Role of Library Association in India

Libraries hold a special position in the development of a society. In the modern Society, Library is the brain of an institution. For the development of libraries, Library Associations have been established which play a vital role for the cooperation among libraries and its professionals. The basic assignment of a library Association is to improve, expand and the professional knowledge in the library and information institutions and research centers, to provide leadership quality among the library professions, promote and improvement of library services, to promote educational programs and other innovative programs and publications. The main role of Library association in India is to promote library, to educate, to articulate and provide for the need of the clientele to increase productivity and economy of the society. The process of developing competent library and information science professionals is directly related to the quality of LIS education imparted to these professionals. In the networked environment there is a strong need for continuing professional education and training. LIS education and training for LIS students and professionals has become crucial for meeting the challenges of 21 st century. Besides many universities and institutes, library associations also organize various training and refresher courses, orientation programmes, seminars, conferences etc. that pertaining into LIS education to overcome the challenges of 21 st century. This study covers the role of Library Associations in the arena of library and its profession.