ENHANCING ORGANIZATIONAL LEARNING AND COMPETITIVENESS: KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT PRACTICES IN UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES

Abstract

Purpose - The aim of the study was to investigate the role of knowledge management practices in enhancing innovation and competitiveness in the university libraries in central in India.  Libraries are considered to be an important link in the knowledge management chain at universities as the basis for gathering, processing, storing, and distributing knowledge. The research provides a comprehensive overview of research conducted on the role of libraries in the knowledge management (KM) chain within universities, specifically focusing on libraries in Madhya Pradesh. The study highlights the central role libraries play in gathering, processing, storing, and distributing knowledge, emphasizing the significance of effective KM practices. The paper discusses the concept of KM in detail and explores how libraries can enhance their KM activities across various key service areas. It also covers the difficulties that come with implementing these techniques. The study aims to assess the current state of knowledge management strategies and their efficacy in university libraries.

Methodology - This research sought to determine, assess, and evaluate the knowledge management practices and performance in university libraries. In this research using a survey method, the study selected six university libraries in Madhya Pradesh, including central, state, and private university libraries.

Finding -The findings indicate that most of these libraries lack a formal KM structure for knowledge sharing. Despite this, there is a high level of awareness and familiarity with KM concepts among academic librarians.

Conclusion - The research identifies a gap between awareness of KM and its formal implementation in university libraries. This study underscores the necessity for a structured approach to KM to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of knowledge sharing within academic institutions. The insights from this research could serve as a valued source for libraries seeking to improve their KM practices.