Assessment of the Effectiveness of Digital Library Platforms in Higher and Technical Education Institutions of the Marathwada Region

The rapid integration of digital library platforms into higher and technical education has significantly transformed academic information access, research support, and learning practices. This study evaluates the effectiveness of digital library platforms across higher and technical education institutions in the Marathwada region of Maharashtra. The assessment focuses on usability, accessibility, user satisfaction, content relevance, and the extent to which these platforms enhance learning and research productivity. Data were collected from students, faculty members, and librarians across selected institutions using structured questionnaires and interviews. The study reveals that although digital libraries have improved information access and academic engagement, challenges such as intermittent internet connectivity, limited digital literacy, and underutilization of advanced features persist. The findings suggest the need for capacity-building programmers, infrastructure strengthening, and better awareness mechanisms for optimal utilization of digital library resources.