Libraries In Pakistan Research Articles

Fostering innovation in smart library services: An in-depth exploration of empowered capabilities and dynamic strategies among university librarians in Pakistan

Purpose The need to implement innovative smart services in libraries is becoming more widely recognized. This paper investigates the current status of innovation in smart library services, how university librarians can support innovation in library services through their capacities and dynamic strategies, the implications that innovative initiatives have on overall effectiveness, and the challenges that university librarians perceive. Methodology A mixed-method approach was employed in this study. In the qualitative method, in-depth interviews were conducted with 10 chief librarians of university libraries and 150 university library professionals made up the sample for the quantitative investigation from throughout Pakistan. Findings The provision of smart services is clearly in the plans for the growth of university libraries in Pakistan, and the majority of university librarians also discuss the challenges in implementing innovations and provide solutions to these problems. The study uncovers significant barriers to adopting innovative library services, such as the fear of job displacement due to technology and financial constraints. However, it underscores the potential of focused training, AI, and IoT technologies to enhance library services. Originality These advancements can boost user engagement and operational efficiency and are crucial for aligning library services with global educational and sustainability goals. The research stresses the need for strategic planning and investment in financing and infrastructure, advocating that these measures can enhance educational outcomes and reduce information access disparities, thereby benefiting the entire community.

Awareness of Pakistani academic librarians towards communication skills: barriers and benefits

Purpose The purpose of this study is to measure the current levels of awareness of communication skills among academic librarians in degree-awarding institutions of Pakistan and to identify barriers that libraries, with the support of organizational stakeholders, could target to enhance adoption and / or improvement of these skills. Design/methodology/approach Quantitative research design, based on a Web-based survey method, used a questionnaire as the data collection tool for librarians used in degree-awarding institutions in Pakistan. After incorporating feedback from experts in the field, the questionnaire link was shared with a sample population of n = 400 academic librarians in Pakistan, using simple random sampling. The data was coded in Microsoft Excel and exported to SPSS v 26 for analysis. Findings Overall, the findings underscore a consistent and moderate to high level of awareness by this cohort of basic library communication skills and their associated benefits. The level of agreement as to the principal barriers to these skills aligns with previous research results over the past decade and therefore underlines the need to prioritize the development of appropriate solutions. Research limitations/implications Further research is indicated to investigate the major factors contributing to the principal barriers identified in the current study. Practical implications The study recommends that librarians work with relevant stakeholders to identify strategies to enhance their personal and interpersonal communication skills and to address current barriers to upskilling. Originality/value The study could serve as a foundation for any future research and policy frameworks to enhance employability and communication skills among librarians in Pakistan.

Evaluating the implementations of big data analytics in academic libraries: a structural equation model-based approach

PurposeThe rapid evolution of technological infrastructure and analytical capabilities has facilitated the integration of big data analytics (BDA) across various sectors. This study aims to investigate the suitability of implementing BDA within academic libraries, addressing the demanding need for effective data utilization in contemporary educational environments.Design/methodology/approachThe research is grounded in five critical components: data-driven culture, organizational infrastructure, employee responsibilities, management capabilities and the successful deployment of technology for BDA. An extensive literature review led to the development of a Likert scale-based questionnaire distributed on social media to collect data from university librarians in Pakistan. The authors were able to collect the data from 211 librarians. Descriptive statistics were employed to analyze the variables, while confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted using the AMOS to validate the research model.FindingsThe findings from the measurement model reveal significant positive correlations among all five components, underscoring their collective importance in facilitating the implementation of BDA. This formation is essential for addressing the evolving needs and academic requirements of users in the context of big data in a digital environment.Research limitations/implicationsThe study acknowledges limitations about its focus on a single country’s perspective, which may affect the generalizability of the findings regarding the implementation process of BDA in academic libraries.Originality/valueThis research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by highlighting the practices and capabilities of librarians in the era of big data as well as the requisite organizational infrastructure for the effective implementation of analytics in academic libraries.

An Investigation on the Digital Collection Development Competency and Training Needs of Library Professionals in Pakistan

This study investigates the specific requirements for training and enhancing digital collections management for library professionals in Pakistan. The approach is centered around three primary objectives: ascertaining the professional training prerequisites for library professionals overseeing digital collections; assessing the extent of progress in digital collections within university libraries; and pinpointing the obstacles encountered by librarians and library professionals in this domain. The findings indicate a significant deficiency in resources and training for professionals, highlighting the need for specialized training in areas such as digital copyright and preservation techniques. Recommendations for enhancing digital library services encompass more financial resources and targeted training programs. This study addresses significant subjects such as misunderstandings regarding digital libraries, inadequate technological infrastructure, a shortage of skilled workers, copyright difficulties, cultural and digital obstacles, and financial constraints. Resolving these challenges not only has the potential to expedite the establishment of digital libraries in Pakistan but also has the capacity to serve as a model for other developing countries.

Digital transformation of reading behaviors among allied health students: insights from medical libraries in Pakistan

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to assess the digital transformation of students' reading preferences and behaviors, considering the significant impact of digital resources accessible through the internet among allied health students. Design/methodology/approach The researchers used a structured questionnaire to collect data. The study focused on undergraduate allied health students from medical universities in Pakistan. The researchers used a convenient sampling technique. Data analysis was performed using statistical software packages R and SPSS. Findings The results indicate that allied health students frequently use databases, e-books and e-journals to fulfil their academics and research needs, aiding in the acquisition of up-to-date information and supporting various academic research pursuits. The study emphasizes the positive effects on the reading habits of allied health students, attributing these improvements to factors such as enhanced online databases, a broader array of materials and the integration of digital tools. However, challenges arise from the limited availability of relevant e-resources and the dispersion of information across various library sources. Originality/value This study provides valuable insights into the availability and utilization of e-resources among allied health students in Pakistan. It highlights the crucial role that digital resources play in shaping reading behaviors within the educational landscape. This study holds significance as it contributes to educational enhancement, proves beneficial for the improvement of university library resources and services and aids in the development of policies in health-care education.

Personality Traits of Academic Librarians and Their Knowledge Acquisition and Application Behavior

Abstract This study investigated the effect of the Big Five personality traits (extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, neuroticism, and openness) on knowledge acquisition and application by Pakistani university librarians. To increase their impact in academic institutions, it is imperative to examine how people acquire and apply knowledge within the field of librarianship. This study employed a quantitative research approach based on the survey research method. The Big Five personality inventory designed by John and Srivastava was adopted, however, measurement items related to knowledge acquisition and application behavior were developed with the help of the existing literature. The study population comprised academic librarians working in the university libraries of Pakistan, with a census sampling method used to collect data and 357 completed questionnaires received. The results indicated that extraversion, agreeableness, and openness to experience positively affect the university librarian’s knowledge acquisition, while neuroticism has a negative effect. The findings also revealed that extraversion and openness to experience positively affects academic librarians’ knowledge application behavior while neuroticism has a negative effective, however, conscientiousness and agreeableness personality traits were found to be insignificant predictors of the same. This study highlights the significant personality features contributing to knowledge acquisition and application behavior in academic libraries from a developing country’s perspective.

Acquisition Management in the University Libraries of Pakistan: A Provincial Perspective

Acquisition management is the kind of strategy that university libraries adopt to assist the information needs of the client population. This study attempted to understand the acquisition management in the university libraries in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region of Pakistan. The study adopted a survey method and included all those well-established public and private sector universities that were chartered by the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and recognized by HEC until December 31, 2012, in the province (Public = 17 and Private = 9; Total = 26 universities). The population of this study was the senior library professionals working in the central libraries of the main campuses of all the universities in the province. The study’s findings show that the acquisition management in the university libraries in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is more focused on fulfilling the curriculum requirements of the parent institutions to which they are attached.

Role of e-learning for the continuing professional development of university librarians of Pakistan to deliver value-added services: an explanatory study

Purpose This study aims to identify the role of e-learning for the continuing professional development (CPD) of university librarians in Pakistan to deliver value-added library services. Design/methodology/approach Explanatory sequential design was applied to address this study’s objectives. First, quantitative data were gathered from 341 respondents working in 244 universities and then qualitative data were gathered through an interview guide from 27 subjects working in different university libraries of Pakistan. Findings The findings of this study revealed that respondents realized the benefits of e-learning for continuing professional development positively. E-learning enabled university librarians to perform IT-based tasks through an adequate usage of digital technologies. The findings also manifested that the majority of the respondents faced the challenges of the lack of technical support, and inadequate organizational support to adopt e-learning for CPD. Results displayed e-learning courses should be conducted by local trainers. Originality/value This study has provided pertinent theoretical, practical and social contributions by identifying the role of e-learning for the CPD of university librarians of Pakistan to deliver value-added services.

Perceived Risks of Social Media in the University Libraries of Pakistan: An Empirical Investigation

Purpose The research on social media adoption and use is on the rise in Pakistan. However, researchers did not focus on investigating the risks associated with social media use for library services. So, this study examines perceived risks of library services through social media in the university libraries of Pakistan. Also, suggest possible solution to overcome the observed risks. Methodology Using a structured questionnaire, a national-level survey was conducted. Respondents of the study were professional librarians designated as Head or Chief or University librarian representing their organization. The study was conducted in an organizational perspective and required a single response from each organization. The questionnaire was distributed among 181 university librarians working both in public and private sector university libraries in Pakistan. However, valid responses were 124 (69%). Findings The Pakistani university libraries are using social media platforms for library services. However, the research findings reveal that there are several risks to offering library services through social media. Among the responded libraries, the libraries that do not use social media platforms for service delivery feel riskier compared to the libraries that offer library services through social media. It is also found that there is no formal policy on social media usage in the libraries. Practical implications The research findings provide valuable insight to university administration, library social media users, and developers on how to consider the identified risks while designing state-of-the-art library services through social media. Also, the study findings may be easily generalized at national level due to the coverage of the whole population. Originality This is a novel study that explores the perceived social media risks associated with using social media to offer library services. Also, the study is first attempt that covers whole population through a census survey in an organizational perspective.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications and usage among the LIS professionals of Pakistan

Artificial intelligence (AI) is an important and emerging sub-discipline in information technology that is progressively being implemented in every field. It is gradually being introduced to support new forms of research, discovery, and reuse of library contents in advanced and interesting ways. University libraries have the potential to substantially improve their library services through the implementation of sophisticated AI tools. This study explored the application of AI tools in the university libraries of Pakistan, as well as draw a comparison in the usage of AI tools between public and private sector universities. This is a quantitative study and data is collected through survey methodology. We used purposive sampling to collect the data from 175 university libraries. The collected data was analyzed using a statistical package for social sciences (SPSS-version 22). Findings indicate that while AI-based services are starting to be introduced into university libraries in Pakistan, no university library has implemented the full suite of AI-based tools. Natural language processing, voice searching, and chatbots are the most familiar and popular tools currently used in libraries. However, robotics technology is rarely used with a mean value of (1.62) because of the financial investment and high level of IT skills required. We found that private university libraries are using AI tools more as compared with public sector university libraries. The study concludes with several key recommendations, including closer collaboration between the library and the respective university IT department for technical support and assistance; improved financial support and ICT infrastructure to establish AI technology-based library services; and training development plans for library staff. Insights gained from this study should contribute to the capacity of Pakistani University librarians and their staff to maximize the full potential of AI within their institutions. The research implications are helpful to library leaders and policymakers in building a policy for AI-based technology in their respective university libraries.

Selection of Library Materials in the University Libraries of Pakistan: A Survey of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Selection process is naturally at the heart of collection development. Sound book selection policies and practices devised from the information needs of the users’ community play a fundamental role in the development of strong collection. This current study was an attempt to investigate the selection policies and procedures adopted by, the activities and behaviors exhibited by, and the outcomes produced by the university libraries of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The study adopted a survey method and included all those well-established public and private sector universities, which were chartered by the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and recognized by HEC, till 31st December, 2012 in the province (Public = 17 and Private = 9, Total 26 universities). The population of this study was the senior library professionals working in the central libraries of the main campuses of all the universities of the province. Findings of the study show that university libraries of the province adopt a variety of methods for selecting library materials including selection through purchase committees, centralized selection by the central libraries and decentralized selection. However, centralized selection procedures with faculty influence is more prominent and dominating in all the universities of the province. The study suggested a dire need of collaboration between faculty and library professionals for effective collection development in the university libraries of Pakistan.

Big Data Analytics Implementation and Practices in Medical Institute Libraries of Pakistan

Abstract The aim of this research was to analyze the contemporary practices of Big Data Analytics (BDA) in medical libraries of Pakistan and to explore ways for its implementation in these libraries. A cross-sectional study was carried out among medical librarians in Pakistan by using a Modified Technology Acceptance Model (MTAM) model, with collected data analyzed using Smart-PLS. The results revealed that lack of resources, technical expertise, and some other factors were significant hurdles in smooth implementation of BDA. It is concluded that the perception of medical librarians about adoption of BDA is very encouraging, which resultantly will improve the quality of healthcare services in the country.

The Scenario of Human Resources in Public Libraries: A Pakistani Perspective

ABSTRACT This study analyzed the human resources of public libraries in Pakistan. It was observed that LIS professionals administered most libraries; nevertheless, a sizable number of libraries were managed by personnel with no professional background. There needed to be more staff in public libraries, including LIS, IT, and nonprofessional staff. In the information age and global economy, our libraries fall short of preparing the population for the future, let alone the present. The concerned authorities should enhance the library’s workforce; professionals should administer the library to offer better services and IT experts should be hired to solve IT related issues.

Unveiling the Green Impact: Comparing LEED-Certified and Traditional Libraries in Pakistan's with End User Satisfaction through Environmental Design Insights

Unveiling the Green Impact: Comparing LEED-Certified and Traditional Libraries in Pakistan's with End User Satisfaction through Environmental Design Insights

Developing a union catalogue of Pakistani University libraries: status, problems, and prospects

PurposeThis study aims to examine the status, explores the hurdles and identifies the prospects for developing a union catalogue of university libraries in Lahore, Pakistan.Design/methodology/approachFollowing a quantitative research approach, a questionnaire was developed from literature and authors’ experience. After ensuring its validity and reliability, data were collected from librarians after the census. A total of 105 librarians were approached, of whom 73 (71%) responded to the survey.FindingsUniversity libraries in Lahore are well organized, have adequate collections and information technology-literate staff, are well automated, have good internet connections, are equipped with integrated software, follow cataloguing rules and MARC standards; however, the absence of standardized software, lack of funds, absence of uniform policy, professional workload and absence of standardized vocabulary are significant challenges. Private-sector librarians reported facing more challenges. Librarians consider all prospects vital for developing a union catalogue. These prospects include the availability of relevant information, incentives to librarians, coordination with librarians, a realization that sharing is caring, the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan taking initiative and librarians’ training.Research limitations/implicationsUniversity librarians in Lahore are ready to cooperate with the development of a union catalogue; however, they seek support from higher authorities, professional library associations and the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is the first of its kind that examines the status, explores the hurdles and identifies the prospects for developing a union catalogue of university libraries in Lahore. It would lead to the development of a union catalogue of university libraries in Pakistan.

Perceptions of Academic Librarians Toward Open Source Library System (OSLS): Case Study of Pakistan

ABSTRACT Advanced technology has brought tremendous changes in our daily lives; academic libraries are changing agents of modern technologies and experimenting with innovations for library operations. Open Source Library System (OSLS) is a computer software with free source code and a license that permits users to use, change, redistribute and improve according to their needs. The study uses a quantitative survey approach with 45 questions and a Likert-type scale. A random sample approach was used to collect data from the academic librarians in Pakistan. A survey was designed in Google Forms and shared with n = 300 librarians via personal e-mails, Facebook Messenger, and WhatsApp to reach a diverse community of librarians in Pakistan. N = 282 questionnaires returned with 94.33%. The collected data was analyzed using SPSS 26. The result shows that the adoption rate of OSLS is still in its infancy and is slowing for many reasons, like lack of technical equipment, inadequate funds, lack of IT skills, digital resilience of Librarians and interest of stakeholders. The present study will pave the way for practitioner librarians, research scholars, stakeholders and policymakers in Pakistan and beyond.

Digital preservation practices for information resources in university libraries of Pakistan

PurposeThe digital contents (d-contents) are vulnerable to various threats either natural or manmade. Digital preservation is the plethora of a wide array of strategies necessary for the long-term preservation of digital objects. This study was carried out to assess the digital preservation practices for information resources in university libraries of Pakistan.Design/methodology/approachA quantitative survey based on a structured questionnaire was carried out to conduct the study. The questionnaire containing two sets of strategies (general and technical) was distributed amongst the whole population and received 90% response rate.FindingsOverall, progressive implementation of general digital preservation practices was noted in these libraries like checking the digital collections for viruses, keeping the digital media in fire/water/theft proof locations, restricting unauthorized access, maintaining ideal humidity and temperature, and checking the digital media for functionality. Amongst the technical practices, only replication was in practice at a progressive rate, followed by metadata recording and media refreshing that was sometimes practiced in these libraries. The other technical practices were rarely or never practiced in these libraries. Significant variances in general and technical digital preservation practices were noted based on their physical locations (regional distribution).Research limitations/implicationsThe study contributes a comprehensive set of digital preservation practices divided into general and technical types to conduct similar studies in other parts of the world.Practical implicationsThe findings stress the need for national and institutional policies, funding streams and skill enhancement of library staff.Originality/valueThe study fills the literature gap and contributes a comprehensive set of digital preservation practices divided into general and technical types to conduct similar studies in other parts of the world.Peer reviewThe peer-review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/OIR-02-2023-0074

Provision of research support services across the research lifecycle in university libraries

This study aims to identify current offerings of research support services (RSS) by Pakistani university libraries to their research community at various phases of the research lifecycle. It also offers data on the future planning of libraries about RSS and compares the results with international studies to gauge the progress of Pakistani university libraries in this direction. This study used a quantitative design to collect data from 138 reference/head librarians of university libraries across four research lifecycle stages. The Cronbach alpha reliability of the questionnaire was 0.95, and the data were analyzed through Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Frequency analysis and the Chi-square test were used to draw inferences. The results indicated that more than 50% of university libraries in Pakistan were providing most of the research support services associated with all stages of the research lifecycle. The majority of libraries offer traditional research support services as compared to advanced services which have been developed in recent times across the globe. The results of the study further indicated that private-sector university libraries were offering a higher level of research support services than public-sector university libraries. Furthermore, libraries associated with public sector universities showed more inclination toward offering these services as a part of their future planning. This study examined the current status of Pakistani university libraries’ research support services, grouped according to each stage of the research lifecycle. The study is an amalgamation of traditional and advanced research support services in order to give new dimensions to this area and the structured instrument designed for this study may be used by other researchers to conduct similar studies in their social setting. The findings will aid public sector university libraries in their efforts to provide their research communities with greater research support services. The results will be valuable to university and library administrators for strategic planning to meet the community’s need for research-based services.

Analysis of the relationship of CRM-based library services with head librarians' personal and academic variables: a survey of university libraries in Pakistan

Purpose This study aimed to examine the relationship between customer relationship management (CRM)-based library services and head librarians' personal and academic variables. The status of CRM-based library services in the university libraries of Pakistan was also assessed.Design/methodology/approach A cross-sectional survey research design and quantitative research approach were applied. A structured questionnaire was emailed to the heads librarians of all university libraries recognized by the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan, and the response rate was 74 percent.Findings The analysis showed that a relationship to CRM-based library services was confirmed by the head librarians' age, academic qualification, professional experience, CRM awareness and training. Moreover, several CRM-based library services such as face-to-face interaction, current awareness services, orientation for new users, coordination through e-mail services, special goodwill to regular users, make telephone calls, complaints/suggestions boxes, online services, provision of a conducive learning environment, user education, selective dissemination of information services, users' participation in the collection and service development, ask a librarian services and users' help desk services were currently being practiced by the university libraries.Originality/value This study is a valuable resource for developing user-centered library services and culture. Findings are helpful in enhancing CRM applications in libraries and making their users satisfied and loyal. This study makes a significant contribution to the body of literature and knowledge on library CRM.

Investigating applications of Artificial Intelligence in university libraries of Pakistan: An empirical study

This study aims to investigate the applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the university libraries of Pakistan. Following the explanatory sequential mixed-methods approach, this study was completed in two phases. In the first phase, quantitative data was collected from 237 university librarians from across Pakistan. In the second phase, 10 purposefully selected university librarians were interviewed. The results reveal that Pakistani university libraries are using limited AI-based library services including text-to-speech and speech-to-text technologies, Google Assistant to search by voice command, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) system for self-checkout, check-in, and security purposes, and intelligent data analysis for collection management. This study explored key factors that influence implementation of AI applications including highly integrated technological infrastructure, funding/cost associated with AI, collaboration between AI experts and professionals, and library users' feedback. The major identified challenges were the requirement of a highly networked and integrated environment, lack of budget, high cost of AI technologies, and lack of staff expertise. This study claims to implement the first comprehensive survey of AI applications in Pakistani university libraries at the national level. The research findings would support library and university administrators to integrate AI applications in libraries not only in Pakistan but also in other developing countries.