An e-library or electronic library is a digital platform that allows users to access various collections of electronic resources including books, journals, articles and multimedia materials. Unlike a traditional library which stores books and other physical objects. Using digital technologies, e-libraries empower users to automatically access or read and sometimes download digital materials using electronic devices such as computers, tablets and smartphones. They play a vital role in supporting academic research and facilitating leisure reading in the digital age. Educational institutions have increasingly adopted e-libraries as part of their programs to provide efficient and comprehensive information.
E-libraries bring many benefits to users providing a wide range of content and unlimited access without fixed opening and closing times. These libraries accommodate multiple simultaneous users and enable real-time communications. Moreover, they help preserve knowledge for future generations. Digital formats such as e-books, audiobooks and video on demand allow individuals to engage with library resources at their own pace and convenience accessing them from any location 24/7.
In the increasing era of digitisation, government agencies and PSUs in India are adopting e-libraries to improve access to information, safeguard sustainability and with the state of technology growing have met for effective and efficient governance. Various areas such as knowledge retention, distance learning and identification of technological advances. An overall of 1331 e-library tenders have been issued by 227 government organizations throughout distinctive states in India at some point in 2023, with Haryana (664 tenders), Karnataka (129 tenders)and Delhi (59 tenders) emerging because the top 3 states in terms of e-library procurement.
An overall of 78 digital library tenders were launched with the aid of the education branch with the intention of improving assets, assisting education and fostering the incorporation of progressive coaching and mastering techniques within schools and colleges. These tenders underscore the important role played by way of digital libraries in molding a modern and era-driven educational environment. For instance, the West Bengal Department of Higher Education launched tenders for a three-year e-library package and a 2-year Springer 3 challenge collection. Similarly, the Gujarat Education Department published a tender for the procurement of a digital library.
Several state government entities released numerous tenders to create e-libraries in the public domain aiming to democratize access to information and advance digital inclusion. Thereby contributing to the comprehensive development and empowerment of their citizens. As an illustration, the Haryana Government issued tenders for the construction of a library building and e-library in the village of Ahirka in the district of Jind. Likewise, the Rajasthan State Government Department published tenders for the establishment of an e-library.
The health department released several tenders for e-libraries aiming to improve information access, support research and education. To enhance clinical decision-making and the overall efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare departments. These e-libraries serve as valuable tools in the dynamic and evolving landscape of healthcare services and medical knowledge. As an illustration, the Health Family Welfare Department in Himachal Pradesh issued tenders for the implementation, customization, training and support services of an e-library.
The widespread interest in e-libraries is evident through the issuance of 219 library automation tenders by various government agencies. The pivotal position of library automation services in organising and retaining e-libraries contributes to the efficient management and accessibility of digital resources. Institutions can establish e-libraries to make contributions to the overall development of disseminating virtual know-how. To illustrate, the Jammu and Kashmir Higher Education branch issued tenders for AMC for library management software automation. While the Directorate of Higher Secondary Education (DHSE) in Kerala published tenders for library automation.
Furthermore, approximately 50 tenders were released with the specific objective of acquiring library automation services particularly leveraging RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) technology. Within library automation RFID is predominantly employed to optimize the effectiveness of library management, circulation processes and security measures. RFID systems offer an ideal solution for monitoring the inventory as well as tracking the issuance and return status of books and other items within the library. Additionally, they play a crucial role in ensuring the security of the library and preventing theft of valuable resources. As an illustration, IA in Delhi released tenders for the implementation of a library management solution incorporating RFID-based technology. Likewise, Maharashtra National Law University in Aurangabad published tenders for the procurement installation and commissioning of Library Automation using RFID Technology.
Moreover, different government agencies released tenders for establishing e-libraries in diverse locations and for various purposes. For example, the Public Works Department (PWD) in Jammu and Kashmir issued tenders for the construction of a smart Library inside the community Hall at Hira Nagar (Electric Part). Also, Haryana Police advertised tenders for e-library books specifically for competitive exam preparation with a pack of 240 books (UPSC, HPSC, CGL).
Several government agencies released tenders for procuring Library Management Software (LMS), which acts as a comprehensive solution for organizing, supervising and automating various tasks within a library setting. Through the automation of processes, enhancement of user experiences and provision of valuable insights. Library Management Software contributes to the general performance of library operations. An example of this tenders issued by the Karnataka Department of Personnel Administrative Reforms for library control software program. Similarly, Shreetron India Limited in Uttar Pradesh published tenders for an e-library management system.
As of February 06, 2024, there are 30 active e library tenders issued through various government organizations in India. Karnataka has five tenders at 17%, while Delhi and Haryana jointly offer five tenders at the same percent. Maharashtra, West Bengal, and Jammu and Kashmir have advertised 4 tenders each.
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The live tenders highlight the strong and widespread interest for e-libraries in the various states of India. The geographic diversity of these tenders reflects a collective dedication to embracing technology and acquiring knowledge within the virtual age. It is therefore advisable that companies specializing in library automation and e-library installation services actively monitor and participate in relevant tender opportunities.
