FROM CONCEPTUAL SUPPORT TO PERCEIVED READINESS: ASSESSING THE VIABILITY OF A SYRO-MALABAR SEMINARY LIBRARY CONSORTIUM

ABSTRACTRising costs of scholarly resources, budgetary constraints, and rapid technologicalchange have compelled academic libraries to adopt collaborative approaches to resourcesharing and improved access to information. In this context, this study investigates theviability of forming a library consortium for Syro-Malabar seminary libraries by examiningthe transition from conceptual user support to perceived institutional readiness. The studyfollowed an exploratory, descriptive survey design, including six major seminaries of theSyro-Malabar Church. A total of 480 questionnaires were distributed to library users, ofwhich 440 were valid. The findings reveal that 67.60% of respondents are aware of theconcept, indicating a favourable environment for collaborative initiatives. Users stronglyperceive the need to form a consortium (M = 4.03) and express confidence in theirinstitutions’ willingness to participate (M = 3.93). Respondents strongly believe that a unifiednetwork platform will expand access and satisfy their information needs. The study concludesthat the transition from individual library setups to a collaborative consortium network ishighly viable and desired. Its implementation will maximize limited budgets, bridge thedigital divide, and elevate the standard of research.