The Role of the Library in Social Transformation in the 21St Century: With Special Reference to R.B. Narayanrao Borawake College, Shrirampur
Keywords:
Academic library, social transformation, information literacy, digital inclusion, NEP 2020, community engagement, NAACAbstract
In the 21st century, libraries have emerged as transformative institutions that extend far beyond their traditional role as repositories of books. They function as inclusive learning spaces, digital access points, and community knowledge centers that actively contribute to social transformation. Academic libraries, particularly in rural and semi-urban regions, play a critical role in bridging educational, digital, and social divides by ensuring equitable access to information and fostering lifelong learning. This paper examines the evolving role of academic libraries in social transformation with special reference to R.B. Narayanrao Borawake College, Shrirampur. It analyzes how library services such as automation, access to digital resources, information literacy initiatives, and community engagement contribute to educational equity, employability, research culture, and civic responsibility. The study adopts a descriptive and analytical methodology based on secondary data and institutional practices. The paper also aligns the role of libraries with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and global library development frameworks. The findings highlight that the college library acts as a catalyst for social change by empowering students, supporting first-generation learners, and strengthening the institution–society interface.
Downloads
References
Association of College and Research Libraries. (2015). Framework for information literacy for higher education. American Library Association. International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions. (2013). IFLA statement on libraries and development. IFLA. International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions. (2022). IFLA–UNESCO public library manifesto 2022. UNESCO. Ministry of Education, Government of India. (2020). National Education Policy 2020. Government of India. Vårheim, A. (2014). Trust in libraries and trust in most people: Social capital creation in the public library. The Library Quarterly, 84(3), 258–277. Aabø, S. (2010). How do public libraries function as meet places? Library & Information Science Research, 32(1), 16–26. Buschman, J. (2023). Libraries, democracy, and social responsibility. The Library Quarterly, 94(1), 1–15. National Digital Library of India. (n.d.). About NDLI. Ministry of Education, Government of India. SWAYAM. (n.d.). Study Webs of Active Learning for Young Aspiring Minds. Ministry of Education, Government of India. NPTEL. (n.d.). National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning. IITs & IISc, India.
