Virtual Library — The Best Resource for Educational Continuity in 2020

In case you missed the information: “We believe though that the role of e-libraries extends beyond providing access to content.” — UNESCO

Everyone across the world- be it a prestigious organization like UNESCO, or educators handling MATs, or simply a student or faculty, everyone is appreciating the role of digital libraries.

At least, thought leaders & visionaries that aim to take the education level to the next level do.

Of course, digital transformation & the concept of using e-libraries to maintain continuity in education are relatively new. But their back story isn’t-

✔ Two decades ago, when some schools, colleges, and universities started using library automation software, it was not taken seriously by most of the educators. However, within the past five years, the utility of library software has risen tremendously.

✔ And at the present moment, billions of educational institutions are using the digital library platform to keep growing via providing the best e-content access to faculties & students.

So, what’s the reason for this sudden shift in content consumption behavior?

My team decided to find out, and after doing research on 1000s of educational institutions. Here are our prime observations that have allegedly made virtual library management systems the best resource of knowledge during the pandemic.

Reason #1: Matches the Criteria of Global Educational Policies

As you know the inception of the Covid-19 virus has converted the “happy-go-lucky” environment of schools to an “alienated” landscape, the global education sector has taken praiseworthy steps.

Steps that would be accountable for the upcoming generation’s online teaching-learning processes.

The point of mentioning these global education policies is that the authorities will be taking in-charge of 100% digital learning. At least till the pandemic if not more!

Here, e-library management software can help teachers & students like you to get access to quality e-books, journals, podcasts, audio-books, video tutorials, and a large variety of e-content remotely.

With the help of OPAC (Open Public Access Catalogue) that helps in a web search of books & M-OPAC (Mobile-Open Public Access Catalogue) — an app that runs on mobile phones and you can enter the gateway to numerous study materials & pave the way for best learning outcomes!

Reason #2: Multiple Choices of Books in Different e-formats

This is the most beneficial aspect of virtual library management systems.

It makes you make choices.

Okay, let me explain my point by quoting an example that most teachers and students would be able to relate to.

There was a time when you might have stood in long queues to issue books via your library. And you may not have the freedom to choose more than 3 or maybe 5 books at a time, right?

Well, the reason was limited resources. The total number of books in the library needed to be distributed among all the students and that’s why a limit was set. You may have missed out on important books sometimes.

There’s entirely a shift in this book issuing process of libraries as you get unlimited choices of downloading and reading the books on the digital platform.

Reason #3: Educational Heritage for Gen-Z without Any Damage

You may be aware of the historic fact of how precious books of the great Nalanda University were destroyed by invaders. It is said that the highly enriching & knowledgeable books that were stored in multi-storied buildings burned for approximately 3 months!

From this unfortunate incident, a couple of things are crystal clear –

A. The importance of books for a nation

B. Importance of keeping digital copies!

Therefore, with a digital library, you can be assured of no damage to the books! The digital copies may be deleted, but a smart backup of books can be made to avoid any mishap.

Reason #4: Minimal Requirements

You may be wondering what are the requirements of setting up a virtual library, let me put something very straight-

1. You won’t need tons of investment, the library management system is quite affordable
2. You need to use free & paid quality e-content to benefit your students
3. An active and strong internet connection!

That’s it.

Library automation over digital platforms is that easy-to-implement!

To Sum Up

These are our top reasons for recommending the library software. You can integrate it into your school ERP, college ERP or even in your university management software. It would surely be a great add-on.

Still, thinking?

A watched pot never boils!

Therefore, take the initiative of utilizing virtual libraries today! In case you need assistance with OPAC, M-OPAC, and e-library management software for schools, colleges, or universities, do get in touch with my team.