Heritage Meets Technology: Deccan College Unveils Digital Library and Mobile App

Pune, 8th October 2024: Deccan College Postgraduate and Research Institute, Deemed to be University, Pune, jointly celebrated the 13th Convocation and 203rd Foundation Day on Sunday. Prof. Pramod Pandey, Vice Chancellor, Deccan College and Honorable Chief Guest Dr. Prashant Dhakefalkar, Director, Agharkar Research Institute, Pune officially inaugurated Deccan College Digital Library ‘Virasat’ and Deccan College Library App.

Welcome to a library where heritage meets modern technology. Here, the rich legacy of knowledge, preserved for centuries, is seamlessly integrated with contemporary advancements, creating a smooth, efficient, and secure experience for both patrons and staff.

Deccan College’s historic library, under the stewardship of Librarian Dr. Trupti More, and supported by a team of efficient staff, have undergone a remarkable transformation, integrating modern technology to enrich the user experience while preserving its rich heritage. The library now offers a suite of advanced facilities designed to streamline operations and provide patrons with seamless access to its vast collection of resources. The digital access area ensures that the library remains a gateway to the latest information, connecting patrons with global resources at their fingertips.

1. Virasat: The Digital Library of DCPGRI is accessible at https://virasat.dcpune.ac.in/jspui/, and serves as a comprehensive digital repository aimed at promoting research, education, and engagement with our historical collections. This innovative platform not only enhances access to valuable resources but also encourages collaboration and entrepreneurship among scholars and innovators. We invite the academic community, researchers, and the public to explore the rich offerings of the Deccan Virasat Portal and join us in celebrating our heritage while embracing the future of knowledge and innovation. By digitizing these valuable resources, this University library not only safeguard our rich history but also enhance research opportunities and promote broader engagement within our academic community. This significant step underscores our commitment to preserving our heritage for future generations while advancing knowledge and research. Additionally, our repository will feature rare Manuscripts, Pothy’s, rare books published between 1523 & 1960, University’s annual research Bulletins, Research Publications, Annual Reports, Ph.D. Theses, M.A. Dissertations, Maps, Toposheets, and a wealth of non-print collections, including audio-visual materials (Audio-video Cassettes, Gramophone Discs), CDs, microfilms, and microfiche.

The Deccan College Postgraduate and Research Institute has developed Virasat digital library database in collaboration with the Indian startup company VIR Softech Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi.

2. DCPGRI Library Mobile App for Patrons: For our patrons, the library is now available at their fingertips. A dedicated mobile app has been launched, enabling patrons to explore the library’s resources, issue and return books, and use self-service options—all from their own mobile devices. This innovation empowers users to manage their interactions with the library conveniently and independently. Through the mobile app, they can easily access the entire library’s resources, including browsing, reservations, and RFID-enabled self-service.

At the heart of this transformation is the latest RFID system, designed to streamline library operations while maintaining the dignity of this historic institution, which has been standing strong since 1821. Security has been reinforced with a mono gate at one entrance and a dual-panel system at the other, ensuring seamless, unobstructed access for patrons while maintaining top-notch security. For staff, the handheld RFID reader simplifies inventory management and the retrieval of misplaced books, saving time and enhancing efficiency.

At the core of this thriving library are its dedicated staff members, working efficiently behind the scenes to ensure a seamless and enriching experience for all patrons. The library is now a blend of history and innovation.

The Deccan College Post-Graduate and Research Institute has developed Library Mobile APP and the RFID system in collaboration with the Indian startup company, Beegees Computers Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, by which the library has provided a range of up-to-date facilities to simplify operations and provide users with easy access to a vast collection of resources.

A special grant from the Government of Maharashtra helped to build all the above updated services, for which the University administration is eternally grateful towards them.