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SIBGA Institute of Advanced Studies (SIAS)

Library Policy

1. Introduction

The Library at SIBGA Institute of Advanced Studies (SIAS) serves as a vital academic and intellectual hub for students and faculty across all programmes. It is fully automated with KOHA Library Management Software, ensuring efficient cataloguing, circulation, and information retrieval services. The Library aims to support the institution’s teaching, learning, and research missions by providing access to high-quality resources in both physical and digital formats.

2. Vision

To build a modern, accessible, and inclusive library ecosystem that supports academic excellence, research, and lifelong learning through innovative technologies and curated resources.

3. Objectives

  • To provide timely access to books, journals, and e-resources aligned with the curriculum.
  • To promote digital literacy and foster independent learning habits.
  • To maintain a well-organized, technology-enabled learning space.
  • To preserve, archive, and disseminate scholarly content.

4. Courses Covered

Library services are available to students and staff of all 7 UG programmes offered:

  • BSc Geography
  • BSc Psychology
  • BBA
  • BCA
  • BCom (Computer Application)
  • BCom (Cooperation)
  • BA English
  • MCom

5. Library Resources

  • Books and Journals: Subject-specific texts, reference books, magazines, newspapers, and journals.
  • Digital Access:
    • KOHA OPAC (Online Public Access Catalogue) for resource discovery.
    • Access to INFLIBNET/N-LIST e-resources, e-books, and open-access repositories.
    • Computers with internet for academic purposes.
  • Automation: All services including issue/return, cataloguing, membership, and reservation are managed through KOHA.

6. Library Membership

All admitted students, teaching, and non-teaching staff are eligible for membership. Library membership is issued through KOHA using student/staff ID and barcode system.

7. Library Timings

  • Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
  • Saturday (if open): 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
  • Closed on Sundays and public holidays.
  • (Extended hours during examinations may be announced.)

8. Borrowing Rules

Category No. of Books Loan Period
UG Students 3 books 14 days
Faculty Members 6 books 30 days
Non-teaching Staff 2 books 14 days
  • Renewals: One-time renewal allowed unless reserved by another user.
  • Late Return Fine: ₹1 per book per day.
  • Loss/Damage: Must be reported immediately. The user must replace the book or pay twice the book’s cost.

9. Rules for Use

  • Silence must be strictly observed in the library.
  • Mobile phones must be in silent mode; calls are not permitted inside.
  • Bags and personal belongings must be left at the designated counter.
  • Eating or group discussions are not allowed in the reading areas.
  • Books must be handled with care and returned in good condition.

10. Digital and Reference Services

  • Reference materials (encyclopedias, dictionaries, yearbooks) and journals are for in-library use only.
  • Librarians assist in locating resources, using OPAC, and accessing digital databases.
  • Students are encouraged to use KOHA OPAC to search books by title, author, subject, or keyword.

11. Book Reservation and OPAC

Books can be reserved online via the KOHA OPAC. Reserved books must be collected within 2 working days after notification.

12. Information Literacy and Orientation

  • Library orientation will be conducted for first-year students.
  • Sessions on e-resource usage, citation tools, and academic referencing will be organized periodically.

13. Book Bank Facility

Economically disadvantaged students may avail the Book Bank Scheme, subject to availability. Textbooks are issued for the entire semester under this scheme.

14. Stock Verification and Maintenance

  • Annual stock verification will be done as per Kannur University and government guidelines.
  • Damaged/outdated books will be weeded out following a transparent procedure.

15. Library Committee

The Library Advisory Committee oversees the functioning and development of the library, including:

  • Collection development
  • Budget allocation
  • Feedback and grievance redressal
  • Policy updates

Composition:

  • Principal (Chairperson)
  • Academic Dean (Ex officio Member)
  • Librarian (Convener)
  • Faculty representatives from each department
  • Student representative (optional)

16. Policy Review

This policy shall be reviewed annually or as required by the Library Advisory Committee, based on user feedback, institutional needs, and technological advancements.

Approved by: Governing body of the College.

Prepared by: Dean, Academics – Prof (Dr) Prasadan P K