Role of the National Library of Sri Lanka in the Use of Information Technology for Library and Information System Development

Role of the National Library of Sri Lanka in the Use of Information Technology for Library and Information System Development

The establishment of the National Library of Sri Lanka marks a major milestone in the country’s library and information services landscape. In an era where information technology (IT) is reshaping global library systems, the National Library plays a crucial role in guiding modernization, coordination, and digital transformation across all types of libraries in Sri Lanka.

This article explores the role of the National Library of Sri Lanka in adopting information technology, the current state of library automation in the country, and future strategies for building a strong national information infrastructure.

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction

  2. Core Functions of the National Library

  3. Key Roles of a National Library in Information Systems

  4. Impact of Information Technology on Libraries

  5. Library Automation in Sri Lanka

  6. Major Library and Information Systems in Sri Lanka

  7. Role of the National Library in IT Development

  8. Proposed Information Technology Framework (NITCOM & IT Division)

  9. Future Digital Library Services

  10. Conclusion


1. Introduction

The National Library of Sri Lanka fulfills a long-standing national need for a central institution that coordinates library development. In a rapidly evolving digital environment, the absence of strong leadership in library automation and information systems can limit national progress.

Modern libraries are no longer just repositories of books—they are dynamic information hubs powered by technology. The National Library must therefore act as the guiding authority for selecting, adopting, and implementing information technology across the country’s library network.


2. Core Functions of the National Library

A National Library performs multiple roles depending on national needs and existing library infrastructure. These generally include:

  • Preservation of national publications

  • Bibliographic control and documentation

  • Information access and reference services

  • Library coordination and development

In developing countries like Sri Lanka, the emphasis is often on resource sharing and reducing duplication of effort across institutions.


3. Key Roles of a National Library in Information Systems

a. National Repository

The National Library collects and preserves the country’s published heritage, including:

  • Books and journals

  • Maps and photographs

  • Audio-visual materials

  • Digital and non-print resources

This ensures long-term preservation and easy access for research and reference.

b. National Bibliographic Centre

One of the most important functions is bibliographic control. This includes:

  • Compiling the national bibliography

  • Assigning identification numbers to publications

  • Creating indexes and subject bibliographies

  • Maintaining documentation of national intellectual output

c. National Information Centre

In some countries, the National Library also acts as a gateway to foreign information resources. It:

  • Provides access to international publications

  • Acts as a referral center for specialized queries

  • Supports subject-specific information systems

d. Cataloguing Centre

The National Library supports other libraries through:

  • Centralized cataloguing

  • Cooperative union catalogues

This improves standardization and efficiency across the library network.

e. Policy-Making Body

A strong national library helps shape:

  • Library development policies

  • Resource distribution strategies

  • National information infrastructure planning

f. Standardization Authority

It ensures uniform standards in:

  • Cataloguing formats

  • Classification systems

  • Metadata and bibliographic exchange

g. Library Service Bureau

The National Library also provides technical services such as:

  • Training library staff

  • Reprographic services

  • Translation support

  • Preservation and conservation assistance

h. Coordination Centre

It facilitates cooperation among libraries through:

  • Inter-library loan systems

  • Resource sharing programs

  • National and international document exchange


4. Impact of Information Technology on Libraries

Information technology has transformed library operations worldwide. Key changes include:

  • Digital access to remote databases

  • Electronic document delivery

  • Automated cataloguing systems

  • Improved storage and retrieval of information

However, technology must be carefully selected to ensure compatibility and long-term sustainability.


5. Library Automation in Sri Lanka

Library automation in Sri Lanka developed gradually. Key milestones include:

  • Introduction of computer systems in the 1960s

  • Growth of computing in government institutions in the 1980s

  • Expansion of bibliographic databases in academic libraries

A major breakthrough came with the use of microcomputers and CDS/ISIS software, which enabled many libraries to begin automation without high costs.


6. Major Library and Information Systems in Sri Lanka

Several institutions have developed specialized digital systems:

  • MARGA Institute – Development information networks

  • National Institute of Education (NIE) – Education databases

  • CISIR – Scientific research databases and LAN systems

  • Sri Lanka Standards Institute (SLSI) – Online standards access system

  • Coconut Research Institute (CRI) – Agricultural information systems

  • Business Development Centres – Online international database access

These systems demonstrate growing national capacity in digital information management.


7. Role of the National Library in IT Development

The National Library of Sri Lanka is expected to become the central authority for library automation and digital transformation.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Formulating national IT policies for libraries

  • Standardizing bibliographic data formats

  • Training library professionals in IT skills

  • Developing software solutions for library management

  • Creating national databases

  • Providing online and digital reference services

Without centralized leadership, library systems risk becoming fragmented and incompatible.


8. Proposed Information Technology Framework

a. National Information Technology Committee (NITCOM)

A proposed committee to guide national library IT development, including representatives from:

  • Library associations

  • Telecommunications sector

  • Technology agencies

  • Research institutions

Key functions:

  • National IT policy formulation for libraries

  • Development of bibliographic standards

  • Planning training programs

  • Coordination of automation initiatives

b. Information Technology Division

A dedicated IT division within the National Library would handle:

  • Database creation and management

  • Library automation systems

  • Digital cataloguing and indexing

  • Online services and networks

  • CD-ROM and digital access systems

  • Facsimile and electronic communication networks

This division would act as the operational backbone of digital library services.


9. Future Digital Library Services

The National Library can expand into advanced digital services such as:

  • Sri Lanka National Bibliography (SLNB) online access

  • National Union Catalogue (SLNUC) digital integration

  • Remote cataloguing support for libraries

  • National information portals

  • CD-ROM and online databases

  • Fax-based document delivery systems

These services will significantly improve national access to information.


10. Conclusion

The National Library of Sri Lanka has a critical role in shaping the future of the country’s library and information systems. In the age of digital transformation, its leadership in information technology is essential for building a unified and efficient national knowledge infrastructure.

By adopting modern technologies, strengthening coordination, and investing in skilled manpower, Sri Lanka’s library system can move directly into a digital future—leapfrogging traditional stages of development and aligning with global information standards.

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