Digital library of statistical information for science and technology personnel in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Digital Library is a popular concept in the West. It is considered as an efficient tool for improving access to information. This study has made an attempt to justify the need for a digital library on Statistical Information for Science and Technology Personnel in Sri Lanka. The possibility for a Digital Library of Statistical Information to be sustainable was justified with the data on availability of infrastructure and enthusiasm of prospective patrons. At the same time, actual user needs and preferred presentation formats were identified. The research tool was a survey. Seventy five per cent of the sample think statistical information is very significant in their routine work. But they believe that such information is difficult to find. It was revealed that Internet is 387 times efficient in retrieving information than Books. This demonstrates the possibility of building up an Internet based information source. Seventy nine per cent of the sample had access to Internet at office. Therefore having access to an Internet based Digital Library is not a problem for Science and Technology Personnel in Sri Lanka. More information related to agriculture should be included. The first level of data should be presented as abstracts. Science and Technology Personnel in Sri Lanka think of Digital Libraries positively. They are even willing to pay for information. Thus, a Digital Library Project would find its audience in Sri Lanka.