LIBRARY SUPPORT SERVICES AND THEIR INFLUENCE ON STUDENT WELL-BEING IN CHHATTISGARH: A SECONDARY DATA-BASED ANALYTICAL STUDY

Abstract

Academic libraries are no longer limited to the storage and circulation of books. They increasingly provide digital resources, research assistance, quiet learning spaces, internet facilities, information literacy training, orientation programmes and other forms of student support. These services may influence not only academic performance but also students' confidence, comfort, sense of belonging and overall well-being. The present study examines the role of library support services in student well-being with special reference to higher education institutions in Chhattisgarh. The study is based entirely on secondary data. Peer-reviewed research articles, professional standards and official information available from selected higher education libraries in Chhattisgarh were reviewed and analysed thematically. The literature suggests that academic libraries may support student well-being through easier access to information, reduction of library and research anxiety, comfortable study environments, social and academic connection, digital inclusion and referral or collaborative support. Evidence from institutions in Chhattisgarh shows substantial development of print collections, e-resources, digital libraries, internet facilities, reading spaces and research-support systems. However, there is limited direct empirical evidence from Chhattisgarh measuring the relationship between these library services and student well-being. To organize the findings, the paper proposes a Library-Student Well-Being Five-Pathway Framework consisting of information access, academic confidence, supportive space, connection and inclusive digital support. The study concludes that libraries can become important partners in student well-being when services are user-friendly, inclusive and connected with the wider educational support system. It recommends regular assessment of students' experiences and greater collaboration between libraries, faculty, counselling services and institutional administration.