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

ABSTRACT
Rising costs of scholarly resources, budgetary constraints, and rapid technological
change have compelled academic libraries to adopt collaborative approaches to resource
sharing and improved access to information. In this context, this study investigates the
viability of forming a library consortium for Syro-Malabar seminary libraries by examining
the transition from conceptual user support to perceived institutional readiness. The study
followed an exploratory, descriptive survey design, including six major seminaries of the
Syro-Malabar Church. A total of 480 questionnaires were distributed to library users, of
which 440 were valid. The findings reveal that 67.60% of respondents are aware of the
concept, indicating a favourable environment for collaborative initiatives. Users strongly
perceive the need to form a consortium (M = 4.03) and express confidence in their
institutions’ willingness to participate (M = 3.93). Respondents strongly believe that a unified
network platform will expand access and satisfy their information needs. The study concludes
that the transition from individual library setups to a collaborative consortium network is
highly viable and desired. Its implementation will maximize limited budgets, bridge the
digital divide, and elevate the standard of research.