Abstract:
For the last twenty five years Sri Lanka has been using distance education
method as a teaching method of various subjects. The OUSL and its
library system started in 1980.
For the last twenty years OUSL library system has been serving distance
education learners in various ways. But no evaluation has been done for
the past 20 years to test its effectiveness. The main objective of the present
study was to find out the nature and extent of use of libraries and to
compare it with that of NIE.
To achieve this objective, two sample groups were used. Group 1, Degree
and diploma students OUSL in level three and above. Group 2, NIE
students in Primary, Diploma and special training courses. The sample
included 350 from OUSL and 200 from NIE selected according to the
percentage of the number of students registered at the selected centers.
Questionnaire and interview were the instruments used to collect data for
the study.
Literature on the use of libraries and problems of usage was reviewed and
found that library services are essential for Distance Learning.
According to the findings majority of both groups see great value in using
libraries for studying. Analysis showed significant difference in usage of
center libraries by the two groups. The main reason for this was found to
be lack of materials available at the centers.
The study indicated that development of libraries with additional text
materials and its services will effect the studies of the students. It thus leads
to the conclusion that library services for distance learners are essential at
any level and for any subject.
