Abstract:
Grade I is the second-best type of libraries in the public library sector. The study
reports the observations of a review team on compliance of libraries to the general
quality standards. The objective of the paper is to feature some best practices as
well as to highlight the few instances of noncompliance as a measure to assist
improves the library functions. It was commendable to see assiduously built local
collections and exhibitions, community services, and custom-built quick reference
materials. Issues were identified in relation to accession numbers and accession
registers, acquisitions, collection development, marketing of resources, organizing
materials (especially fiction collections), authority control, and appointment of staff,
adoption of the current public library bylaws, management reporting, and
automation. The team of reviewers identified that many of these instances of
noncompliance are involuntarily avoided in an automated library environment.
Also, in some cases new standards should be introduced. Color coding of materials
for classification is one such practice that needs to be standardized. It is proposed
that Public Library Bylaws issued by the Provincial Councils should be updated to
suit the present-day requirements. Also, it was proposed to update the current
marking scheme for the appraisal of public libraries by the Department of Local
Government, Western Province of Sri Lanka.
