankan Institutions. The study also further analyzed the Communities and Sub Communities, Contribution of authors etc.... This paper examines the usage of Dspace software in Indian and Sri Lankan Institutions. The data for the study has been collected from the website of respective institutions. A total of 100031 collections were contributed by the Indian institutions and 37317 collections were contributed by the Sri Lankan Institutions. The study also further analyzed the Communities and Sub Communities, Contribution of authors etc. Read More Read Less