Dr. S.R. Ranganathan Notes
Biography
- *Full Name*: Shiyali Ramamrita Ranganathan
- *Born*: August 9, 1892, in Shiyali, Tamil Nadu, India
- *Died*: September 27, 1972
- *Nationality*: Indian
- *Profession*: Librarian, Educator, and Information Scientist
Key Contributions
- *Father of Library Science in India*: Pioneered library science in India and laid the foundation for modern library services.
- *Colon Classification*: Developed the Colon Classification system, a faceted classification system that organizes library materials based on multiple attributes.
- *Five Laws of Library Science*: Formulated the Five Laws of Library Science, which are fundamental principles guiding library services:
1. *Books are for use*: Libraries should prioritize accessibility and usability of resources.
2. *Every reader his or her book*: Library collections should cater to the diverse needs and interests of users.
3. *Every book its reader*: Libraries should strive to connect each book with its potential reader.
4. *Save the time of the reader*: Libraries should provide efficient services to minimize the time users spend finding information.
5. *A library is a growing organism*: Libraries should be dynamic, continuously evolving to meet the changing needs of users and society.
Awards and Honors
- *Padma Shri*: Awarded the Padma Shri in 1965, one of India's highest civilian honors, for his contributions to library science.
Legacy
- *Global Influence*: Dr. Ranganathan's work has had a lasting impact on library science and information science worldwide.
- *Inspiration*: He inspired generations of librarians and information professionals to prioritize user needs, accessibility, and efficient services.
Key Works
- *The Five Laws of Library Science* (1931): A foundational text outlining the principles of library science.
- *Colon Classification*: A detailed classification system that has been widely adopted in libraries.
- *Prolegomena to Library Classification*: A comprehensive guide to library classification theory and practice.
Impact on Modern Libraries
- *User-Centric Approach*: Dr. Ranganathan's Five Laws emphasize the importance of prioritizing user needs and accessibility in library services.
- *Classification and Organization*: His Colon Classification system provides a flexible and detailed method for organizing library materials.
- *Professional Standards*: His work set high standards for library professionals, emphasizing the importance of service, organization, and continuous improvement.

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