Analysis of Uploaded E-content of the European National Libraries’ Websites

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Gupta, M.

Affiliations: Librarian, Maharaja Agrasen P G College for Women, Jhajjar, Haryana – 124103 (E): [email protected]

Abstract: It has been well established, information makes a noteworthy contribution in the development of a nation. Information is used in each and every sphere of human life, thus collectively has a marked significance to a nation. Everyone desires to access information from their desk on 24×7 basis. In this regard, websites play a major role in facilitating both access and dissemination of the information. If the information content of a website is not able to fulfil information needs of its web users, then, these users are highly likely to switch over from that website. The article discusses a study that attempts to evaluate uploaded e-content on the selectedwebsites of European national libraries on the basis of check points, largely based on review of literature and published guidelines. Analysis of data shows that most of the selected European national libraries uploaded introductory information, information about collection, and services, on their websites. A website for the national library is highly considered by most of the European countries. They prefer to upload maximum information pertaining to products and services offered by the librariesof national repute. However, still there is a need to revise or update their content on the website on regular basis. In this regard, the study being discussed had strongly suggested that the national libraries should ideally provide access to each piece of information through their websites. In addition, libraries should provide online access to their resources and services in a comprehensive manner. National libraries should develop their websites in such a way that these websites could provide services of reference librarians.

Keywords: National library, Content analysis, Website evaluation, European national libraries

DOI: 10.18329/09757597/2022/15209

Journal: World Digital Libraries - An international journal, vol. 15, no. 2, pp. 137-150, 2022