Utilisation of public library services in the digital era: A case study of the district Central Library, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu

AbstractThis study evaluates the use of public library services in the digital era, focusing on the District Central Library, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India. Public libraries serve as critical institutions in addressing inequities in access to digital resources, offering technology and educational programs to promote digital literacy. The research adopts a mixed-methods approach, including surveys, observations, and interviews, to assess the effectiveness of the library’s services. Findings reveal significant contributions of the library in providing equitable access to information and technology while identifying challenges such as limited resource availability and user engagement. The study shows the importance of targeted outreach, community awareness initiatives, and continuous investment in staff training and technology upgrades to enhance digital inclusion. The analysis focuses on user satisfaction, barriers to technology access, and opportunities for improving library services, advocating for libraries as pivotal hubs for community development and digital empowerment.