Public libraries play a vital role in promoting knowledge dissemination, lifelong learning, and inclusive access to information for diverse user communities. The effectiveness of these libraries largely depends on the quality of services provided and the level of information accessibility available to users. This review-based paper examines the concepts of service quality and information accessibility in public libraries of Gujarat by analysing existing literature, policy documents, and related studies. The paper discusses key dimensions of service quality such as reliability, responsiveness, assurance, empathy, and tangibility in the context of public library services. It also highlights various aspects of information accessibility, including availability of print and digital resources, ICT infrastructure, internet facilities, and user-friendly services. The review further explores the structure of the public library system in Gujarat and identifies major challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, limited financial resources, shortage of trained staff, and digital divide issues affecting accessibility. The paper emphasizes the interrelationship between service quality and information accessibility in improving user satisfaction and library utilization. The study concludes that enhancing service quality and strengthening information accessibility are essential for modernizing public libraries in Gujarat and ensuring equitable access to information for all sections of society.
Karmur et al. (Thu,) studied this question.