IMPACT OF MODERN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY IN MEDICAL COLLEGE LIBRARIES

Information Technology is very useful for Medical College libraries in creating databases of their own and meeting them available to users through networks. It also enables Medical College libraries to provide effective and efficient services. Most of the library operations like book acquisition, circulation, office management, information services, etc. are inter-connected, inter-dependent and reciprocally supportive for overall management of library. The modern technologies, i.e. Information Technology gadgets which are convergent and highly relevant for application in modern library and information system can be grouped into four areas, as follows: 1. Computer Technology. 2. Communication Technology 3. Reprographic Technology 4. Printing Technology. The use and impact of ICTs is now visible in Indian library and information centers which may be due to the drastic reduction / escalation of the cost of hardware and software and their easy availability in the markets with service support from the suppliers or venders. Presently, librarians are playing an integrated role beyond their traditional job. In a rapid changing world, there are new demands and influences on libraries and information centers. Using modern technologies, libraries all over the world are now shifting their emphasis from traditional to multidimensional work force. As a corollary to this, LIS professionals are supposed to play versatile role in different areas of libraries and information centers to meet the expectations and needs of the present situation. LIS professionals act as legal representative when they deal with the issue relating to law such as copyright law, intellectual property right, etc. Librarian champion the cause of academic libraries through various advocacy programs to promote the library and resources. Today information can not only be stored, retrieved, disseminated in enormous quantities but also at phenomenal speeds. Information Technology opens and unprecedented opportunity in the way information is stored, retrieved, manipulated and exploited. Computers are now comprehensively used in the library operations and have great influnece in the management of libraries and information centers. Computer technology can be used in various fields of library activities.