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LUCKNOW PUBLIC SCHOOL, SECTOR-I, LUCKNOW

Library and information

science
Investigatory Project
2024-2025

Topic:-PRESERVATION AND MAINTENANCE OF

LIBRARY RESOURCES IN TRADITIONAL LIBRARIES
OF INDIA

NAME-SHASHWAT SRIVASTAVA

CLASS –XII

ROLL NO –

SUBMITTED TO – MR. DIP RANJAN

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 CERTIFICATE
THIS IS TO CERTIFY FOR CLASS XII PRACTICAL EXAMINATIONS
CONDUCTED THAT SHASHWAT SRIVASTAVA OF CLASS XII
HAS SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETED THE PROJECT WORK UNDER
MY SUPERVISION BY CENTRAL BOARD OF SECONDARY
EDUCATION IN THE ACADEMIC YEAR 2024-25.

IT IS FURTHER CERTIFIED THAT THIS PROJECT WORK IS THE

INDIVIDUAL WORK OF THE CANDIDATE AS PER MY
EXPECTATIONS ISSUED BY CBSE.

SIGNATURE OF EXAMINER :

MR DIP RANJAN (LIB. & INFO. SCIENCE TEACHER)

____(SIGNATURE)______________________________(RUBBER STAMP) ___

MRS. SURABHI SHARMA (PRINCIPAL)

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I WOULD LIKE TO EXPRESS MY SPECIAL THANKS
AND GRATITUDE TO MY LIB. & INFO. SCIENCE
TEACHER FOR THEIR ABLE GUIDANCE AND
SUPPORT IN COMPLETING MY PROJECT.

I WOULD ALSO LIKE TO EXTEND MY

GRATITUDE TO PRINCIPAL MA’AM FOR
PROVIDING ME WITH ALL THE FACILITY
THAT WAS REQUIRED.

LASTLY I WOULD LIKE TO THANKS MY PARENTS

AND MY FRIENDS WHO MOTIVATED ME
THROUGHOUT THIS JOURNEY OF MAKING
THIS PROJECT; AND HELPED ME TO GET THE
NECESSARY HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE THAT IS
REQUIRED TO FULLY GRASP THE BASICS OF THE
THEORETICAL CONCEPTS AND ITS REAL LIFE
APPLICATIONS.

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 TOPIC:-

PRESERVATION AND

MAINTENANCE OF

LIBRARY

RESOURCES IN

TRADITIONAL

LIBRARIES OF INDIA

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 INTRODUCTION
Preservation of library material is as important as collection building. Libraries
are considered to be social memory of the society. Their survival is important
for the generation and preservation of knowledge. However, the base for
recording knowledge and information are perishable materials. These are
affected by light, temperature, environmental pollutants, biological agents
and human beings. In order to adopt measures that will ensure survival of the
collection we must understand the role of these elements in causing
deterioration and damage to library materials. In this investigatory project we
shall study how library materials gradually deteriorate, what are the factors
that contribute to their deterioration and what measures should be adopted
to prevent their deterioration. The basic purpose of library collection is:

To serve as source for providing information and knowledge to library users visiting
library in person as well as those seeking the same through phone or e-mail.
To function as a place of accumulation of human knowledge as part of the academic and
cultural heritage of society
To serve the above two purposes the library performs two functions: a)
Provide access to its resources and services with the help of various tools
developed for the purpose, and b) Adopt various methods to ensure
availability of the resources to the future generations.

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 ABSTRACT
An eFFICient preservation of library collection, therefore, is an
integral part of the management of library resources. In fact it is

as important as acquisition and organisation of the resource.

Libraries have suffered damage and deterioration of their collection

throughout the history. Sometimes the cause is natural disaster and
other times it is manmade, such as war. But silent damage through
deterioration of paper, the leather used for binding and through
bacteria, cockroaches and rodents have also been wide spread under
preservation. Even then preservation as a major problem was not
much discussed. Albeit need for preservation, by the name care for
books, are found in books on Library Science. In fact, in early
nineteenth century, quality of material available for recording words
were superior and hence could overcome deterioration due to
internal causes.

Therefore, Ranganathan (1940) called preservation as a social need

and emphasized the need to identify library as a social memory
because it helped transmission of knowledge to future generations,
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helped in the accumulation and further building up of knowledge
from generation to generation, helped in the contemporary
development of knowledge without any wastage, building of
knowledge by unintended and purposeless repetition of effort and
consequent wastage in research potential of humanity.

DEFINITION OF PRESERVATION: Preservation in the modern

usage refers to applying all the various methods and techniques and
ensuring such climatic environments, including ways of their storage, as
would prolong life of the artifact as well as content of the materials.
Preservation includes all the managerial and financial considerations
including g storage and accommodation provisions, staffing
levels, policies, techniques and methods involved in preserving library and
archive materials and information contained in them.

DEFINITION OF CONSERVATION: Conservation refers to the

systematic and professional care, preservation, and maintenance of
library materials, including books, manuscripts, documents, photographs,
and other archival items. The goal of conservation in libraries is to ensure
the longevity and accessibility of these materials for current and future
generations.

DEFINITION OF MAINTAINENCE: Maintenance refers to the

systematic and ongoing efforts to ensure the physical and operational well-
being of the library facilities, equipment, and collections. The goal of
maintenance is to preserve the functionality, safety, and longevity
of library resources, spaces, and infrastructure, thereby providing an
optimal environment for users and safeguarding the integrity of the
collections.

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 SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS
SCOPE:
Environmental Factors: The project will focus on
implementing climate control measures to regulate temperature and
humidity levels, addressing the impact of environmental factors on
the preservation of library resources.
Preventive Measures: The project will develop and
implement preventive strategies such as pest control, proper
shelving, and security measures to ensure the physical integrity of
library materials.
Maintenance Strategies: The project will explore regular
inspections, restoration and conservation efforts, digital archiving,
and effective collection management to ensure the sustained
maintenance of library resources.
Training and Awareness: Staff training programs will be
designed and implemented to enhance the skills of library personnel
in preservation techniques, emergency response, and security
measures. User education initiatives will aim to raise awareness
among library patrons regarding responsible handling and usage of
library resources.

Limitations:
Financial Constraints: The project's scope may be limited
by available financial resources, potentially affecting the scale and
speed of implementation for certain preservation and maintenance
initiatives.
Technological Limitations: The effectiveness of
digital archiving initiatives may be constrained by technological

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limitations, including the availability of suitable equipment and
software, and the expertise required for digitization processes.

HISTORICAL REVIEW
THE HISTORICAL SIGNFICANCE OF TRADITIONAL LIBRARIES IN
INDIA IS DEEPLY INTERTWINED WITH THE COUNTRY'S RICH
CULTURAL, INTELLECTUAL, AND LITERARY HERITAGE.
LIBRARIES IN INDIA HAVE PLAYED A PIVOTAL ROLE IN
PRESERVING AND DISSEMINATING KNOWLEDGE ACROSS
CENTURIES, CONTRIBUTING TO THE FLOURISHING OF
VARIOUS FIELDS SUCH AS LITERATURE, PHILOSOPHY,
SCIENCE, AND THE ARTS. HERE ARE KEY ASPECTS OF THE
HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF TRADITIONAL LIBRARIESIN
INDIA:

 Ancient Manuscripts and Texts: India has a long tradition of producing

and preserving manuscripts, written on materials ranging from palm
leaves to parchment. Traditional libraries have been custodians of
these ancient texts, including religious scriptures, philosophical
treatises, scientific discoveries, and literary works.
 Scriptural Preservation: Libraries have been instrumental in
preserving sacred texts and scriptures of various religions, including
Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism. The meticulous copying
and storage of these religious texts have ensured their continuity
through the ages.
 Promotion of Education: Traditional libraries have been key
institutions in promoting education by providing access to a wide
range of knowledge. They have facilitated the intellectual growth of
scholars, students, and the general public alike.
 Continuity and Renewal: Traditional libraries serve as a link between
past and present, providing continuity to the intellectual traditions of

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 India. As custodians of historical records, they contribute to the
renewal of cultural awareness.
 Preservation of Regional Languages: Traditional libraries have been
essential in preserving and promoting literature in regional
languages. They have played a vital role in maintaining the linguistic
diversity of India by safeguarding literary works in languages like
Sanskrit, Tamil, Bengali, Marathi, and many others.

Challenges Faced by Traditional Libraries Worldwide

Traditional libraries worldwide face various challenges
in adapting to the dynamic shifts in information dissemination,
technological advancements, and changing user expectations.
Here are some common challenges faced by traditional libraries:

Digital Transformation: Embracing and integrating digital technologies poses

a significant challenge. Many traditional libraries struggle with digitizing
their collections, implementing electronic cataloging systems, and
providing seamless access to digital resources.
Limited Funding: Traditional libraries often operate on limited budgets,
which can constrain their ability to invest in new technologies, acquire
diverse materials, or renovate facilities. Funding challenges can impede
the modernization and growth of library services.
Changing User Behavior: Shifts in user behavior towards online resources,
e-books, and digital content challenge traditional libraries to redefine their
services and relevance. Users increasingly expect instant access to
information from anywhere, posing a challenge to physical library spaces.
Adapting to Open Access: The shift towards open access and open
educational resources challenges traditional libraries to rethink their
collection development strategies, subscription models, and
collaborations with publishers.

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 COMMON CHALLENGES IN
TRADITIONAL LIBRARIES
1. Temperature and Humidity Control:-Traditional libraries house a vast array
of materials, including books, manuscripts, and historical documents, which are sensitive to
temperature and humidity fluctuations. Inconsistent environmental conditions can accelerate
deterioration, leading to irreversible damage.
Objectives: Implement a climate control system to regulate temperature and humidity levels
within optimal ranges.
Strategies: Collaborate with climate control experts to design and install systems tailored to the
library's unique needs. Establish continuous monitoring mechanisms to ensure environmental
conditions remain within prescribed limits.
Challenges: Budget constraints may limit the implementation of advanced climate control
systems. Existing infrastructure may require retrofixing to accommodate climate control
measures.
2. Pest Infestations: Pest infestations pose a serious threat to library materials, causing
irreparable damage to paper, leather, and other organic substances. Prevention and early detection are
crucial to safeguarding collections.
Objectives: Collaborate with pest control agencies to implement preventive measures
and regular inspections. Develop protocols for immediate response in case of pest detection.
Strategies: Conduct routine inspections by pest control professionals to identify and address
potential infestations. Educate library staff on proper storage practices and early signs of pest
activity.
Challenges: Balancing effective pest control with the need to minimize chemical exposure to
valuable materials. Ensuring ongoing staff vigilance and adherence to preventive measures.
3. Physical Wear and Tear: The physical handling and shelving of materials can result in
wear and tear, especially in traditional libraries where many items may be rare or fragile.
Developing guidelines for proper care is essential to mitigate this challenge.
Objectives: Establish best practices for shelving and handling materials to minimize physical
damage. Conduct staff training programs to ensure proper implementation of guidelines.
Strategies: Organize workshops and training sessions for library staff on handling and shelving
techniques. Introduce protective measures such as book cradles and appropriate storage
containers for delicate items.
Challenges: Overcoming resistance to change in established shelving and handling practices.
Adapting guidelines to the unique requirements of different types of materials.
4. Lack of Awareness Among Library Staff and Users: The success of
preservation efforts relies on the awareness and cooperation of both library staff and users.
Lack of knowledge about proper preservation practices can lead to unintentional damage.
Objectives: Gauge the current level of awareness among staff and users regarding
preservation practices. Develop targeted educational programs to enhance awareness.

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Strategies: Conduct surveys and feedback sessions to identify areas of low awareness. Design
and implement training programs for staff and user education initiatives.
Challenges: Ensuring sustained interest and participation in awareness programs. Customizing
educational materials to cater to diverse literacy levels and learning preferences. By addressing
these environmental factors, traditional libraries can significantly enhance the preservation of
their valuable collections, ensuring they remain accessible for generations to come.
5.Biological factor : Micro-organisms, insects and rodents are different types of
biological agents which damage paper and other components of printed materials such
as leather, textiles or straw board used for binding. Micro-organisms include fungus
or moulds, bacteria etc. Fungus is a large heterogeneous group of plant organism that remains
in dormant state for long periods but grows in 63-100% humidity and 15-35 C temperature.
1. Silverfish: These insects hide in the day time and come out at night. The starch, glue
and gelatine which are used in paper as sizing materials attracts this insect. It is silver or
pearl grey in colour and about 8 to 10 mm in length. The insect eats the surface of the
paper and adhesive used for pasting bindings and makes holes in paper, prints,
photographs, catalogue cards and cardboard boxes
2. Cockroaches: damage books and other print materials in darkness. They eat paper
leaves, bookbinding, fabrics and other organic materials. They usually live in damp and
dark places.
3. Book worms: Bookworms or the larva of beetle eat the paper and bindings of library
materials by making pin holes.
4. Book lice: Book lice are grey or white coloured insects which eat paste, glue and
fungus formed between the edges of inner cover of the books.
6.CHEMICAL FACTOR: Different types of chemicals like, alum, rosin, etc., are used in the
process of manufacturing paper. Certain chemical compounds which have acidic effects are
available in the ink used for printing. In the long run, the chemicals become agents of chemical
deterioration, and damage paper and other components of printed materials. Besides the
chemicals used in paper manufacturing and printing, a number of chemicals like carbon oxide,
sulphur oxide, nitrogen and hydrogen sulphides are present in the atmosphere. These
chemicals react with paper in the presence of oxygen and moisture present in the atmosphere
and create acidic compounds, which weaken paper and its constituents. The yellow and brittle
edges of old books are caused by sulphur dioxide. Similarly, nitric acid damages the colour of
ink, paper, leather and cloth.

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 MAINTAINENCE
STRATEGIES
1.Arrangement on shelves
After the decision about placing the materials into such broad taken, the library has to arrange the books
on the shelves under each sequence. It is called shelf arrangement. Traditionally one of the three types
of arrangements is followed in libraries- classfiied Arrangement, based on one or other standard
schemes of classfications, alphabetically by author or title of the books, serial number as per accession
register (Accession number).
2.Shelving
The aim of shelving is to put back books earlier removed from a shelf for reading or borrowing, to their
assigned place. Broadly speaking the routines of shelving include cleaning and dusting of books, moving
over books in the shelves create space for new addition in the same subject area. The shelving staff
should strengthen the shelves constantly, keep all books in a straight line by pushing books backward and
forward, keep the spines of books parallel to the front borderline of each shelf.
3. Refurbishing of Stacks
Refurbishing refers to organising through cleaning of the entire stacks. “An active and well organised
refurbishing programme is a vital maintenance activity in library”. The work is carried out once in a year.
However, it can also be organised as a routine by selected by choosing part of the stack area for a week
or month. In selected areas all books are removed from the shelves. Each book is replaced a tier
cleaning. Damaged books are removed and separated in to more damaged books needing professional
conservation

PRESERVATION
STRATERGIES
(1)Protection from light: Library materials should not be exposed to sunlight or
powerful florescent electric light. In order to save them from sunlight, ultraviolet filter
or coloured window screens should be used. Using green or lemon coloured window panes
may also stop the ultraviolet rays. The standard electric light should be used in a library
while reading. It is recommended to use LED bulbs which generate less heat and
ultraviolet rays.
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(2) Temperature: The temperature of a library should be maintained at around room
temperature. Ideal temperature range for a library is considered to be 20 C to 25 C.
(3) Humidity: The relative humidity inside a library should be kept between 30%-
40%. For this purpose, humidifiers or dehumidifiers may be used to control the humidity
level.
(4)Ventilation: Ventilation is needed for both the library materials and the people
present in a library. However, it should be controlled as uncontrolled ventilation may disturb the
relative humidity, temperature and pollution level inside the library.
(5) Pollution: It is always recommended that the site of a library should be in a
less polluted area, where both air and sound pollution is under control. But, libraries are
usually near human settlements or industries where pollution can't be avoided. Hence, it
is recommended that trees and herbs should be grown around libraries. The walls should
be made sound proof if the noise level is very high.
(6)Preventive measures for Biological Factors: Insects, fungus and all kinds
of biological pests grow in dark, damp and dingy places in libraries. The first prevention
is to stop the growth of such pests. For this purpose, the house keeping work in every
56 library should be maintained. Provision of cross ventilation and air circulation inside
the library is essential. A distance of at least 15cm should be maintained between the
book racks and the wall. There should be no cracks in the walls, floor and ceiling, as they
might act as a breeding place for insects. Eating and drinking should be avoided inside
the library because food stuff attracts insects. Insecticidal powder or solution like
lindane, should be sprayed in the dark corners, beneath bookracks and inside
cupboards, periodically.
(7)Preventive Measures for Chemical Factors: It is always recommended
that libraries should prefer to purchase library edition of books as paper, ink, binding
and other materials used in the publication of these editions are made of less damaging
chemicals. It is very difficult to put a check on the damaging chemicals present in the
air. The only solution is to have a system of air conditioning, which would work round the
clock.
(8)Training and Awareness: Training and awareness programs are integral
components of any comprehensive strategy for the preservation and maintenance of
resources in traditional libraries. In the dynamic landscape of library management,
ensuring that both staff and users are well-informed and equipped with the necessary
skills is crucial for the long-term sustainability of library collections
(9)Staff Training: The cornerstone of successful preservation efforts lies in the
expertise and understanding of library staff. Staff training programs are designed to elevate their
knowledge in preservation techniques, emergency response, and security measures.
Collaborating with conservation experts and professional trainers, the library aims to
tailor programs that address the specific needs of its collection. Incorporating hands-
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on workshops into the training curriculum provides staff members with practical
experience in handling preservation challenges. Recognizing the importance of
continuous learning, the library establishes a regular schedule for ongoing staff
development sessions. Challenges in staff training may include overcoming resistance to
new methods and ensuring that all staff members, including new hires, receive
consistent and comprehensive training.
(10)User Education Programs: Users are essential stakeholders in the
preservation equation. Educating library patrons about responsible resource handling
and the significance of preservation fosters a sense of shared responsibility. The
objectives of user education programs include raising awareness about the fragility
of certain materials and communicating the broader importance of resource
preservation for the community. Interactive workshops, seminars, and lectures serve as
effective tools in engaging users and conveying the message. Additionally, the library
develops user-friendly guides and informational materials that articulate proper
handling practices. Collaborations with local schools and community organizations extend
the reach of these educational programs. Challenges in user education may involve
capturing the attention of diverse user groups and balancing educational efforts with
maintaining a welcoming library environment.

CONCLUSION
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In conclusion, the project on the preservation and maintenance of
resources in traditional libraries in India addresses critical
challenges and outlines strategic iniatives to ensure the
longevity and accessibility of valuable cultural and
intellectual materials. This faceted approach
encompasses environmental factors, staff training, user
education, and information dissemination, recognizing the
interconnected nature of these components in fostering a culture
of preservation. The analysis of environmental factors
underscores the importance of regulating temperature
and humidity, mitigating pest infestations, and addressing physical
wear and tear. Implementing climate control systems, collaborating
with pest control experts, and establishing proper
handling guidelines are vital steps in safeguarding the integrity
of the library's collections. The emphasis on staff training
acknowledges the pivotal role of library personnel ineffective
preservation practices. By collaborating with conservation
experts and integrating hands-on workshops, the project aims to
empower staff with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate
preservation challenges. User education programs form a crucial
aspect of the project, recognizing that the preservation efforts
are enhanced when library patrons actively participate. Through
interactive workshops, seminars, and user-friendly informational
materials, the library aims to raise awareness about responsible
resource handling and cultivate a sense of shared responsibility
within the community. Information dissemination serves as the
bridge connecting preservation initiatives with both staff and
users. By utilizing newsletters, social media, and integrating
preservation messaging into library events, the project aims to
maintain a consistent and coherent message across various
communication channels, ensuring that the library community is
well-informed and engaged. The success of the project relies on
overcoming challenges such as budget constraints, resistance to
change, and the need for customized educational approaches.
Addressing these challenges requires collaborative efforts,
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adaptability, and a commitment to preserving the unique cultural
and intellectual heritage housed within traditional libraries. In
essence, the project aligns with the overarching goal of
responsible stewardship, ensuring that traditional libraries in
India continue to serve as vibrant repositories of knowledge,
cultural heritage, and community engagement. Through a
proactive approach to preservation and maintenance, these
libraries can transcend the challenges of the modern era,
preserving their relevance for current and future generations.

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BIBLIOGRAPHY
AND
REFERENCES

BIBLIOGRAPHY
 CBSE HANDBOOK OF LIBRARY AND INFORMATION
SCIENCE, CLASS 12
 BOOK PRESERVATION AND ITS CHALLENGES BY DR. S.
R. RANGANTHAN

REFERENCES
 scribd.com
 learncbse.com

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