Cost-Benefit Analysis of Library Automation Project: A Case Study of Rabindra Library, Assam University Silchar

Abstract

Analyzing the costs and benefits of a proposed project or program is an essential step in deciding whether or not to proceed with it, as is doing an after-the-fact evaluation to determine whether or not the project or program was a success. To entirely or partly automate their libraries, library, and information centers (LICs) are spending a significant amount of money. No LICs, however, undertake CBA before or after the implementation of library automation (LPA). Ex-post-facto cost-benefit analysis (CBA) was used to determine the costs and benefits of LPA. Moreover, Secondary materials like Rabindra Library's yearly reports and budget forecasts were utilized to supplement the original data collected via surveys and observations. MS-Excel application evaluates the collected data and shows it in tabular and graphical formats. The LAP cost at Rabindra Library was Rs. 34,431,820.00, but the advantages (both monetary and non-monetary) were worth Rs.2,52,93,798.00 for seven years of the study period. Sensitivity at a rate of minus five percent; minus three; plus three; five, and ten percent are included in the Benefit-Cost Ratio to show the possible variation in estimation. Improved services and improved administration of activities, employees, and resources are examples of how LAP has profited from the program due to the benefits to users like students, researchers, professors, and staff. LAP has also positively impacted managing libraries and providing effective services to users. The advantages of automating a university library outweigh the expense in the long run.