A Qualitative Case Study of Green Environment: Practices, Attitudes and Future Strategies of Pakistani University Librarians

Abstract

Scope: This paper attempts to explicate sustainable practices’ status in university libraries with specific reference to Pakistan. This idea enunciates the potential of university libraries to address the environmental issues through work operations as a social responsibility.Design/methodology/approach: This case study utilized multiple methods for mapping data from different sources, such as face-to-face in-person 27 interviews, observation (participants and the sites), pictures, document review and field notes to explore the existing status of sustainable practices of librarians. Furthermore, a cross case analysis was done to validate the findings.Findings: Status of green work practices is unsatisfactory. Majority of librarians are not familiar, have a limited or different understanding of going green. Consequently, green work practices are highly uneven in absence of framed guidelines.Practical Implications: Overall, there is a dearth of LIS literature in the domain of going green. The current research based on the belief that every small individual green action counts on protecting planet earth across nation and across globe.Originality/Value: This case study is to stimulate a conversation on environmental education and promotion among library professionals. Additionally, the study will also place local librarianship into the latest perspective of “green literature” and increase the value and significance of local librarians’ green efforts in the global context.