This paper aims to describe the firsthand experience of implementing a digital storytelling (DST) initiative at the Assam Royal Global University Library, Assam, to enhance student engagement and cultural documentation. The study sought to transform the library from a traditional academic space into a participatory, creative hub while preserving the diverse oral traditions of the region.
The digital storytelling (DST) initiative at the Assam Royal Global University Library was implemented using a participatory, student-centric approach that emphasized creativity, cultural preservation, and digital literacy. The study is initiated following stakeholder consultations with faculty, students, and cultural groups, and was supported by institutional leadership. The methodology combined experiential learning, collaborative production, and cultural engagement, creating a scalable and sustainable model for enhancing academic library participation and student empowerment through digital storytelling.
The DST initiative significantly boosted library engagement, with over 7,200 participants over two years and a measurable 20% rise in library visits. Survey data indicated that 88% of attendees felt more connected to the library, and 85% acquired new digital skills. The project enriched the library’s digital collections, fostered interdisciplinary collaboration, improved students’ media literacy and preserved valuable cultural narratives. Moreover, it led to the creation of a vibrant creative community within the campus.
This paper offers a unique practitioner’s perspective on using DST as a tool for library engagement and cultural preservation. It highlights a low-cost, scalable model adaptable to other academic libraries seeking to revitalize user participation through creative and student-centered programming. The approach bridges gaps between traditional library services and contemporary digital practices, contributing meaningfully to the discourse on modern library innovations.
