Low-cost digital services at public library: a case study from India

Purpose This study aims to describe how low-cost digital tools were implemented at Students Library, a public library in West Bengal, India, to improve access to information and user engagement. Design/methodology/approach A case study was conducted at the Students Library, Public Library in West Bengal, India over a ten-month period. Data were collected through observation of digital library services, user feedback, monitoring of user participation and analysis of digital information dissemination activities. WhatsApp was used to disseminate newspapers, e-books, e-magazines, current affairs resources, employment information and library notices, while Google Drive was implemented as a cloud-based repository for organising and providing access to digital resources. Findings The initiative resulted in approximately 30% growth in new library users, a 34% increase in daily library visits and a 26% increase in the use of library resources. The combination of WhatsApp and Google Drive proved to be an affordable and sustainable digital service model. Research limitations/implications The study is limited to a single public library, which may affect the generalisability of the findings. Future studies may evaluate similar digital service models across different types of public libraries and geographical settings. Practical implications This experience demonstrates that small public libraries with limited resources can strengthen digital services using freely available technologies without significant financial investment. Social implications Improved access to digital information can strengthen community engagement, promote digital inclusion and support lifelong learning, particularly in underserved communities. Originality/value This study presents a practical case demonstrating the integrated use of WhatsApp and Google Drive as low-cost digital technologies for strengthening information dissemination and reducing the digital divide in public libraries.