📄 Abstract
In the contemporary era, the rapid advancement of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has brought significant transformation in the field of Library and Information Science. Among the most influential developments are Open Access (OA) resources and electronic books (e-books), which have reshaped the traditional structure of information creation, dissemination, and use. These digital innovations have made academic and educational resources more accessible, cost-effective, and user-friendly, thereby strengthening the global knowledge-sharing system. This study aims to examine the impact of Open Access and e-books on the transformation of library services, with a special focus on changes in service delivery, user behaviour, and the evolving role of library professionals. The research adopts a qualitative and descriptive methodology, based on an extensive review of existing literature, scholarly articles, policy documents, and reports related to Open Access initiatives and e-book adoption in libraries. The study also uses a document analysis approach to understand trends, challenges, and opportunities in digital library services. The findings indicate that Open Access has significantly reduced barriers to scholarly communication by providing free and unrestricted access to research outputs, institutional repositories, and peer-reviewed journals. Similarly, e-books have revolutionized reading habits and collection development practices by enabling remote and on-demand access through various digital devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers. As a result, libraries are gradually shifting from traditional print-based collection management to more dynamic, user-centered, and technology-driven service models. Furthermore, the role of librarians has evolved from custodians of physical collections to information facilitators, digital literacy trainers, and electronic resource managers. Despite these advancements, several challenges persist, including copyright restrictions, digital rights management issues, inadequate technological infrastructure, limited digital literacy among users, long-term preservation concerns, and the digital divide. In conclusion, Open Access and e-books have played a crucial role in transforming Library and Information Science by enhancing accessibility, improving information dissemination, and supporting user-centered services. The study suggests that with proper policy frameworks, technological support, and continuous training programs, libraries can further strengthen their role as inclusive and innovative knowledge hubs in the digital age.
🏷️ Keywords
📚 How to Cite:
Sangh Priya Singh Gautam , IMPACT OF OPEN ACCESS AND E-BOOKS: TRANSFORMATION IN LIBRARY SCIENCE , Volume 12 , Issue 9, September 2026, EPRA International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research (IJMR) , Pages: 158 - 161 , DOI: https://doi.org/10.36713/epra31376