Assessing the preparedness of university libraries for digital preservation

Abstract

This study was carried out to assess the preparedness of libraries for digital preservation programs in terms of the availability of financial, technological, human resources, and policies and procedures. The sampling frame comprised of central libraries of 70 public sector universities and DAIs established till 2010. Out of the 70 targeted institutions, 63 participated in the survey with a response rate of 90%. Due to a lack of normality in the data, non-parametric tests (Mann Whitney U and Kruskal Wallis H) were applied for exploring significant differences and variances between different groups. Overall, a passive level of preparedness was observed for digital preservation in these libraries. A lower level of preparedness was noted in terms of policies and procedures related to digital preservation (M = 1.79, SD = 1.039), training opportunities (M = 1.98, SD = 0.944), and skilled human resources (M = 2.07, SD = 1.110). The availability of funds for acquisition of technological infrastructure (M = 2.59, SD = 1.364) was the only area where libraries had a good level of preparedness. Libraries of Islamabad Capital Territory and the Punjab province showed better preparedness than libraries in other parts of the country. The study has theoretical implications for researchers and practical implications for university libraries, higher education administrative bodies, and university and library administrators.