Patterns Of Shadow Library Use And Access To Knowledge In Northeast India: An Empirical Study With Special Reference To Assam
Susmit Isfaq, Research Scholar, Department of Law, North Eastern Hill University, Shillong, Meghalaya
Dr. Ravi Kant Mishra, Associate Professor, Department of Law, North Eastern Hill University, Shillong, Meghalaya
ABSTRACT
Access to knowledge has become easier with the advancement of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), albeit theoretically. In practice, the rising cost of subscription has continued to limit access to scholarly writings, particularly in developing regions such as India. In response to this, a rapid proliferation is evident in the use of shadow libraries that provide access to scholarly writings without a paywall. Drawing on empirical data, this study examines the use of shadow libraries among higher-level students and scholars in Assam, India. It explores usage patterns and perceptions of access insufficiency by situating Assam as a representative context in Northeast India.
Keywords: Shadow libraries, Assam, Serials crisis, copyright.
