Periodical Management System at TU Central Library: An Evaluation

Periodical service holds an important role in libraries of academic institutes. This study is undertaken to discuss the acquisition of periodicals, management and organization in academic library of TUCL. The approaches used in the study included questionnaire-based fact gathering survey, the examination of serials stock and other management records and observation of library activities in the periodical sections. The findings showed that TUCL used major methods i.e. purchase, exchange, gift, donation and institutional membership for periodical acquisition. The purchase method is used as it is reliable, effective and time saving for the regular acquisition. On management, budgetary constraint is major problem as exchange rate with foreign currency is much higher. As a result, Nepalese academic libraries have not been able to subscribe overseas journals regularly. Poor budget allocation, lack of qualified personnel, lack of incentives for workers, storage facilities were the major management problem noted. In conclusion, the study recommends that proper management and organization of periodical is must for effective and quality service of libraries in academic institutions.