Digital information literacy skills of Pakistani librarians: exploring supply-demand mismatches, adoption strategies and acquisition barriers

Abstract

Purpose This study aimed to examine the current and needed levels of the digital information literacy (DIL) skills of Pakistani librarians and further explored the strategies of and barriers to its acquisition and/or enhancement. Design/methodology/approach Using the quantitative approach, a cross-sectional survey was conducted. A convenience sample of Pakistani university librarians was recruited. Out of 225 distributed questionnaires, only 180 surveys were returned, a response rate of 80%. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analyzes. Findings The present status of DIL skills was found low and there is a high demand for its acquisition. The results also explored that the present level of DIL skills is not matching with its required level and thus training is needed. Further, strategies adopted for its attainment were identified including training programs, seminars and social media. Additionally, barriers in the attainment of DIL skills were also established including librarians’ lack of interest, poor internet facilities, absence of users’ demand, no training programs and lack of collaboration between the faculty and librarians. Research limitations/implications This study was limited to librarians serving in three different universities of Pakistan. The findings of this study may motivate librarians toward the adoption of digital innovations. This study also informs librarians to recognize gaps in their DIL skills and should attempt to diminish it using diverse strategies. The results also inform the concerned authorities about the barriers faced by librarians in the acquisition of DIL skills and can plan for training programs. Additionally, LIS curriculum should be revised to incorporate topics related to the learning of innovative digital skills. Finally, results motivate librarians to attain DIL skills that possibly augment their performance. Originality/value This study is the first attempt in Pakistan that examined supply-demand mismatches, adoption strategies and acquisition barriers in the context of librarians’ DIL skills serving in the university libraries of Peshawar. As the current status of DIL skills of Pakistani librarians was found low, thus university authorities should organize professional development programs for librarians to acquire and/or enhance the DIL skills.