Role of Pakistani e-libraries in promoting health awareness for the attainment of Sustainable Development Goal-3.

Abstract

Pakistan is a densely populated South Asian country. It is facing numerous health challenges, as well as problems of the digital divide. The government of Pakistan established e-libraries as a pilot project in 2018. These libraries are functioning through community centers/public libraries in the largest province of the country. This paper examines the role of Pakistani e-libraries in creating health awareness and providing health information to the public. The qualitative research design was based on focus group discussions with the head librarians of all 13 of the 20 e-libraries contacted. The findings revealed that e-libraries actively create health-related awareness and connect the public to health advisors. The e-libraries were engaged in four types of health-related activities (seminars, awareness campaigns, open health camps, and special health day celebrations) with high attendance from the public. Attendees of these programs returned to librarians with additional health-related queries. The study suggests a need for more liaison between the community and local healthcare institutions. This approach can make these programs more effective in helping individuals manage their health. The results of this study can serve as a useful guide for other developing nations in developing similar services.