The document describes the objectives and functions of the Information and Library Network (INFLIBNET), which promotes the computerization of libraries in India and fosters collaboration among academic institutions. Key services include the e-shodhsindhu digital library consortium, the e-pgpathshala platform for postgraduate education, and various databases that enhance access to resources. INFLIBNET also supports library automation, conducts training, and engages in research output measurement to improve library services across the country.

1. Information and Library Network Centre
Chiranjibi Behera
Lecturer in Education
Deogarh College, Deogarh, Odisha, India

2. Introduction
• An autonomous IUC of UGC: It is an Autonomous Inter-
University Centre (IUC) of University Grants Commission, New
Delhi (Ministry of Education, Govt. of India).
• Headquarter in Gujarat University campus.
• Estd. in 1991
• Started as a project under The Inter-University Centre for
Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA).
• It became an interdependent IUC in 1996

3. Objective and Functions
• To Promote and Implement Computerization: INFLIBNET aims to enhance the
efficiency of library operations by promoting computerization across libraries and
information centers in India, ensuring that all follow uniform standards for better
service delivery.
• To Evolve Standards and Uniform Guidelines: The organization seeks to develop
consistent guidelines and standards for library practices, including techniques,
procedures, and technology use. This helps libraries share resources.
• To Provide Reliable Access to Document Collection of Libraries: INFLIBNET focuses
on creating an online union catalog that allows users to access a wide range of
documents, including books, theses, and non-book materials from various libraries in
India.
• To Provide Access to Bibliographic Information Sources: The initiative aims to
improve access to bibliographic databases, offering citations and abstracts through a
network of information centers. This includes establishing gateways for accessing both
national and international databases.
• To Develop New Methods and Techniques for Archival: INFLIBNET is committed to
innovating archival methods for preserving valuable information, particularly
manuscripts in different Indian languages, using digital technology.

4. Objective and Functions
• To Facilitate Academic Communication: INFLIBNET aims to enhance communication
among scientists, engineers, social scientists, academics, and students through various
electronic means like email, file transfers, and video conferencing. This helps in sharing
knowledge and collaborating on research projects effectively.
• To Establish Control and Monitoring Systems: INFLIBNET works on setting up effective
control and monitoring systems for its communication networks. This includes organizing
regular maintenance to ensure that the network operates smoothly and efficiently.
• To Collaborate with Institutions: Collaboration is a key objective for INFLIBNET. It seeks
to work with various institutions, libraries, information centers, and organizations both
within India and internationally to enhance the sharing of resources and knowledge.
• To Generate Revenue: INFLIBNET aims to create revenue streams by offering
consultancy services and information services. This financial support is crucial for
sustaining its operations and expanding its initiatives in the academic community.
• To Create Databases of Projects, Institutions, Specialists, Etc.: INFLIBNET aims to
establish comprehensive databases that provide online information about various
projects, institutions, and specialists in the field of library and information science.

5. Key Products and Services of INFLIBNET
• e-Consortium: This is a collaborative platform that provides access to a wide range of electronic
resources, including journals and databases, to universities and colleges across India,
enhancing research and academic communication.
• UGC-INFONET DLC (Merged as e-ShodhSindhu): Originally a digital library consortium, it has
merged into e-ShodhSindhu, which offers access to thousands of academic journals and other
scholarly resources for institutions under the UGC.
• N-LIST Program (Merged as e-ShodhSindhu): This program was designed to provide access to
electronic resources for colleges, which has now been integrated into e-ShodhSindhu, allowing
greater resource availability for educational institutions.
• INDEST-AICTE (Merged as e-ShodhSindhu): This initiative aimed at providing access to
electronic resources for technical institutions has also merged into e-ShodhSindhu, further
expanding the pool of available resources.
• e-PGPathshala: An online platform offering high-quality content for postgraduate education
across various subjects. It provides learning resources that support academic curricula.
• IndCat Union Database: A comprehensive online catalog that combines bibliographic
information from major university libraries in India. It helps users locate books, theses, and
journals available in these libraries.
• Open Access Initiative: This initiative promotes free access to scholarly articles and
research outputs, enabling wider dissemination of knowledge without financial barriers.

6. Key Products and Services of INFLIBNET
• INFOPORT: A digital repository that provides access to various information resources and
services related to library and information science.
• IR@INFLIBNET: An institutional repository that collects, preserves, and disseminates the
scholarly output of INFLIBNET's affiliated institutions, making research accessible to the
public.
• The Open Journal Access System (OJAS) : This service supports the management of library
operations by providing tools for cataloging and resource management.
• Shodhganga: An online repository of Indian theses and dissertations, allowing users to
access research conducted by students across various disciplines in Indian universities.
• Shodhgangotri: A platform that provides information about ongoing research projects in
Indian universities, helping researchers connect and collaborate.
• Research Project: INFLIBNET undertakes various research projects aimed at improving
library services and information access across India.
• SOUL (Software for University Libraries): A library management software developed by
INFLIBNET to automate library operations and improve service efficiency in university
libraries.
• Vidwan Database: A database of experts in various fields of study in India. It helps connect
researchers with specialists for collaboration and knowledge sharing.

7. Scientific and Technical Activities
Automation of University Libraries:
Supported automation for 142 universities during the IX Plan and 24
during the XI/XII Plans with training and software.
Software Development: Developed tools like Online Copy Catalogue
System (OCS) for cooperative cataloging among libraries.
E-resources Access Initiatives: Initiatives like Shodhganga (theses
repository) and OJAS (open access journal platform) enhance research
visibility.
Human Resource Development: Conducts training programs on
library automation, resource management, and information technology
to support library staff and researchers.
Publications and Research Output Measurement :Engages in
bibliometric studies to measure research output from Indian
universities, contributing to national academic assessments.