UNIVERSITY OF SINDH JAMSHORO

PhD Thesis

DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY AND ITS IMPACT ON LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SERVICES AND

RESOURCES IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR UNIVERSITIES OF PAKISTAN

By

SAEED ULLAH JAN

A thesis submitted to the University of Sindh in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the award of degree of Doctor of Philosophy

in Library and Information Science

DEPARTMENT OF LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE AND ARCHIVE STUDIES

UNIVERSITY OF SINDH, JAMSHORO- PAKISTAN

2011

II

CERTIFICATE

Certified that Mr. Saeed Ullah Jan S/o Mr. Karim Khan has carried out PhD

research on the topic “DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY AND ITS IMPACT ON

LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SERVICES AND RESOURCES IN THE

PUBLIC SECTOR UNIVERSITIES OF PAKISTAN” under my supervision and

that his work is original and distinct. The thesis is worthy of presentation for the

award of degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Library and Information Science of the

University of Sindh.

Prof. Dr. Rafia A Sheikh Supervisor  

  

III

DECLARATION I declare that “DIGITAL TECHNOLGY AND ITS IMPACT ON LIBRARY

AND INFORMATION SERVICES AND RESOURCES IN THE PUBLIC

SECTOR UNIVERSITIES OF PAKISTAN” is my own work and that all the

sources I have used or quoted have been indicated and acknowledged by means of

complete references.

Signature………………………………. Date….........……………………

IV

DEDICATION

To my little

LATE SON

TALHA SAEED KHAN

WHOM I LOST DURING

THE COURSE OF THIS STUDY

V

LIST OF ACRONYMS

AACR Anglo-American Cataloguing Rules AJK & NA Azad Jammu and Kashmir & Northern Areas ACS American Chemical Society ALA American Library Association ASPT American Society of Physics Teachers APAN Asia Pacific Advanced Network API Applications Programming Interface APS American Physical Society ASCE American Society of Civil Engineering ASCII American Standard Code for Information Interchange ASLIB Association of Special Libraries and Information Bureaux BBS Bulletin Board Service BCR Bar Code Reader BLDDS British Library Documents Delivery Service BULIMS Bahria University Library Information Management System BNB British National Bibliography CAS Current Awareness Service CCD Charged-Coupled Devices CDS/ISIS Computerized Documentation System-Integrated Set for

Information Systems CPU Central Processing Unit CIP Catalogue in Publication CD-ROM Compact Disc/ Read Only Memory

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COM Computer Output Microfilm CV Co-efficient of Variation DAI Degree Awarding Institute DDC Dewey Decimal Classification DLIS Department of Library and Information Science DLP Digital Library Program DVDs Digital Versatile Disc ERNET Education and Research Network ETD E-Theses and Dissertations FAQs Frequently Asked Questions GDP Gross Domestic Product ICC Integrated Circuit Card ICT Information Communication Technology IFLA International Federation of Library Associations ICT Information Communication Technology IT Information Technology ILL Inter Library Loan ISBD International Standard Bibliographic Description ISBN International Standard Book Number HEC Higher Education Commission HTML Hyper Text Markup Language KP Khyber Pakhtunkhwa LC Library of Congress LCD Liquid Crystal Display LAN Local Area Network

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LIBCOOP Library Cooperation Group LISTA Library, Information Science and Technology Abstracts MARC Machine Readable Cataloguing MICR Magnetic Ink Character Recognition NCIP National Circulation Interchange Protocol NAS National Academy of Science NDLTD Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertation NREN National Research & Education Network NTC National Telecommunication Corporation NUML National University of Modern Languages OCLC Online Computer Library Center OCR Optical Mark Recognition OPAC Online Public Access Catalogue Pak LAG Pakistan Library Automation Group PASTIC Pakistan Scientific and Technological Information Centres PC Personal Computer PDF Portable Document Format PERN Pakistan Education and Research Network PERI Program for Enhancement of Research Information PhD Doctor of Philosophy PLA Pakistan Library Association PSLM Pakistan Social and Living Standards Measurement PSUL Public Sector University Libraries PRR Pakistan Research Repository PTCL Pakistan Telecommunications Co. Ltd.

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RAM Random Access Memory R & D Research and Development RFID Radio Frequency Identification SPSS Statistical Package for Social Sciences SD Standard Deviation SDI Selective Dissemination of Information TA/DA Travelling Allowance/ Dearness Allowance UNDP United Nations Development Program UNESCO United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization UPS Un-interrupted Power Supply URL Universal Resource Locator WINISIS Windows version - Integrated Set for Information Systems WORM Write Once Read Many

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

All praise belongs to the Almighty Allah because without His Blessing this study

would not have been completed.

Many people were involved in the undertaking of this study. It is not possible to

mention all of them by name. However, a few deserve to be mentioned here.

First and foremost, I appreciate the tremendous efforts of Prof. Dr. Rafia A Sheikh,

my supervisor. Very special thanks go to her, whose guidance and suggestions made

me work through the writing of this dissertation. Her keen interest in my work, valued

comments and supervision were a great source of encouragement.

There were friends and well-wishers who assisted me in various ways: academically,

socially and administratively. Without their support, I would not have been able to

pursue this research project. These include: Prof. Dr. Allah Rakio Butt, Prof. Shereen

Gul Soomro, Prof.Manzoor Ahmad Hajano, Dr. Nisar Ahmad Subhpoto from the

Department of Library and Information Science University of Sindh. My thanks also

go to Prof. Hamid Rehman (my honorable teacher and Chairman Department of

Library and Information Science, Peshawar University). I thank them all for their co-

operation.

I would also like to express my gratitude to all my colleagues working in various

public sector universities who had responded by filling out the questionnaires and

agreed to be interviewed by me as a follow-up to the questionnaire. These include

librarians and select users/ patrons.

This study was made possible through the financial assistance provided to me by the

Higher Education Commission (HEC) Islamabad under Indigenous Scholarship Scheme.

At the same time, my employer, Department of Higher Education, Archives and Libraries

Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa granted me study leave, which provided me the

opportunity to come to the University of Sindh to pursue my doctorate program. I am

very grateful to HEC and my employer for their material and moral help.

Finally, my sincere thanks and appreciation go to my beloved parents, wife, brothers,

sisters and my kids: Hamza Saeed Khan, Ali Saeed Khan, Mamoona Saeed and Dua

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Saeed. Without their prayers, sacrifice, patience and support, the completion of this

work would not have been possible.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

CERTIFICATE ……………………………………………………………………..II

DECLARARTION .................................................................................................... III

DEDICATION........................................................................................................... IV

LIST OF ACRONYMS .............................................................................................. V

ACKNOWLEGMENT ............................................................................................. IX

TABLE OF CONTENTS ........................................................................................ XI

LIST OF TABLES ............................................................................................... XVII

ABSTRACT .............................................................................................................. XX

CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION

1.1 Introduction…………………………………………… ....................................1

1.2 University libraries in Pakistan……………………… ......................................4

1.3 Digitization…………………………………… ................................................7

1.4 Digital library .....................................................................................................8

1.5 Digital Library Program (DLP) in Pakistan.………………………………. 10

1.5.1 Historical background …………………………………….. 10

1.5.2 Components of DLP ………………………………………. 10

1.5.3 Allocation of financial aid ………………………………… 18

1.5.4 Recapitulation and monitoring ……………………………. 19

1.5.5 Impact of DLP on research output in Pakistan ……………. 19

1.6 Need of networking of university libraries in Pakistan …………………… 20

1.7 Pakistan Education and Research Network(PERN)……………………… 21

1.8 Video conferencing …………………………………………………….. 22

1.9 Pakistan Research Repository (PRR) ……………………………..................24

1.10 Automation of library procedures ....................................................................25

1.10.1 Why library automation? .................................................................... 26

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1.10.2 Barriers to library automation…………… ..........................................26

1.11 Areas of library automation……………… .....................................................28

1.11.1 Acquisition procedures …………………………………………… 28

1.11.2 Technical processing of documents ………………………………. 29

1.11.3 Circulation procedures ……………………………………………. 30

1.11.4 Serials control …………………………………………………….. 31

1.11.5 Stock verification …………………………………………………. 32

1.12 Automated services to users .............................................................................32

1.12.1 Current Awareness Service (CAS)……………. .................................32

1.12.2 Selective Dissemination of Information(SDI)…. ................................33

1.12.3 Reference services……………………………. ..................................33

1.12.4 Content page services………………………… ..................................33

1.12.5 Internet services………………………………. ..................................34

1.13 Impact of emerging technologies on university libraries .................................34

1.13.1 Impact of digital technology on library services ..................................35

1.13.2 Impact of digital technology on library resources ...............................36

1.14 Statement of the problem .....................................................................37

1.14.1 Objectives of the study .........................................................................37

1.14.2 Hypotheses ...........................................................................................37

1.14.3 Need and Significance of the study .....................................................37

1.14.4 Definitions of terms .............................................................................38

CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Literature review: an introduction ...................................................................39

2.2 Digital technology and library automation: an introduction ...........................39

2.3 Emerging library technologies in developed and developing countries ..........44

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2.4 Emerging library technologies in Pakistan .....................................................52

CHAPTER THREE: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1 Need and significance of the study .................................................................58

3.2 Research design ...............................................................................................58

3.3 Sources of data .................................................................................................59

3.4 Data Collection methods ..................................................................................60

3.4.1 Questionnaire survey ...........................................................................60

3.4.2 Personal visit and observation of libraries ...........................................61

3.5 Data Analysis techniques .................................................................................61

3.5.1 Percentage analysis ..............................................................................61

3.5.2 Basic statistical tools ............................................................................61

3.5.3 Chi-square test .....................................................................................62

CHAPTER FOUR: ANALYSIS OF DATA AND INTERPRETATION

4.1 Librarians' response towards the application and impact of emerging

technologies on public sector university libraries ............................................63

4.1.1 Available services, resources and digital technology infrastructure in

the university libraries .........................................................................63

4.1.1.1 Broad-spectrum information …… ...........................................64

4.1.1.2 Available services provided by the P.S.U libraries .................70

4.1.1.3 Available resources in the P.S.U libraries of Pakistan .............82

4.1.1.4 Library software used for the operation of hardware ...............97

4.1.1.5 Database of library holdings ....................................................98

4.1.1.6 Websites of the university libraries ………………………...99

4.1.1.7 Physical Resources.................................................................100

4.1.2 Impact of digital technology on library services and resources in the

public sector universities (P.S.U) of Pakistan ....................................102

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4.1.2.1 Technology based services are better than manual

services? ………………………………………… 102

4.1.2.2 Technology based technical services have a positive

impact on library services and resources?............... 104

4.1.2.3 Attitude of university librarians towards the application

of Digital Technology (DT) in the P.S.U libraries of

Pakistan …………………………………………… 105

4.1.2.4 Networking of P.S. university libraries in Pakistan.. 106

4.1.2.5 Librarians’ opinion in response to various queries.. 107

4.1.2.6 Barriers to the application of emerging library

technologies in the university libraries …………….109

4.1.2.7 Comparing advantages of digital/ electronic resources

over conventional print version of library resources 110

4.1.2.8 Librarians’ reply to an open ended question …… 113

4.2 Users' response towards the application and impact of emerging technologies

on university libraries ....................................................................................115

4.2.1 General information ...........................................................................115

4.2.2 Use of library and information services resources /utilities

/ tools/devices ....................................................................................118

4.2.3 Rating the quantity and quality of the traditional learning resources in

university libraries .............................................................................120

4.2.4 Analyses of attitude of users towards the application and impact of

digital technology on university library services and resources .......122

4.2.5 Users’ opinion about significant changes in the speed of academic/

research work by using digital library technologies .........................126

4.2.6 User’s feedback to an open- ended query ..........................................128

References .................................................................................................................129

CHAPTER FIVE: SUMMARY OF FINDINGS AND SUGGESTIONS

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5.1 Summary of the major findings .....................................................................130

5.1.1 General information ...........................................................................130

5.1.2 Library services ..................................................................................131

5.1.3 Library resources ...............................................................................132

5.1.4 Technology- based resources .............................................................135

5.1.5 Physical services …………………………………………………... 135

5.2 Digital technology and university library services and resources ...................... 137

5.3 Users' response towards the application and impact of emerging technologies

on university libraries ....................................................................................141

5.4 Suggestions for improving modern university library and information services

and resources in Pakistan ...............................................................................144

Bibliography ............................................................................................................148

Suggestions for further studies ............................................................ 165

Contribution to knowledge......................................................................................166

APPENDIX-A

Questionnaire for Chief Librarians .......................................................................167

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APPENDEX-B

Questionnaire for users ...........................................................................................184

APPENDIX-C

A structured interview -schedule with chief librarians ........................................192

APPENDIX –D

Definitions ………………………………………………………………… 193

APPENDIX- E

Functions of library automation ……………………… ...................................... 196

APPENDIX- F

Emerging library technologies ………………………… ...................................... 197

APPENDIX- G

Online Public Access Catalogue …………………………. ................................ 200

APPENDIX-H

Overview of the public sector university libraries in Pakistan ...........................201

LIST OF TABLES

Table 4.1: Response rate of participated universities ............................................64

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Table 4.2: Establishment of Public Sector Universities (PSU). .................................... 65

Table 4.3: Commencement of library automation in PSU libraries .....................65

Table 4.4: Status of library automation in PSU libraries of Pakistan ..................66

Table 4.5: Users’ visit to libraries ........................................................................67

Table 4.6: No. Of users visiting digital library sections of PSU universities ......69

Table 4.7: General services provided by PSU libraries Under study ....................70

Table 4.8: Technical services offered by the PSU libraries .......................................... 71

Table 4.9: Satisfaction about the usage of technical services ...............................72

Table 4.10: Availability of internet connectivity ....................................................73

Table 4.11: Speed of internet connections .............................................................74

Table 4.12: Computers having internet connections ..............................................75

Table 2.13: Status of internet "whether internet is fee based or free?". ..................76

Table 2.14: Provision of user education .................................................................77

Table 4.15: Frequency and timings of user education ...........................................78

Table 4.16: Duration of user education program ....................................................79

Table 4.17: Who and how to conduct user education ............................................81

Table 4.18: Impact of user education program on users’ library services and

resources ..............................................................................................82

Table 4.19: Learning resources ..............................................................................82

Table 4.20: Strength of library staff .......................................................................85

Table 4.21: Qualification of the library professionals ...........................................86

Table 4.22: Nature of human resources .................................................................87

Table 4.23: Information about the no. Of training received by the library

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professionals in emerging library technologies ..................................88

Table 4.24: Impact of trainings on human resources .............................................89

Table 4.25: Additional qualification required for incharge automation section .....89

Table 4.26: University library budget from 2005-2010 .........................................90

Table 4.27: Library budget for automation sections of university libraries under

study ....................................................................................................91

Table 4.28: Views of librarians about satisfaction of library automation budget ..93

Table 4.29: Views of librarians about allocation of library automation budget ....93

Table 4.30: Technology based resources/hardware ...............................................94

Table 4.31: Library software used for the operation of hardware ..........................97

Table 4.32: Database of library holdings ...............................................................99

Table 4.33: Website of university libraries ...........................................................100

Table 4.34: Views about physical resources in comparison with a modern

university library ................................................................................101

Table 4.35: Technology based services are better than manual services .............103

Table 4.36: Why technology-based services are better than manual services .....103

Table 4.37: Impact of technology based technical services on university libraries

............................................................................................................104

Table 4.38: Attitude of librarians towards the application of emerging library

technology .........................................................................................105

Table 4.39: Networking of public sector university libraries at in Pakistan ........106

Table 4.40: Librarians’ opinion in response to various queries ...................................108

Table 4.41: Barriers to emerging library technologies ..........................................109

XIX

Table 4.42: Comparing advantages of digital/electronic resources over

conventional print version of library resources .................................111

Table 4.43: Status of university library users........................................................115

Table 4.44: Purpose of library visits by the users ................................................116

Table 4.45: Frequency of library visits by the users ............................................ 117

Table 4.46: Average time spent by the users in the library on a visit .................118

Table 4.47: Use of library services /resources /utilities/tools / devices ................119

Table 4.48: Rating the quantity and quality of the traditional learning resources in

university libraries ..............................................................................121

Table 4.49: Users’ opinion about skills and expertise to use technology based

services and resources .......................................................................122

Table 4.50: Users’ opinion about training/orientation .........................................124

Table 4.51: Purpose of internet use .......................................................................125

Table 4.52: User's opinion about significant change in speed of academic/ research

work ..................................................................................................126

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ABSTRACT

This research project is a case study of the public sector university libraries in

Pakistan. This thesis investigates and documents the impact of digital technology on

library and information services and resources in the public sector universities of the

country. All 73 public sector universities in Pakistan have been covered.

Questionnaires, interviews, observation, web analyses and documentary sources of

information were the major data collection techniques.

The findings of the study reveal that the implementations of emerging library

technologies have positive impact on library services and resources in the public

sector universities in Pakistan. It was pinpointed that inadequate funding for library

automation, lack of skilled library professionals, lack of user education programs on

emerging library technologies, frequent power failure are the major barriers to the

implementation of latest technologies in university libraries of the country. The

findings also reflect that public sector university libraries of Islamabad and Punjab are

far ahead in modernization of library services and resources as compared with Sindh,

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir& Northern Areas.

Recommendations are given at the end. Among other things, it is suggested that

separate budget for automation and digitization, recruitment of IT skilled human

resources, supply of powerful generators/ UPS, provision of latest hardware and

standardized library software, revision of LIS curriculum, systematic planning for

modernization of university libraries, digitization of library own publications,

provision of high bandwidth of internet speed connections , effective periodic

training for library professionals and continuing user education on modern library

trends for library users are the tools which can be used for the improvement of

modern library culture in the universities of Pakistan .

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CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Introduction

This chapter throws light on the subject under study, ‘Digital technology and its impact

on library and information services and resources in the public sector universities of

Pakistan’. All related areas including introduction, role of university libraries in the

promotion of higher education, need for implementation of emerging technologies in

university libraries, hardware and software requirements for automation and digitization

processes, areas of digital technology application in university libraries, various services

provided under automated technology-based environment and National Digital Library

Program (NDLP).

According to the current Pakistan Social and Living Standards Survey (2008-2009), the

average literacy rate for both males and females is 75%. The gender-wise rate is 69% for

males and 44% for females. The Report reflects that literacy rate is higher in urban than

in rural areas of Pakistan. Literacy rate for men is higher than women. The province-

wise report reveals that literacy rate in Punjab and Sindh is 59%, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is

50% and Balochistan is 45%. It was also observed that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and

Sindh have achieved considerable improvement during 2007-2008 to 2008-2009.

According to a statistical report (2010), the allocation of budget for education in Pakistan

was as follow:

Financial year % of GDP

2006-2007 2.5

2007-2008 2.47

2008-2009 2.1

2009-2010 2.0

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UNESCO’s EFA (Education For All) Global Monitoring Report submitted in 2009

reveals that budget allocation for promotion of education in other South Asian countries

is as follow:

Country Year % GDP

Bangladesh 2008-09 2.6

Nepal 2008-09 3.2

India 2008-09 3.3

Iran 2008-09 5.2

Maldives 2008-09 8.3

This simply shows that we lag behind even Bangladesh.

With the establishment of Higher Education Commission (HEC) in Islamabad, the

Government of Pakistan raised the budget for higher education in the country. Several

projects have been launched for the enhancement of quality higher education. The

financial condition of Government of Pakistan is in descending order for the last five

years. This financial constraint has affected the higher education sector of the country.

During the financial year 2007-2008, non- developmental budget has been reduced. The

same financial level has been maintained in the financial year 2008-2009. With the

financial assistance of the World Bank, an increase has been made in the funding of

higher education sector for development expenditure in the financial year 2009-2010.

It is reported that with the inception of Higher Education Commission, considerable

increase in the students’ enrolment in universities of Pakistan has been observed. The

statistical data reveals that the enrolled students at the universities were 803,507 in the

year 2008-09, which shows an increase of 190.94% over the total enrolment of 2001-

2002 which was 276,274. This also reflects that 354% increase has been recorded in the

number of PhDs produced (624) in the year 2010 as compared with the number of PhDs

(176) produced in the year 2000.

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Pakistani universities constitute one of the largest higher education systems in the

Muslim world, with 132 university level institutions which comprise of 73 universities

in the public sector and 59 in the private sector.

Education is a tool used for stamping out poverty and expediting the pace of progress of a

nation in the right direction. It brings about happiness and awareness. It provides an

opportunity to the masses to change their lifestyles and can also change the behavior and

outlook of the people. Education is the gateway to explore new ways of prosperity. It is

the most influential instrument to get rid of the social evils of the society. In order to get

quality and standard education, the establishment of well-resourced academic institutions

is need of the day. In Pakistan, the situation is changing for the better. However, the rapid

change in the establishment of academic institutions especially universities and degree-

awarding institutions, rapid increase in the students’ enrolment, an emphasis on modern

teaching methodologies, attention of Government towards research productivity,

introduction of modern technologies and the interest of Higher Education Commission in

the advancement of higher education have brought about a reasonable change in the

promotion of higher education in the country.

In order to achieve the objectives of a university or a degree awarding institution, the

establishment of a well organized, well-resourced modern library is of great importance.

The university library is considered to be the heart of the university. It provides a

platform to the students, faculty members and researchers to fulfill their information

needs. The emergence of modern library technologies has dramatically changed the

nature of services and resources of the libraries. The increasing demands of users have

also been changed with the changing library environment, with the emergence of new

technologies and with the awareness brought about by the media.

The university library was regarded as a store-house of books and their role was limited

in teaching and learning processes. The importance of a university library has now been

realized by the students, faculty members, researchers and higher ups of the university.

Now a university library is considered as the most important element and integral part of

4

the university system. The ultimate aim of the university library is to support the learning

activities of the university.

Wilson and Tauber (1964:25) describe that the main theme behind the establishment of a

university library is to quench the information thirst of their readers. It should support the

activities of the library like teaching, research, publication and interpretation.

Butler (1995:1) explains that central libraries of universities will play a prominent role in

the dissemination of information and will act as a hub for the other learning procedures of

the university. The students, teachers and other staff of the university will get the required

information on the screen of their personal computers without the restrictions of time and

four walls.

Haider (2007:173-176) states that the university library is a growing organism and need

to give due attention to its planning. It should be given equal importance as with the other

curricular disciplines. It should work with the other departments on parallel lines. In

Pakistan, the status of central libraries in the public sector universities do not get the same

status as libraries in India or Iran. It has not been given the due rank it deserves. It is

reported that a good number of public sector university libraries has no chief librarians.

These libraries are run by junior librarians. The availability of emerging library

technologies in these university libraries is also a question mark. The provision of budget

for central libraries is also not satisfactory. These issues have been raised by many

educationists and library experts in the educational reports, education policies, seminars,

conferences and symposia. Foreign experts have also been assigned the task to analyze

the situation of libraries and submit reports for the advancement of library culture in

Pakistan. However, it is a sad observation that no due importance has been given to these

reports and the efforts made in this direction have been proved fruitless.

1.2 University libraries in Pakistan

Pakistan came into being on 14th August, 1947 on the map of the world. Pakistan is the

seventh populous country of the world. The country is basically an Islamic State with

more than three- quarters of the population being Sunni Muslims. The rest of the

5

population include Shiite sect (20%) and other religions like Christians (1.56%), Hindus

(1.51%), Sikhs and others (0.26%). In Pakistan we have the world’s second highest peak

named K-2. The topography of Pakistan is variable. Climate is also a diverse

phenomenon. The inland areas can get up to 50 degree centigrade temperatures while the

hilly areas drop to freezing point. Rice, Tobacco, Wheat, Cotton and Cane are the major

crops of the country.

There are 132 university level institutions in the country. Each and every university or

Degree Awarding Institute (DAI) has a main university library. The size and services of a

university library depend on the nature, students’ strength and overall infrastructure of

the university.

The library was considered a building, room or a number of rooms containing books for

study, reading, consultation or reference. Heartsill Young (1983:130) in the American

Library Association (ALA) Glossary of Library and Information Science has defined a

library as:

“A collection of resources ordered to offer physical, bibliographical and scholarly access

to target group, with a staff that is trained to provide services and programs related to

the information needs of the target group.”

Ranganathan (1940:25) was right in saying that “a library is a place established for the

preservation, processing and circulation of collection of books. It is the duty of this public

institution to convert general readers or library goers into potential library users.”

S.Gopinath , A. Pathak (2001:31-32) writes that “the libraries are built to acquire,

preserve, process, access, retrieve and disseminate information to their patrons.” It is also

stated that no change has occurred in the objectives of the libraries.

Ifidon and Okoli (2002: 22-33) are of the view that additional functions of universities

are:

• Search, encouragement, and propagation of facts;

• Stipulation of logical headship;

6

• Human resource improvement;

• Encouragement of societal and financial renovation;

• Endorsement of intra- and transnational and global understanding.

University libraries have derived their objectives from the above functions which

include:

• Stipulation of resources for undergraduate training, term papers, and

projects, as well as for additional reading;

• Provision of resources for students, teachers and researchers;

• Provision of costly standard mechanism, especially in the professional

disciplines.

The main theme behind the establishment of an academic library is to satisfy the reader

community. The information needs of the academic community may be satisfied with the

provision of necessary information resources and documents for study, reference and

research.

Kanwal Ameen (2008) is of the view that university libraries are receiving better funding

for acquisition of print material. These funds may not be spent on what is available in the

market but what is the need. The use of online resources should be given due importance

to achieve efficiency, economy and speed.

In the present era of information explosion, the universities’ libraries in Pakistan need

latest library technologies to cope with the challenges by modernizing their services. The

emergence of internet and online facilities have enhanced the increasing demands of

library clientele.

Muhammad Sajid Mirza &.Khalid Mahmood (2009:1) state that there is a dire need for

the development of a library web page within the university home page. The web-based

library services should be introduced in all public sector university libraries. Pakistan

Library Association (PLA), HEC and LIS schools to take necessary measures for

arranging training, seminars, conferences for library professionals and users to enhance

7

their capabilities. Surveys should be conducted to show the barriers in the way of

implementation of emerging technologies in libraries.

The advent of digital technology in the libraries and information centers of Pakistan took

place two and half decades ago. As a matter of fact, most of the universities in the public

sector in Pakistan have recently introduced the adoption of emerging technologies in their

libraries or planning to introduce the same. The public sector university libraries of

Islamabad and Punjab have better digital technology infrastructure as compared with the

rest of the university libraries of the country because of comparatively better financial

affluence and proximity to the federal capital Islamabad as well as the HEC headquarters.

The major limiting factors for hesitation in the use of emerging technologies in university

libraries are lack of technology-based set up, deficiency of IT trained human resource,

lack of awareness of the digital resources, low user demand rate, financial constraints,

limited computer network system, lack of awareness about the digital protection methods

and lack of technological education for digital access. The projects of introducing

modern technologies in the public sector university libraries will be possible if and only if

the above mentioned barriers are overcome.

1.3 Digitization

Digitization is a process by which a character or text, chart, picture, sound, video is

converted into digital format. Digitization changes the reading material into digital form

that is easier to store and retrieve.

McQuail (2000:16-34) highlights the practice of digitization having enormous

consequences to the computing standards as it "permits information of all types in all

shapes to be carried with the same competencies and also intermingled"

Chepesuik ( 1997:47-49) discusses that digitized information has many advantages like

universal availability, minimum cost, easy use, and does not perish for a long time.

Digitization requires expensive infrastructure and this is considered to be the main

barrier. A report submitted by the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, which noted that

the cost of digitization of a single page is from $2 to $6 US Dollars.

8

What documents need to be digitized in the library? Different criteria are used for

selecting individual items for digitization (Gary Cleveland, 1998). These are:

Their capability for permanent use

Their scholarly or civilizing grading

Whether the digitized material have easy and quick accessibility than the

manuscripts.

Whether copyright issues will allow digitization of the materials.

Muhammad Ahsan (2009) discusses that digitization process in information centers or

libraries of Pakistan is at the stage of infancy. Pakistan has not achieved the required

progress in the field of digitization due to inadequate finances, lack of computer

knowledge and lack of skilled professionals in the area of digitization; these are the main

reasons due to which our country is lagging behind the developed countries. Although

some of our institutions are trying to digitize some of their library documents. These

organizations/ universities include HEC, National Library of Pakistan, Central Library of

Quaid-e-Azam University in Islamabad, Central Library of the University of Punjab and

some private organizations. In order to preserve the intellectual heritage in the form of

manuscripts and other rare materials related to arts, social sciences (especially culture and

history of the country), these are in the process of digitization. The total collection of

manuscripts in our country is 0.15 million placed in libraries and in some personal

custody. It is the necessary that we digitize their materials to preserve the cultural

heritage.

1.4 Digital library

The Digital Library Reference Model defines a digital library as: an organization, which

might be virtual, that comprehensively collects, manages and preserves for the long term

rich digital content, and offers to its user communities specialized functionality on that

content, of measurable quality and according to codified policies.

9

A digital library is comprised of collections, services and infrastructure to support

lifelong learning, research, scholarly communication and preservation (“Digital

Libraries”: 2006). The digital library is not a single entity; the digital library requires

technology to link the resources of many services that are transparent to the end users;

Universal access to digital libraries and information services is a goal; digital library

collections are not limited to document surrogates: they extend to digital artifacts that

cannot be represented or distributed in printed format (ARL, 1995). The digital library is

the collection of services and the collection of information objects that support users in

dealing with information objects available directly or indirectly via electronic /digital

means (Leiner, 1998).

Janet Gertz (2000:97-104) outlines the major advantages of a digital library:

No physical boundary

Round the clock availability

Multiple accesses.

Information retrieval.

Preservation and conservation.

Space.

The main problems in building a digital library are digital security, copyright and

licensing and metadata creation.

Ashfaq Hussain, et.al (2008:1) describe that digital library is a sine qua non and can play

a vital role to enhance research and development in the country. He further mentions that

the present situation of digital libraries in Pakistan is not satisfactory, although some

efforts have been made.

The respondents to the questionnaire distributed to them under this study laid emphasis

on training workshops, seminars, lectures for the promotion of digital libraries in

Pakistan. It was recommended that library schools and professional associations should

also take necessary steps for promoting the concept of digital librarianship in Pakistan.

10

1.5 Digital Library Program (DLP) in Pakistan.

1.5.1 Historical background

The digital library program in Pakistan traces back to a collaborative project of England.

The main purpose of the project was to make possible the access of developing and

backward countries to the latest scientific publications of Program for the Enhancement

of Research Information (PERI). PERI was founded by International Network for the

Availability of Scientific Publications (INASP) in 1999/2000. The second purpose of this

program was to develop knowledge, encourage creation and production of information, to

develop sustainable and equitable access to information, to poster collaboration and

networking, and to strengthen the local capacities to manage and implement information

and knowledge. By modifying PERI in Pakistan in 2004, the HEC got the distinction of

providing immense knowledge to its users particularly Degree Awarding Institutions

(DAIs), Research Centres (RC) and Universities in the form of scholarly publications

through Digital Library Program (DLP). As a result, the users may have access to this

store of learning not only from Pakistan, but also across the world. Public as well private

sector universities can equally enjoy the fruits of this program. The program has

permitted a large number of institutions to have access to more than 20,000 scholarly

journals/publications. These publications include articles on general topics and issues and

subject specific journals of national and international standards.

However, the question arises as to how will it be possible to have access to this store of

information? To solve this problem of the users, HEC has provided easy access on online

basis to this repository of knowledge. HEC allows users after the verification of their

Internet Protocol (IP) addresses. The verification of these IP addresses is carried out

automatically by the Local Area Network (LAN).

1.5.2 Components of DLP

There are four different categories of Digital Library Program (DLP): (A) Content

Acquisition and Development (CAD), (B) User Training, (C) Technical Support and the

(D) Promotion of E-Resources. These four categories are discussed briefly as under:

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A- Content Acquisition and Development (CAD)

This category is the most important one. More than 75 percent of the total DLP budget is

reserved for this category, which indicates its significance. The purpose of CAD is to

cope with the changing research requirements of higher institutions in Pakistan. This area

demands special attention. CAD has enabled Pakistani universities to have access to

electronic journals of international quality on all science subjects. In this race CAD is

competing with the world ranking universities of Europe, America and other developed

countries.

In order to analyze the merits and demerits of this program, HEC conducted a workshop

in March 2004 at Islamabad under the supervision of Project Coordinator of the Digital

Library Program. The workshop was attended by Information Technology (IT)

professionals and librarians across the country. The main purpose of the workshop was to

determine the demand for journals in all subjects and to assess the current status of off-

line research materials available in different libraries of the various institutions.

At the end of the workshop, it was known that due to insufficient budget allocated to the

libraries, it was necessary for the Commission to use its consortium approach to provide

access to online resources. For public sector universities, electronic resources were

sponsored and funded by HEC, while private universities shared only 50 percent of the

total cost of acquiring specialized resources. HEC has asked all institutions of higher

learning to provide feedback so that it is aware of the current information requirements.

The Higher Education Commission is constantly and needlessly seeking for more and

more opportunities for its institutions to have access to the store of knowledge of all the

leading universities of the world. To achieve the purpose, Pakistan has signed an

agreement under the title of ‘Pak-US Cooperation in Science and Technology” in 2004

with National Academy of Science (NAS) Washington DC to allow its institutions for

using their journals and other sources of knowledge via internet.

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The agreement was highly successful from the point of view that less than half of the

allocated budget had been utilized in the first year. Only a year later in 2005, the

remaining balance was also used to broaden access to some of the societies’ databases.

Besides, subscription to additional journal resources has been made available. Some of

the available e-databases through the digital library program included: American Society

of Physics Teachers (ASPT), American Society of Civil Engineering (ASCE), American

Physical Society (APS), American Chemical Society (ACS), Association of Computing

Machinery (ACM), Institute of Physics and many others.

Sometime a user requests for such an article/publication which is not available in the

digital library of HEC. PERI has entered into an agreement with the British Library to

provide easy access to these articles on the request of the users through HEC. To provide

the user with the required material, orders are placed through the British Library

Documents Delivery Service (BLDDS). The cost of articles is reimbursed by the HEC,

and the orders are put through a systematic procedure. Any individual including student,

faculty member and researcher can order two articles at a time in a month from any

institution.

B- User training

The Digital Library Program (DLP) is although very useful and it has produced

successful results so far in our country as well as across the globe, but at the same time, it

has to face many challenges and barriers to overcome. Of these barriers and challenges,

the most significant one is the spreading of awareness among the users and institutions

and encouraging the use of acquired resources. The sole reason of the problem is that,

these resources have been introduced into an environment that is very narrow and limited

in a sense. Persons who understand the digital libraries at length are very few in number.

A large number of people do not know about such latest trends introduced in the libraries.

To solve the problem, it is essential to find out user groups through which this change is

to be introduced. This group will have to undergo a specialized training module to obtain

the maximum impact and achieve the target. What is a user group?

13

B (i )- User Groups

The user group is the very first step and corner- stone of all future progress in training.

The first thing to be decided and taken into consideration is that what change/changes are

to be brought about and who can be the most effective person/persons who can be

helpful in bringing about such a change.

The objectives of this program is to make sure that the users have been provided with

information and training on the range of content available to them in order to enable them

to codify their knowledge that they have acquired through their research and lastly to

apply it in a new style to their own work.

B(ii) - Highly qualified active researchers; developing capacity

This group is the most important one from the view point of digital library resources.

They are the people who have an immediate need to conduct research on subjects/topics

according to their learning, skill and taste. They will use the digital library as a tool to

enhance the quality of their research work and to polish it more and more so that it may

compete with international standards. Digital library can be helpful to them in realizing

their dreams of producing quality research by providing them with the latest research and

information. In a nutshell, we can say that they are the most effective users of this

program. To build and polish their skill of conducting research has been a first priority of

this program.

B(iii)- Subject specific; Refining capacity

The members of this group include PhD supervisors, heads of departments and PhD

students. All these members are active researchers. They constitute another important

group of users who can play a leading role in the promotion of the use of resources and

can encourage students to take advantage of the available research literature.

B(iv)- General training; Building capacity

The development of information literacy courses to be included into the curricula of the

Master level courses is one of the current issues. This step will include training of

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students in all available resources that are related to their course of studies and setting

up of compulsory assignments on the available content.

B(v)- Training imparted

It has been reported and taken for granted from different sources like print and electronic

media that the available vast resources of all universities of Pakistan through Digital

Library Program would have value and uses only if they are to be used effectively by the

faculty members as well as the students. To achieve this objective, HEC has designed a

comprehensive training strategy by which a group of resource persons will arrange

workshops and seminars across Pakistan from time to time. In 2005-06, the first step was

taken in this direction. The purpose of which was to promote awareness and the usage of

Digital Library resources among the users. The training was conducted in different

regions of Pakistan, and different teams, consisting of two or three members actively

conducted onsite promotion and training activities for the users. In the first phase 43

public sector institutions and some private institutions in Pakistan availed this facility of

initial training. Initially around 7500 teachers and students were given training at the

different seminars conducted in 2005. The trainings have been varied in its scope and

content.

General Awareness Training (GAT) was conducted in universities where the graph of

awareness about the use of electronic resources was extremely low. These programs

provided the participants with general information on the subject. Presentations were

given on the available resources to the newly established universities. The participants

were given training as how to use search techniques and modules on copyright issues,

intellectual property rules and regulations and ethics of research.

Some institutions where the graph of general awareness was at a satisfactory level, a

more focused approach was adopted. HEC skilled personnel developed subject specific

course modules in areas relating to the Chemical Sciences, Physical Sciences, Life

Sciences, Earth Sciences, Engineering Sciences and Biological Sciences. The training

was arranged for PhD supervisors in their respective fields. The students under the

15

supervision of these supervisors were also given training. The training had an enormous

effect on all the trainees. The trainees gained comprehensive information on the range

and depth of resources available to them in their subject area through the seminars. They

also learnt the skills of utilizing these resources effectively.

C- Technical Support

Technical support means the unbreakable and effective communication between the

publisher and institutions registered for having access to digital library resources. Project

Coordinator is a person who manages this operation of digital library. Moreover, the

Project Coordinator is responsible for establishing long term guidelines for the successful

implementation of the program and developing plans for diversification and expansion.

The responsibility of the subordinates is further divided geographically, where each

member is held responsible to play a number of roles by attending to the need of his

region. In order to provide full access to the resources, a central database is maintained of

IP addresses and contact details of each member institution. In case a university changes

its IP address, they will have to notify the digital library team and through an automatic

system access to the resources is updated immediately and without any delay. Some of

the tasks which a team is supposed to complete are as under:

C (i) - Confirmation of available resources

Keeping in view the nature and function of this program, the country has been divided

into five major zones. Each zone has been assigned to a person known as Regional

Coordinator. Each institution which lies in the premises of the Regional Coordinator is

directed to keep in touch with their regional Coordinator via e-mail or voice mail. Every

institution is provided with a contact number and e-mail of their respective Coordinator

for updates and to answer their queries. Every issue and problem regarding access to the

resources is solved by the Coordinator in due time. Problems usually arise due to the

following reasons:

Internet Protocol(IP) range

disorder;

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Issues related to publishers

and publications of the content

Problems related to the

universities and degree awarding institutions

New institutions and organizations which are desirous to have an access to the resources

are directed to provide their IP addresses for registration with the publisher and for

making available the repositories. At the first stage, access is made available to some

organizations with the help of user name and password. No institution is allowed to have

an access in the absence of an IP address.

C(ii)- Lawful use of available resources

In order to facilitate the users, access to the resources is replaced from user name/

password to IP address. The problem with user names and passwords are that the

resources can be accessed from any location and from any address. The result of such

access is that the resources are used unlawfully such as hiking and the user is not easily

traced. Contrary to this problem by providing IP addresses to the member institutions, it

becomes quite easy for server to trace the unlawful use of resources with the help of IP

address which is allotted to an institution at the time of registration with HEC. No one

can have access to the resources from that institution without a legal IP address which

prevents the unlawful use of resources. In case the resources are unlawfully used, the

concerned institution is held responsible for unauthorized usage. Unlawful usage includes

hiking and excessive downloads with web crawlers or other software. In case of such

incidents, the Vice Chancellors/ Deans / Principals/Heads are notified of such illegal

usage.

C(iii - Monitoring of users

The Higher Education Commission has a well-defined system of monitoring the member

institutions regarding the unauthorized use of its electronic resources. In this respect, the

technical expert points out the technical problems and extends his co-operation for

solving of all such problems. These experts weed out the resources which are no longer

17

used by the universities. The extra funds are allocated to support those institutions where

the usage of such resources is required more than the other institutes. The technical team

uses the collected data to analyze the impact of training programs and to know the extent

to which these changes are useful.

The role of a librarian is manifold and of greater importance in creating awareness of the

digital library program. Librarians have played a leading role in shortening the distance

between HEC and the users of its member institutions. The librarians in many universities

have conducted many workshops on their own on this subject. The responsibility of the

librarian is to receive the users’ requests for journals/ research articles/ books and to

provide the users with their demands by forwarding their requests to the Digital Library

Project Coordinator. The Coordinator seeks help from the British Library to fulfill the

need of the users.

D- Promotion of electronic

resources

In order to improve the quality and standard of surveys carried out locally by the

Pakistani scholars, the Higher Education Commission has taken important steps. The

aim of these steps is to improve the quality of local research and to bring it on parallel

lines with international standard research and to make it accessible to the local needy

students, faculty members, researchers and scientists. These things are possible only if

our libraries are fully digitized and furnished with the latest technology.

To achieve this target, HEC has provided access to more than 20,000 e- journals and

other research papers to the readers with the help of DLP. According to another survey

conducted by Elsevier Publishing, more than 70 percent of the world’s peer-reviewed

scientific literature is launched by this Program. The number of institutions who are

regular participants of this program is more than 150. These institutions include public as

well as private sector universities, Degree Awarding Institutions and Research Centres.

The only drawback with this program is that it is not widely used due to the lack of

awareness on the part of the readers. In order to create awareness amongst the users,

18

various ways and techniques have been adopted by the HEC and other member

institutions. These techniques include poster and pamphlets which are distributed

regularly in the campuses. Besides, book marks containing Universal Resource Locator

(URL) of all the major publishers, databases are also distributed among the users.

A website has also been developed in 2005 to expedite the promotion of Digital Library

Program. The purpose of this website is to develop a trend of digital library use among

the traditional readers. The website offers a number of user friendly hyper links and feeds

the visitors with the details of the content information about the Digital Libraries. These

links are of enormous use for all categories of users including library users, general users,

librarians, researchers and students. The website contains a link called Frequently Asked

Questions (FAQs). This section assists the users who want to know about the basic

concepts, mechanism and applications of digital libraries. It also helps in providing

membership procedure, terms and conditions related to the membership of the program.

1.5.3 Allocation of financial aid

No project can ever run longer to achieve its objectives in the absence of financial aid as

economy is the backbone of every project and again it is economy that determines the

extent of success of a plan whatsoever it may be. As stated earlier in this discussion,

public sector universities have been provided the privilege of free access and absolutely

free of cost to all the available resources. Their charges are funded by HEC, while in case

of private sector universities, 50 percent of the total costs are levied from these

universities due to their own sufficient budgets. The funds are divided into different

categories according to the nature, function and need of the category. Content Acquisition

and Development category gets the lion share of the total budget, almost over 75 percent.

The second category, which is the promotion section, takes 7 percent of the total budget

while the third section which is technical support takes 5 percent of the budget and the

remaining amount is allocated for training and miscellaneous purposes.

In 2005-06, a huge amount of Pakistani rupees amounting to Rs 200,000,000(Rs 200 m)

was allocated for the DLP. Approximately Rs 65000 were reserved for training,

19

conferences, workshops and seminars. Every following year, the amount was doubled to

meet the increasing demands of this program.

1.5.4 Recapitulation and monitoring

The program was launched in 2003, but with the passage of time, the DLP got strength

and its roots got deeper and deeper with every passing year in respect of available

contents and usage. In 2005, the DLP underwent a revolutionary phase as by that time, a

large number of researchers, faculty members and librarians got acquainted with the

program through seminars, workshops and training.

The member institutions downloaded a number of articles from this project and these

downloads were put as a standard for measuring the performance of these institutions.

Every year the number of downloaded articles went on increasing. In 2004, the number of

these full-text articles downloads was around 100,000 while in 2005, the figure jumped to

one million which was a proof of the increasing interest of the users in DLP. Not only the

number of users was increasing, but also the number of available resources and

participant institutions were growing with every passing year, due to the effectiveness

and usefulness of this program. The institutions having the best performance were

awarded additional funds, while institutions with poor performance the supply of funds

were reduced.

1.5.5 Impact of DLP on research output in Pakistan

Digital Library Program (DLP) has affected the research output of all major educational

institutions including universities, DAIs and research centres in a positive manner.

During a short span of time, the figure of research output by these institutions increased

considerably. With every successive year, research output has been doubled which owes

to many factors, but the major one is DLP.

20

The future of National Digital Library Program of Pakistan is promising and has a great

potential. The number of users is increasing by leaps and bounds with every passing day,

which is a proof of its popularity, effectiveness and usefulness for all categories of

readers, scholars and faculty members. In the coming years, this program will have to

expand its resources and repository of learning, knowledge and research articles in order

to cope with the future challenges and needs of the users. The sustainability of the

program highly depends on researchers and professionals who are playing a vital role in

managing libraries and optimizing the use of its resources.

1.6 Need of networking of university libraries in Pakistan

A network is a combination of modern technologies. It consists of hardware, software

and media for connecting computer terminals. This setup will enable these computers to

interact, communicate, exchange and share resources in real time. Network can also be

defined as the interconnection of several different computer terminals by communication

channels. It is a logical extension of data communication system.

It usually consists of a number of terminals in which some are local and some are placed

in remote areas. The remote computers are attached with telephone line or any wireless

system.

In the present era of emerging technologies, networking of libraries is a must. With the

help of library networking, we can get the benefits of resource sharing, easy technical

processing, saving of time and money, improvement in the skill of manpower and

standardization of library services. The library networking, if developed, will achieve the

following:

• It will allow data transmission to far-flung libraries

• It will provide an opportunity to various departments of a library to communicate

with each other frequently

• It will allow the users to interact with their libraries without the restriction of time

and boundary walls.

• With this facility, we can share our views and resources with other international

professionals and information centers.

21

Library networking is meant to promote and facilitate sharing of the resources available

within a group of libraries in order to provide maximum information to users at lower

operational costs and also make optimum use of national resources (Kaul, H.K: 1998).

SD Vyas (1997:4) states that the major objective of networking of university libraries is

to get maximum output with less input. The writer further adds that networking is

necessary for all kinds of libraries i.e. academic, special, public and national. This is the

tool with the help of which readers can utilize the resources of many other libraries. It can

be considered as a modern resource sharing technique.

The rapid advancement of IT and network technology has made it possible for people to

produce, access, and disseminate information and knowledge through the computer

networks. Traditional publishers, information intermediaries, and users of books,

magazines, and other publications have started to re-invent and re-position themselves in

the broader and the more ubiquitous Digital Library (DL) arena.

1.7 Pakistan Education and Research Network (PERN)

Pakistan Education and Research Network (PERN) is one of the most important

objectives of information technology action plan that was initiated by Dr. Atta-Ur-

Rehman, the then Minister of Science and Information Technology in Pakistan in 2002.

This project was sponsored by the Government of Pakistan through the Pakistan

Telecommunications Co. Ltd (PTCL). The plan was designed, operated and maintained

formally by National Telecom Corporation (NTC) in its embryonic stage and now the

responsibility has been assigned to PTCL.

The main objective of this project was to establish a continuous link among all the

chartered universities of Pakistan including public and private sectors which are

registered with Higher Education Commission of Pakistan. By linking all these

universities, it has become possible to facilitate sharing of data banks, co-operation in the

fields of research and development activities and up-gradation of teaching faculties by

providing highly learned people to all these Degree Awarding Institutions. The HEC is

now looking for reshaping PERN as PERN2 and by doing so HEC will be able to

22

establish a faster, effective and dedicated National Research and Education Network

(NREN) as PERN2 for all DAIs and universities of Pakistan. This program is useful in

providing communication via advanced Information and Communication Technologies

(ICTs) to the students and scholars. The PERN2 is also trying to get access to other

NREN of the world, especially developed countries including Asia Pacific Advanced

Network (APAN), TransEurasia Information Network (GEANT2) and Internet 2 (USA).

PERN2 will attempt to meet all the requirements of the researchers by providing them

with the latest technologies along with proper security and management. It will be the

responsibility of PERN2 to connect all the public and private sector universities and

research centres in one link using IP based infrastructure through metro fiber ring

(Gigabit Ethernet) in the areas which have these facilities. Other locations which are out

of range will be connected to HEC and other universities with the help of leased dark

fiber and Time- Division Multiplexing (TDM) system.

PERN2 is a more advanced and effective shape of PERN that is designed to meet the

requirements of advanced studies and to cope with the challenges that our institutions and

scholars will have to face in future. After PERN2 launch, all the responsibilities,

functions and duties would be transferred to PERN2. It is working on the same pattern as

PERN.

1.8 Video Conferencing

Peter Norton (2006:258) writes that one of the most interesting usages of digital

technology is the exchange of written messages, voice and videos along with the

computer networks. These shared ideas include e-mail and teleconferencing. The

subtypes of teleconferencing include video-conferencing, audio- conferencing and data-

conferencing.

Video conferencing generates a communication channel over a distance by permitting

people at two or more far off places to exchange views with each other by seeing a video

picture of the person at the other place. Each conference room has two or more cameras,

microphones, loud speakers and LCD or monitors.

23

To meet the future challenges and fulfill the requirements of advanced studies and needs

of the scholars, HEC has launched a useful project that is called Video Conferencing.

Video Conferencing is a system of net meetings and online lecturing through IP

addresses. The main purpose of this program is to deliver online lectures by scholars and

professionals to benefit those who do not have easy access to HEC repository and other

advanced libraries. When the program was initiated, it was decided that the facility would

be provided to 18 universities in 2006 in the first phase on a trial basis. If the program is

successful it will be extended to all other universities and research centres. Video

Conferencing consists of supplying, installing, integrating, testing and maintenance of

fully functional video conferencing system. The system helps in distant learning as well.

The objective of this project is to minimize the distance between students and teachers

and provide more and more opportunities to the researchers to learn from the experiences

and skills of competent supervisors registered with HEC. By bridging the gap of

communication between learners and learned, universities having shortage of faculty

members will not feel the sense of depravity of good faculty. This program also helps to

raise the standard and quality of education and to prepare the younger generation of this

country to take the responsibility of spreading quality education in the future and bring

Pakistan parallel with developed countries in education.

When this program was started in September 2006, learned scholars, professionals and

experts from all over Pakistan were invited to deliver interactive lectures on

miscellaneous topics according to the needs and wishes of the students. These lectures

were recorded and preserved by HEC to be broadcasted in future on the demand of the

scholars. The purpose of these lectures was to develop basic concepts, critical thinking

and a scientific attitude in graduate, under -graduate and other high level learners. The

lectures were equally beneficial for the teachers. If need be, noble laureates, professors,

scientists, researchers and experts from world ranking universities will be invited and

requested to deliver lectures as per demand. In second phase, the program was extended

to 32 universities as there was a dire need of this project in these universities.

24

Video conferencing is also helpful in the selection of university faculty. The desiring

candidates need not come to HEC Islamabad to be interviewed for final selection. They

have to come to the concerned university and in the university they will be online

interviewed for final selection using video conferencing facility.

The facility has saved a lot of time and money. Prior to this facility, students who were to

be sent to foreign countries under overseas scholarship program used to be interviewed

by foreigners, who were invited by HEC and paid their TA/DA /Remuneration.

Currently, the HEC need not to invite these foreigners for interviewing the provisionally

selected candidates. HEC has only to take prior appointment for online interviews of all

such candidates.

1.9 Pakistan Research Repository (PRR)

The Pakistan Research Repository is a continuing project of HEC (Higher Education

Commission) to encourage the publication of research output of international standard

carried out in the universities/ Degree Awarding Institutions or Research Institutes in

Pakistan and promote open access to scientific literature. The main aim of this system is

to build an online archive of PhD theses produced in Pakistan and to make available these

resources to the research scholars and faculty members of universities in Pakistan. The

following are some of the salient features of this repository:

To obtain and upload the research work of local scholars

Systematic and well-planned system of digitization of indigenous resources

Exchange of resources with leading other repositories of the world

Permission of browsing, accessing and downloading of full-text theses to

scholars

Permanent preservation of scholarly literature

Facility of other leading online search engines

Facility of browsing by subject, year or by type of institution

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1.10 Automation of library procedures

Library automation may de defined as “the system which is designed to replace the

manual library system “. The application of computer based services and resources in the

operation of library activities are also termed as library automation. The conversion of

information into digital form is termed as digitization. This process makes it easier to

preserve access and share this information.

The impact of computers has affected all areas of librarianship. The application of

computers in library house keeping routines include Acquisitions’ control, Technical

processing of documents, Serials control, Circulation control and Stock verification. The

automation of library house keeping routines is more suited for automation due to its

repetitive nature. The application of computers help in gaining greater standardization,

efficiency, cooperation and advanced services.

Muhammad Riaz ( 1991: 65-66) discussed that the factors responsible to bringing about

change from conventional to automated library operations are: growth of documents,

users services, greater efficiency and cooperation and resource sharing. The objectives of

library automation have been summed up by Venkata Ramana P and Rao (2003: 31) as:

To expedite access to learning resources;

To standardize the present library collection;

To minimize the daily repetitive official work;

To give pace to the technical processing of library documents.

To offer improved range of services;

To develop networking and resource sharing environment among the libraries

and

26

To provide latest and current updates of library information to managers.

1.10.1 Why library automation?

Over the past two and a half decades, university libraries have observed dramatic changes

in their services and resources. The advent of emerging technologies is now diminishing

the central role of traditional libraries. With shrinking or reduced budget, price hike of

documents, shift in the medium of publication, information explosion and changing and

prompt user demands, traditional libraries are unable to satisfy the diverse needs of users.

Due to these reasons, it is a matter of urgent necessity to automate libraries in order to

cope with national and international challenges by providing them with modern services

and up to date information.

Kamath (1983:178) wrote 28 years ago that in the field of Science and Technology alone,

approximately three million documents are published each year which include articles,

conference papers, books, technical reports and theses. He added that the rate doubles

every eight to 10 years. In order to resolve the matter of space, technical processing of

these exploded information and access by users to these resources, the automation of the

university library services and resources is mandatory. However, the rate doubles every

2-3 years.

1.10.2 Barriers to library automation

The following could be the few possible barriers to library automation:

i. Fright of unfavorable effect on employment

ii. Hesitation that the implementation of emerging technologies could be very costly

iii. The library professionals require continuing training.

27

iv. Will of higher authorities about modern library technology is absent.

v. Retrospective conversion of data

Though library technologies have the capability of modernizing the library services, there

is a wide gap between what is told and what has been gained. It is calculated that that a

large per cent of library professionals in Pakistan are unaware of the proper use of

emerging library technologies. The barriers to the rapid progress of modern library trends

are many.

M. Bavakutty, et.al ( 2006: 249) states that the following are some of the barriers to the

implementation of library automation:

Insufficient funds

Inadequate ICT infrastructure

inadequate trained library professionals

Lack of initiatives on the part of the library professionals

Lack of support from higher authorities

Lack of awareness among library professionals about the potential of ICT

Lack of coordination among library professionals

Technology illiteracy of users

Lack of interest on the part of users

Lack of long-term approach towards ICT application

Poor marketing of technology - based library resources and services

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Daunting approach of library staff towards their users

1.11 Areas of library automation

Computers are widely used in selection of material, ordering, procurement, invoice

processing, accessioning, labeling, cataloguing, issue /return, recall, fine collection,

addition/deletion/modification of membership details, serials control. However, the

computerization of library documents can be broadly classified into:

1.11.1 Acquisition procedure

The major duties of acquisitions section are to select and purchase documents for the

library. The major functions of acquisition process are as under: ordering, claiming,

receiving, preserving and paying of all library bills. It is much suited for automation due

to their repetitive clerical nature. The module of acquisition procedure, the following

basic functions of the acquisition module have been identified as under (Muhammad

Riaz, 1991: 67):

Assortment of library documents

Scrutiny of doubling

Ordering procedure

Updating official record

Confirmation of materials with bills and invoices

Accessions procedure

Maintaining record of received and non- received books

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Accounting and management activities

The module should also manage databases like vendors, financial sources, currencies and

its corresponding local rates.

1.11.2 Technical processing of documents.

Due to the use of computers in libraries, the jobs involved in the technical processing of

documents have been minimized. A catalogue has always played a central role in the

technical processing of documents and considered as primary record of the library

holdings for the users. In the past, there were several physical forms of catalogue like

book form, card form and different cataloguing rules. The application of computers to

libraries has changed the scenario. The functions of the computerized cataloguing system

as ( Nair ,R Raman , 1992) puts it are:

Input of complete details of new documents that is bibliographical and indexing

elements;

Maintaining the database of master file of bibliographic records and index files.

Carry out functions like add, delete and modify;

Generating various lists like author, subject and other bibliographies, list of

additions and indexes

Providing for search of the databases through various access points;

Generating selected records in book form or card form;

Generating output in various catalogue formats like ISSD(M), AACR

Integrate with other subsystems like circulation, acquisition and reference

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systems.

1.11.3 Circulation procedures

Rowley (1988) noted that in order to achieve maximum availability of material, all

libraries must control circulation, by keeping record to specify:

What documents are available in the library collection that are accessible through

other means;

Which book is issued to a user, and from whom or where can it be obtained;

When will the issued book be next available in the library for other readers.

Muhammad Riaz (1991: 68) gives the job description of circulation control amenable to

automation as:

listing of readers

provision of readers’ card

issue/ return of library documents

issuance of reminders

maintaining statistics of necessary fines for overdue books

accounting and statistics

Barcode technology is a technology used in the libraries for circulation purposes.

G K.Manjunath and Pujar, SM (2002:119) write that major objectives of barcode

technology are to improve operational efficiency, to achieve accuracy, to make stock

verification and to reduce overall cost. The Radio Frequency Identification System is

31

used for various library operations like charging and discharging of documents, stock

verification, theft detection and other library matters in an effective manner. The major

drawback is cost required for the implementation of RFID system.

1.11.4 Serials control

Serials include a wide variety of periodical material including newspapers, magazines

and journals. As these items arrive periodically, they can be difficult to maintain. The

automated systems allows the holdings, or issues the library has received, to be updated

as issues arrive and checked against the dates on which items were expected to arrive to

ensure a complete collection. Serials module is an automated library system responsible

for the procurement, processing and other operations related to serial publications. The

basic functions of serials control system are: ordering new serials, renewing of already

subscribed serials, accessioning of received serials, keeping record of the amount spent

on serials acquisition and binding process. Automated serials control system consists of

the following sub systems (Muhammad Riaz 1991: 139):

Inventory – preparation of lists of serials.

Ordering and acquisition- selection, ordering and acquisition of serials newly

subscribed.

Accessions- receiving of serials, checking-in, placing claims if not received,

renewal of subscription, updating of records, placing orders for back volumes,

preparation of data files and record maintenance.

Indexing- preparation of index of serials and other records designed to meet the

32

needs of users.

Circulation- making available serials issues in separate volumes in bound form,

keeping records of circulation, checking and arrangement for binding.

1.11.5 Stock verification

This is an inventory control system used to collect information about lost documents.

The barcode technology is used for this purpose. Latest technologies are being used for

such purposes. Radio Frequency Identification System (RFID) can sort documents

automatically and the library staff can shelve documents very easily. There are portable

readers. These portable readers can report the lost, hidden or unordered documents easily.

RFID tags have greater storage capacity and can hold large amount of information about

a document.

1.12 Automated services to users

User services refer to what a library does to make possible the retrieval of information

and access to information for the clientele. M.Bavakutty ( 2006:19) describes that there

are various kinds of user services which can be provided to library readers through an

automated library system such as current awareness services, selective dissemination of

information, reference services, circulation of accessions lists, content page service,

online database services, online bibliographic services, online full text e-Journals, CD

ROM and DVD- based services including multimedia, internet services and computer

aided user- education program.

1.12.1 Current Awareness Services (CAS)

Current awareness services offers to provide up to date information feeds tailored to the

33

specific subject needs of the requester. A computerized CAS system reviews the

information source immediately upon its receipt. The automated system can provide

such services in an easy manner by patron matching techniques. This can be routed

through the email id of the user by matching the subject contents and users’ subject areas.

1.12.2 Selective Dissemination of Information (SDI)

SDI refers to tool and resource used to keep a user informed of new resources on

specified topics. Just like CAS, it also routes the required information to the user

depending upon the broad subject area. To keep SDI services functioning, it is necessary

to develop and store the user profile in the system and clearly indicate the subject area of

the user.

1.12.3 Reference services

The major function of the reference service is to help library users in obtaining access to

required information. Automated reference services are requested and provided over a

network or the internet, usually via e-mail, chat, web-based submission forms, and are

also answered by the librarian in the reference section of the library. Synonyms used for

this service are e-reference, online reference, digital reference, paperless reference or

virtual reference.

1.12.4 Content page service

This type of service is provided to the readers to make them aware of the contents of the

latest journals. It saves time and energy of the users by providing the table of contents of

the latest documents rather than searching the whole journal. The contents of an issue can

be scanned/digitized in PDF or other format and then routed to the concerned user. If the

reader needs one of the articles, then he/she can consult the source journal and get the

34

article.

1.12.5 Internet services

The network of networks is called internet. Internet contains information on a variety of

subjects, in different languages and in various forms. In Pakistan, the university libraries

are providing internet services to their readers for the last one decade free of cost. The

Higher Education Commission (HEC) has played a vital role in this connection. In order

to provide latest information resources to the students, faculty members and researchers,

the HEC has developed HEC Digital Library.

1.13 Impact of emerging technologies on university libraries

Today’s world is a world of emerging technologies, because it has affected all spheres of

our lives. Digital technology has revolutionized our office work, transactions in banks,

industries, education, simulation for training, business, health care, law, police, airline

system and homes. As library is also an integral part of our community, it is equally

affected by this technological revolution.

Choo Ming Ding (1996:79-87) states that the impact of technology on all levels of library

operations cannot be underestimated. In the age of 21st century, Library and Information

Science professionals must be aware of emerging technologies. The librarians need to

develop technology based skills to cope with the modern challenges. Pervez Ahmad &

M. Yaseen (2009:3) highlights the positive effects of automation which are as follows:

a raise in expertise level

probably higher job satisfaction

an increase in the multiplicity of everyday jobs

better elasticity

T.A.V. Murthy and V.S.Cholin (2004) express that libraries today are faced with

planning for automation within a rapidly changing and uncertain technological

35

environment. For academic libraries, the past was rocky, the present is uncomfortable,

and the future is uncertain. It is often thought to be folly to project the impact of

technology more than five years because technological change and organizational

dynamics are so volatile. In 1930's it was possible to predict the future for the next 50

years; but today we are reluctant to look at the next 15 years. When automation was first

introduced in libraries, the main purpose was to decrease staff costs and to enhance the

effectiveness of inner operations. As it became clear that automation would have minimal

effect on staff costs and increase the efficiency of internal operations. Automation was

yielding benefits and the resulting improved services, both to staff and patrons; as it can

be seen for example, it is possible to search an online catalogue in many ways that would

never be possible in a manual catalogue.

1.13.1 Impact of digital technology on library services

As discussed earlier that the university libraries usually offer circulation, user education,

reference, CAS, SDI, internet, OPAC, web services and bulletin board services to their

users, all these library services are nowadays modernized as per demand of the users and

changing scenario. It is a fact that the emergence of latest trends has changed the nature

of library services. We can access the resources of other online libraries with a single

click and can get our required information. It is the duty of the library staff to educate the

readers about the modern library culture and trends.

Shivram Verma (2005), in his book “Academic library system” discusses the emerging

technologies that have had a marvelous effect on university information resource centers

over the past two decades and hardly any one will differ that this effect has been positive.

Hans- Christoph Hobohm (1996:303-307) is of the view that library has not to alter for

the sake of changing. It is the responsibility of the librarian to know the taste of the

readers and provide such an environment that automatically attracts the readers, because

the ultimate aim of a university library is to serve and satisfy the information needs of

their reader community. It has to adapt to the user behavior which has changed as a result

36

of new technological possibilities. That is why, it is necessary to reassess some

fundamental concepts of librarianship like:

The position of library professionals in the international publication

market

The tools for information management

The media

Krishan Gopal (2003) describes that digital technology has enhanced the ability of

libraries to serve their communities, lower their costs, and full participation in the new

networked world. It also enables the readers to understand the process of electronic

transmission of information, the impact of the internet on information resource centers ,

the shifting of household tasks of librarians and library managers, the new standards of

evaluating information, and characteristics and functions of today’s library personnel.

Roswitha Poll (2005) opines that, in the present era of digital technology, university

libraries have offered many modern services by transforming the traditional services into

automated library services. These services have opened new ways of information

handling, accessing and processing. These services comprise of specialized e- delivery

services, online learning tools, e-reference, digitized library stock, electronic publishing

and introduction of some new and latest information portals. These services have helped

the researcher, faculty member and student in getting their required information. These

services require adequate funding and also systematic planning to utilize these fundings.

It is reported that these new services have a very positive impact on the demands of

users’ community.

1.13.2 Impact of digital technology on library resources

Digital technology has gained a reasonable pace in the last couple of decades and has

acquired a central place in almost all walks of life. It has a greater impact on education

especially on universities and libraries. In the past, computers were used for clerical jobs

and handling house keeping routines like technical processing of documents, acquisitions

control, circulation control, serials’ control, stock verification and management purposes.

37

The libraries have adopted the emerging technologies due to explosion of knowledge and

non-stop information, access to unlimited literature, improvement of existing collection,

development of network environment, time and space control.

1.14 Statement of the problem

Keeping in view the above discussions, it seems very necessary to assess the impact of

modern trends on university libraries in the country.

1.14.1 Objectives of the study

The aim of the research study is to investigate the application and impact of digital

technology on university libraries in Pakistan. However, the specific objectives identified

are:

To analyze the impact of digital technology on library and information

services and resources.

To examine the impact of digital technology on library administration.

To study the present physical, human, financial and learning resources.

To explore the various barriers to automation and digitization of public

sector university libraries in Pakistan.

1.14.2 Hypotheses

Application of digital technology enhances the library efficiency and

services in an effective manner.

Networking of university libraries is essential to improving library

cooperation and resource sharing.

Implementation of digital technology is not a barrier to the smooth

functioning of the university libraries in Pakistan.

1.14.3 Need and significance of the study

The major university libraries in Pakistan started automation of their library

resources and services almost two decades ago. In this thesis, an attempt is being

made to examine whether the libraries have applied computers in all the potential

areas of university libraries. It is to be also ascertained whether the libraries have

38

provision of adequate finance, learning resources, human resources, physical

resources (hardware/software) and other necessary infrastructure for the

automation and digitization of libraries. Such a study will help to suggest

measures for improvement of university libraries in Pakistan.

1.14.4 Definitions of terms

Digital library is an organization, which might be virtual, that comprehensively

collects, manages and preserves for the long term rich digital content, and offers to

its user communities specialized functionality on that content, of measurable

quality and according to codified policies. A digital library is a type of information

retrieval system.

Digitization is a process by which a character or text, chart, picture, sound, video

is converted into digital format. Digitization changes the reading material into

digital form that is easier to store and retrieve.

Digital Technology is the study and development of devices that store and

manipulate numbers. Digital devices can translate words and pictures into numbers

for a computer to process and then translate the numbers back into pictures or

words.

Electronic library is a library requires electronic devices for their establishment,

processing, retrieval and communication of information.

Library resources include physical, financial, learning, human and Technology-

based resources.

Library services are the basic services provided to the users for the fulfillment of

their information needs.

Public Sector University Libraries are those attached to the universities working

under the umbrella of Government.

University library is a library or library system established, administered, and

funded by a university to meet the information, research, and curriculum needs of

its students, faculty, and staff.

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CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Literature review: an introduction

Bruce (1994:217-229) stated that literature reviews are included in each and every

research thesis as they provide a background and justification for the research being

conducted. According to Taylor (2005) a literature review should be organized and

directly related to the topic on which the research is being conducted. Secondly, it should

describe a brief summary of what is known as well as unknown to the readers so far.

Thirdly, it should point out the areas of controversy and certain queries that require more

investigation.

Leedy (1993:87-88) identifies the following as the reasons for reviewing literature:

“The review can suggest ways of solving problems the researcher may

meet; the review can reveal sources of data that are not known by the

researcher; and the review may help the researcher to know new ideas

and new approaches.”

This chapter includes the concept of digital technology and libraries, library automation,

digital library technology in developed world and developing world and digital library

technologies in university libraries of Pakistan. This chapter also consists of the available

literature on the current status of digital library technology, automation and digitization

infrastructure and barriers to automation and digitization in Pakistan.

2.2 Digital technology and library automation: an introduction

Digit stands for any of the numbers from 0 to 9 while digital means “having digits”.

Technology refers to, behavior of manufacturing or doing things. Technology is derived

from the Greek word ‘tekhne’, which means an art or craft, and logia, refers to an area of

study; thus technology means an area of study, or science, of crafting. Technology may

be regarded as the application of science to useful ends. Digital Technology is the branch

of science which deals with the study of devices that work on digital numbers. Electronic

devices are used to translate textual or photographic data into binary form for processing

40

and then convert this binary form of data into photographs or text. Digital technology can

also be defined as the electronic communication technology used to operate on binary

numbers of 1’s (on) and 0’s (off). This technology enables the digital devices to make

possible faster and simpler communication of various kinds of information.

Digit is a Latin word which means “finger” or “toe”. In ancient times, people used to

count things with the help of their finger tips. The digital technology has become a

gateway to information and it forms the major support to higher education. The digital

collections have become the integral part of teaching and learning processes. The first

attempt in developing digital technology was made by the American Engineers in the

mid-20th century. The mathematical concept of binary computing system of 17th century

German mathematicians provided them a base for their experiments. Information to be

stored is first digitized with the help of digital technology and in the second step it is

processed in the binary form and is converted into 0 and 1. These are called bits.

The concept of Digital Technology was introduced in 1950’s by the American scientists.

It was based on the mathematical concept given by Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz. That

system provided a base for American Standard Code for Information Interchange

(ASCII). The basic unit of information is bit. Digital technology makes it possible to

compress huge amounts of data in small storage space that can be saved, processed,

transmitted easily. Digital technology has changed the style of communication, learning

and working environment to a great extent.

Telecommunication is a form of modern technology. The invention of optical fiber has

changed and expedited the speed of communication. The analog signals were replaced

with digital signals. Cellular phones and cable system are the output of

telecommunication technologies. Wireless technologies have innovated the mode of

faster communication among different information centers. Digital publishing is also a

product of modern technologies. It has changed the way and style of book and journal

publications. The L.C National Digital Library Projects initiated to conserve, develop and

increase access to rare resources.

41

In the telecommunication process, all messages are transmitted with the help of digital

technology. In 1980s, fiber optics paved the way for digital communication network and

analog signals for many communication forms like cellular phone etc was replaced by

digital technology. Pulse Code Modulation is used to convert analog data into digital

signals. Direct Broadcast Satellite (DBS) is used to transmit compressed digital signals

for viewers to watch hundreds of programs of their choice. Digital printers have brought

a revolution in the world of publication. With the help of this technology, the Library of

Congress has preserved and made access easy to the rare items in 1973. The Electronic

Numerical Integrator and Calculator was the first electronic digital computer, but in

2000s digital computers appeared in many sizes and forms like laptop, notebook, IPODs,

digital cameras and super computers. All these machines performed different functions

like guiding air traffic, analysis of data and complex mathematical calculations and other

functions. The purpose of all technology is to make human life easier and comfortable

and also to reduce labour. Modern technology has made life richer and fascinating.

In the context of a library and its services, digital technology means the use or application

of various technologies such as computer, scanner, digital cameras, telecommunication,

micrographics and other electronic tools for the storage, recovery, copying and

propagation of information(Smitha,S.J:2007). The digital technology has become a

gateway to information and it forms the major support to higher education.

Library automation may be defined as the application of computers in the operation of

various library activities and other modern sources of information technology. It is the

application of automated machines to perform routine manual in-house library activities

such as collection management, charging and discharging of library materials, technical

processing of books and journals.

Khalid Mahmood (1995:24-25) explains that library automation started in 1950s in

America and the developed countries of the world. In Pakistan, it was introduced in

1980s. Since 1987, some libraries have been automated and some of the others are in the

process of automation.

42

Keralapura (2009: 184-185) maintains that information technology has changed the

functions of libraries on the one hand, and information seeking behavior of the readers on

the other hand. If a library is to satisfy the needs and demands of the readers, then it must

have modern information technology resources.

Chu (2009:170-176) conducted a survey. The survey report of 60 well known universities

show that where electronic services are becoming more and more popular, a large number

of libraries are applying or intend to apply for web technologies.

A university library is supposed to play a very important role in maintaining its position

as the chief information resource and service provider. A librarian at the university level

may face two-fold challenges. The first challenge is to automate his library operations as

well as to develop the capacity to deal with large quantities of information in a variety of

modern electronic format. The second challenge for a librarian in a university is to

strengthen the growth of his traditional collection and services and for automation in

order to keep pace with increased resources.

Dissanayake (1995) is of the view that automating a library is only the first and initial

step, while keeping up with new trends in the field of communication and information

technology is equally important.

T.L Chrishantha Dilroshan ( 1998: 82-98) describes that library services, resources and

the investment made by the authorities will seriously be underestimated if libraries fail to

adopt these latest technologies. Abbot Wendy and Mark Sutherland (2008: 5-7) state that

in the past few decades, libraries have undergone tremendous changes. New opportunities

for learning are being provided to the new learners via modern sources of communication

and other advanced technologies.

M.Bavakutty (2006: 6-9) explains that information explosion, shrinking budget and price

hike of documents, shift in the medium of publication and lack of adequate staff are the

major reasons that necessitate dependence on latest technologies in university libraries.

S.R.Das (2008:221-223) writes that the major technological changes that had a thorough

impact are the growth and development of bibliographical utilities and integrated

43

automated cataloguing system with the help of MARC format. The working environment

of the technical section of the library is changing gradually and will assume a new shape

in the near future in almost all academic libraries.

Theja Kuruppu Arachchi & De Silva ( 2007), in “Library automation: strategies for

library human resource management” write about library automation and human resource

management. They discuss that automation is a technological change that replaces people

with machines. Automation of library functions has revolutionized library activities. It

enables libraries to provide an effective service while saving the employee time by

transferring low-level, repetitive operations to a machine. Library automation systems

have been developed for library in-house operations including acquisition (identifying,

ordering , receiving and paying for library resources), cataloguing (arranging materials

together by subjects and providing access to them), circulation (making library resources

available to users by lending), serials control, theses and dissertations processing and

reference services such as selective dissemination of information and interlibrary loans.

While changing from traditional library services to automated library services, new

equipment and processes are introduced changing the work process or work activities in

the library. It has changed the nature and the scope of library work. Introduction of

computer library systems cause technological organizational and sociological changes.

The most important of these is sociological changes.

Over the past three decades, university libraries have seen a revolutionary impact of

emerging technologies on key library functions. The introduction of these library

technologies has diminished the central role of traditional libraries. There are several

reasons for the implementation of latest technologies in information centres and libraries.

Mohammad Haneefa K (2006:246) highlights the barriers to the application of emerging

technologies in libraries, the important among them are:

Explosive growth of information

Wastage of time in handling routine and repetitive library operations.

Advantage like speed, accuracy and reliability in the process of information

handling

44

Widespread availability of digital information.

Multi and simultaneous use of digital information.

Facility to access resources and services of a library without visiting the library.

Saving of library or information centre.

Facilities to accommodate increased work load of library professionals

Provision of an effective control over the entire library resources, services and

operations.

Improvement of the existing resources and services as well as the introduction of

new resources and services.

Facility to share the resources and services among various libraries and

information centres through library networking and library consortia.

Avoidance of duplication of resources and services.

2.3 Emerging library technologies in developed and developing countries

Library automation was started in developed world in 1950. The libraries of developed

world initiated the adoptation of emerging technologies well in time. Automation in the

USA libraries started with automated circulatory system in the same year. The

developing portion of the world was in quite different position. They still lacked these

modern library trends. The developing countries always looked forward to developed

world for technology transfer and funding opportunities to run these projects in their

countries. They started library automation in late 1980's, except for some countries in

South Asia which initiated automation in the 1970's. The rest of the developing world

was deprived of availing emerging library technologies due to late arrival of technology,

lack of expertise, professional skills and adequate funding.

Mauritius V.D Graff (2007) presented an inventory study titled “Driver inventory study”.

The main aim of the driver inventory investigation is to highlight the current state of

digital repository in 27 European countries. The study covers the areas; coverage;

contents; access forms of full-text records; work processes; software packages and

accessibility by search engine or portals. Shivram Verma (2005) in “Academic library

system" discusses the three latest technologies which have had greater positive impacts

45

on universities libraries over the past generations. The modern technology has replaced

card based catalogue with Online Public Access Catalogue, while print- based periodicals

indexes have been replaced with online periodical indexes.

Karen Coyle (2004) "Rights management and digital library requirements", intended to

provoke discussion on the requirements of the digitization like right expression; the

encoding of license terms and files protection. The article concluded that there are two

distinct and major areas where libraries can exert their impact on the right management

modern sources of communication. One is the stage where information resource centre

approached the resources of other organizations, e.g. clients of digital publishing.

Secondly, when digital libraries disseminating their digital works.

Alan Hopkinton (2010) in this connection says, library automation was introduced in the

developed nation of the world about three decades ago. The situation in developing

countries was not up to the level due to some constant constraints. The developing world

is facing a series of problems like power supply, finance, internet availability and their

speed. The introduction of open source software has solved the financial problem to some

extent in developing world like Nigeria and Thailand. It is expected that internet

bandwidth speed will improve in developing countries and library automation will get

pace. The issues of power supply and economic deficiency will still continue.

Krishen Gopal (200) describes that digital technology has enhanced the ability of libraries

to serve their communities, lower their costs, and full participation in the new networked

world. It also enables the reader to understand the process of sending information via

electronic media, the role of internet in information centers, the new role of all concerned

to information and resource centers, the new techniques of analyzing information and

capacities as well as the role of present library concerns.

Ramesh Chandra & A.P Shrivastara (2003) "Technological changes in libraries", study

recent developments in technological capabilities such as high resolution capture devices,

dramatic increase of digital storage media, explosive growth of internet and www,

46

sophisticated search engines, fast processing power and reducing cost of computer, high

bandwidth network and increasing number of electronic publications make it possible for

the establishment of digital libraries. With the appearance of latest technologies in the

form of digital resources, the role of libraries in helping to explore new vistas of learning

has enormously increased. We need such effective technology that could preserve and

transmit large amount of data in the form of images, knowledge, audio-video materials

and others in a speedy way and also to perform searches that are impractical manually. At

present the modern technology has such invention that can perform the task very quickly

and easily and at the same time without any error. The invention has revolutionized the

role of all information and resource centers. These centers are now not only preserving

the library documents and other rare data, but also play a leading role in facilitating the

users to have an easy and quick access to the library stock. The practice also has positive

impact on the processes of teaching and learning.

Aravind Tiwari (2002), “Evaluation of electronic libraries", writes that automation which

took place in 1990s is a very controversial issue in respect of various resources,

capabilities and dexterity. In recent times, the role and functions of libraries have

changed to a great extent. At present people who do not know how to use a computer and

internet will have no access to online library stock of knowledge.

K. Sambasvan (2000), Investigating library resources: problems and prospects in the

internet age", studies the technology development that has made profound and

undoubtedly permanent change in libraries. The traditional services that the users were

getting from the library so long and so forth are undertaking a vast and fast change during

these days. The clients have started making new types of demands before the professional

staff. These transitions are gradually spreading to almost all types of libraries and

information centers. All information centers are experiencing technological changes

mainly due to three phenomena. They are information explosion, spiraling of library

costs, and technology revolution.

47

Gary Cleveland (1998) explains the digital library from various angles in detail. The

article discusses various issues and challenges to digital libraries. These are technical

architectures; building digital collections; digitization; metadata; identifiers and

precipitance; copyright/right management and preservation.

K.R Mulla (2006) states that in the last two decades digital technology has made room for

itself in every field and sphere of life. Libraries are no exception in this regard. In modern

era, all the libraries store information not only in the form of books, but also in the form

of audio, video and other multimedia sources. The digital libraries of today are faster and

effective in transmitting information to the users. These libraries are network- based

distribute system. The server is responsible for maintaining local collection of digital

documents. These libraries have made knowledge easily accessible to every one.

Grace Nok (2006:6-8) commenting on the automation of libraries says that the success of

automation of a university library largely depends upon the efficiency, skill, abilities and

training of its staff. To what extent the staff is able to facilitate and implement the

process. The staff of library should be well trained if a library is to be successful in

automation services. For effective automation services, a library has to adopt new

approaches of latest trends. The major factor on which the success of library automation

depends is the availability of skilled staff. The success of library automation also depends

on the periodic and appropriate technology-based training of library professionals. It was

further added that if a library has the capability to manage and bring into practical usage

the latest inventions in the field of information technology, it will bring its success.

Veranna S.Cholin ( 2005: 189-197) states that approximately 45 libraries of different

campuses in India are passing through different stages of library automation

development. INFLIBNET, an inter University center, has taken the responsibility to

provide all the universities’ libraries with latest information technology and to upgrade

the existing ones. The said center will provide assistance of all sorts to digitize their

libraries on modern basis. With the help of these latest resources these universities will be

able to approach all the available library documents of the campus information centers.

48

Anusha Wijayaratne (2005:21-22) explains the barriers to the implementation of

automated technologies in the libraries. He says that we had all sorts of difficulties,

problems and limitations such as network problems, power fluctuations, system failures,

lack of funds, hardware/software problems, fear of retrospective conversion, lack of

manpower and fear of staff during the initial stages of implementation. The situation

gradually became calm once the staff and users became familiar with the system,

strengthened the infrastructure, identified and treated the shortcomings in the software/

hardware solutions etc. This did not mean that every thing is fine and perfect at the

library, but the situation is now under control.

Smith S.J and Chethana M. (2007:1) explain the influence of digital technology on

information users of higher education and research centers in Mysore District of India.

The study shows that the digital technology has become a gateway to information and it

forms the major support to higher education. The digital collections have become the

integral part of teaching and learning processes. The present study will try to address the

problem of users’ literacy towards digital technology, digital tools, information resources

and services in higher education institutions and research centers. It also discussed about

the digital infrastructure available in different institutions and reasons for negative

responses on the direct influence of digital sources.

James W.Marcum (2003:2) writes that keeping in view the increasing usage of emerging

library technologies, it is supposed that in a year or so, all the libraries will be dependent

on information technology for their proper operation and effective functions. The

libraries will be using all sorts of technologies like audio, video and other multimedia

resources.

Charlene L. Al-Qalaf (2006:168-179) highlights the following points as most important

for successful implementation of library technologies:

The recruitment of competent and expert human resource;

49

Provision of technology-based training to library professionals and para-

professionals;

Hiring of resource persons/expertise for training from local experts and abroad

Speedy technical support;

Availability of better working environment for technical staff;

Regular up-gradation of hardware and software;

Implementation of attractive salary packages being the basic tools that can be

used to improve the current slack and slow position of library automation.

According to a survey report which was published by D. Rosenberg (1997) on several

African libraries which underlines that with the provision of Unesco Micro CDS/ISIS or

commercial library software, the emergence of internet and other latest sources of

information, the libraries have come across a best chance to enhance value added services

to their parent institutions. These modern libraries are now providing an easy access to

the locally conducted researches, indexing and abstracting services to fulfill the

information needs of their learning communities.

Neelakandan.B (2010: 149-176) delineates the following as the major problems faced in

implementation of automated library management system in the School of Chemistry

Library.

I. Lack of Infrastructure facility

II. Lack of environment support

III. Lack of financial resources.

M.Shariful Islam of Bangladesh (2007) explains that emerging technologies are

influencing the basic functions of information resource centers in different aspects. The

different aspects include a growing demand of library documents, information explosion,

modern libraries trends, and the exploration of latest and affordable computers. These

trends in turn have greatly increased the number of library users. The urban libraries are

surpassing the rural libraries in this race of technology. Keeping in view the modern age

50

and development, the government must struggle seriously to equip all the libraries with

latest technology according to the demands of the library persons and subscribers.

Chinwe V.Anunobi ( 2008) while commenting says that with the appearance of modern,

fast, cheap and effective technology, the role, function and responsibilities of every

library has undergone a revolution. The manual system has been replaced by current

technology. The technology is now making ways in the developing countries as well. All

the university libraries need to adopt the same if they want to bring a change and increase

the number of users. The step should be taken after giving due consideration to

expandability, tractability and compatibility.

Chinwe V.Anunobi (2010) approves that information centers at universities should take

major steps in modernizing their serials’ unit. The university libraries should seek

financial assistance from donor agencies in order to manage to purchase necessary

hardware and software for the serials’ functions.

Aina (2004) believes that the services which the libraries used to provide in the past to

the users have absolutely changed as a result of modern invention and discoveries in the

field of communication technology. The libraries are now taking full advantage of these

inventions and bringing them into practical usage for the services of their subscribers.

ICT has played a leading role in this connection. ICT is now used in the storage,

analyzing and communication of information. This trend has facilitated the users and

library personnel to a great extent. Not only this, it has also made the function of a library

faster and more effective as compared with the past. At present each and every member

of library staff must have sufficient knowledge about the practical usage of this

technology, that is if a library is to be successful in providing the best services to its

users. The technology that is being used in a modern library must form a part of library

science curriculum.

A.M.Adegbore (2010) recommends that designing secure and reasonable library

automation project, adequate funding, arranging unconventional power supply, periodic

51

working training for staff, sharing of ideas between universities and effective user

education program are the key to extend library automation culture in Africa.

O.O.Onilude and O.R.Apampa (2010) discuss that major barriers to the implementation

of latest library technologies include irregular electricity failure , expensive local Internet

Service Providers (ISPs), poor regulatory, licensing, and taxation regime, inadequate

grants sustainability, poor organizational structure, and user frustration with low

bandwidth.

Amer I.Kindilchie and Iman F.Sammarai (2008: 281-293) describe that information

resource centre or Qatar University Library provides all users with free access to e-

resources. Although the university library has subscribed to 30 databases of electronic

resources, but it is reported that these e-resources did not meet the information needs of

user community. It is suggested that there is a dire need of more online resources for the

researchers, faculty members, students and other users. Johnson (1991: 22-30) analyzes

that main cause for collapse of library automation plan in developing countries is that the

human resources or library professionals plan without adequate awareness about the

procurement of hardware, software, and power supply equipment

Kumar Parveen, Mamta Mestri and S Pararmeshwar (2006:150-158) describe that

growing population, poverty, illiteracy, less importance to modern facilities, energy crisis

are the root causes of slow progress of emerging library technologies in the developing

world.

Rohit Kelapure (2003) writes that there are two types of digital library services. These

services include infrastructure services and information satisfaction services. Searching,

indexing, linking, browsing, collecting and rating are the examples of infrastructure

services whereas filtering, question answering, feed back search and multi-classification

search are termed as information satisfaction services.

Partha Bhattacharya (2003) is of the view that virtual library tours, library websites,

library portals, web-based user education, Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ), library

calendar, web forms, bulletin boards and discussion forums are the major services of

52

digital libraries. The writer highlights that copyright and intellectual right issues, access

control, bandwidth constraints, interoperability and preservation problems are the

challenges for digital information services.

Wijnhoven, Fons and Jeroen Kraaijenbrink,(2008) states that electronic publishing, e-

communities and technical report writing are the basic digital information services. The

paper also explains the design problems and requirements of digital information services.

2.4 Emerging library technologies in Pakistan The Government of Pakistan invited Mr.L.C.Key in early 1950s to build up a plan for

Liaquat Library Karachi. At that time this library was established as the National Library

of Pakistan. This was the first effort made by the Government for the promotion and

development of library culture in Pakistan (Mushahid Hussain: 1994)..(a) The Pakistan

Library Association also played a prominent role in this direction and collaborated with

the Netherlands Library Development Project (NLDP), (b) the Asia Foundation and

USAID collaboration with PASTIC (Pakistan Scientific and Technological Information

Centre) and (c) UNESCO CDS/ISIS are the first three and major library automation

projects launched in Pakistan. These projects ended with the stoppage of foreign funding.

Farzana Shafique and Khalid Mehmood (2008: 6-13) suggested that: before software

selection for their libraries, the librarians should visit different automated libraries to get

technical knowledge about their installation, implementation, operation and maintenance.

The Departments of Library and Information Science in the country, the Library

Associations and automation groups should arrange training on various library softwares.

The librarians may be informed about open source software and their technical issues.

Conferences and Workshops be arranged to discuss the merits and demerits of different

library softwares in use in various libraries of the country. Special attention be given to

the comments and views of the working librarians.

Shehnaz Zubere ( 2007) discusses that for successful management of electronic flood of

information, librarians need to collect, process, save, protect and provide access to users.

In this connection, the librarians need to do more hard work for budget allocation to build

53

up digital libraries. The main hindrances in the way of digitization are continuous varying

technology, technical and legal limitations in copying and long term preservation for

future use. These barriers are difficult to be resolved by a single entity. To cope with

these challenges, joint efforts are required by information professionals, librarians,

publishers and management to find ways and means to solve these issues. It is the

responsibility of the eight Departments of Library and Information Science in the country

to carry out digital library research and education to equip the new generation with

modern library tools and tactics.

Syed Jalal-ud-din Haider ( 2007:173-176), “Library scenario & management problems in

Pakistani libraries” throws light on the barriers to the effective implementation of latest

technologies in the libraries of Pakistan, there is no organized planning for library

automation, selection of appropriate hardware and software, financial constraints,

absence of standards, ambiguity and most important lack of consent of library

professionals and lack of competent manpower. In order to resolve the situation, the

author stresses that special attention need to be given to the designing of information

policy; motivating professionals and higher authorities for the usage of modern

technologies in library operations; training and advancement of staff; arrangement of

information literacy programs for readers; and emphasis on comprehensive planning by

the library to computerize the library activities.

Rahman Shafiq & Pervaz Ahmad (2007) spell out the various challenges and

opportunities which include those of finance; collection development; information and

communication technologies (ICTs); library education; human resources; assessment and

evaluation; role of library associations; library cooperation; planning; promotion of

library services research and development. It is concluded that there is a dire need of

genuine hard work, absolute devotion and firm determination from the profession to

serve the cause of librarianship and promote library associations.

Muhammad Ajmal Khan and Khalid Mehmood (2010) write that the Pakistan Library

Automation Group (PakLAG) was formed in the year 2000 as a non- profitable Trust.

54

The main aim of this Trust is to motivate the young library professionals regarding the

latest and modern library tends. The group started its activities in Lahore. These activities

were soon extended to all over the country. A good number of young and senior

professionals joined the group. They are working hard for the promotion and use of ICTs

in libraries. During the decade (2000-2010), Pakistan Library Automation Group ( Pak

LAG) organized its units in other provinces. The Group charges no fees from their

members. The Group offers advice to information centers, libraries and documentation

centers on their automated projects. They arrange training programs to update the

librarians regarding the modern library technologies. These trainings provide

opportunities to librarians to automate their libraries and documentation centers. The

Trust promotes research in librarianship. The automation group has also developed a link

with local as well as international agencies. Recommendations are forwarded by the

Group to government and legislative bodies regarding the modernization of libraries.

Amjad Ali (2005), in his book “Digital libraries in the making” discusses multiple types

of information media references. This book also highlights the contribution of various

agencies at national and international levels in digitization and automation of libraries. It

also provides information about information networks and digital information.

Munawar Sultana Raziuddin (2004) explains that a digital library must contain e-

resources related to all disciplines of human activities. The article discusses the historical

background of digital library. It also explains the resources; digital objects; maintenance

of digital library and problems in digital library development.

Shaheen (2008: 142-147) presented a survey report of 420 students of public sector

universities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. In this survey usage of internet was discussed

and frequent use of Face book, You Tube, Classmates, MSN, My Space provide an

opportunity to the students and general users to interact with each other freely. This

practice has promoted the political awareness and freedom of speech among the masses.

Muhammad Arif & Khalid Mehmood (2010:10) discuss that computer illiteracy; poor

technological infrastructure and internet connectivity are the main barriers to the

55

implementation of web 2.0 technologies in information centers and libraries. They

suggest that regular trainings on web 2.0 technologies will enhance the professional

capabilities of the librarians.

Farasat Shafi-Ullah and Stephen A. Roberts (2009) write that developing countries are far

behind in emerging library technologies. The developing countries like Pakistan have

realized the importance of modern library trends. Program for the Enhancement of

Research Information (PERI) and International Network for the Availability of Scientific

Publications (INASP) type programs have motivated the higher ups in the government for

automation of libraries. They also point out that poor funding, lack of bureaucracy

interest in libraries and slow speed of library automation projects are the major

hindrances in the way of adoptation of latest technologies.

Malik Khalid Mahmmod and Muhammad Ajmal Khan ( 2007: 418-427) conducted a

study on the ICT trainings for library professionals in Pakistan. The authors addressed

some key questions regarding the issue: What is the computer literacy level of library

professionals in Pakistan? What do the library professionals expect from the technology-

based library trainings? What do they require to gain from these trainings?

Muhammad Ramzan and Singh Diljit (2009 :573-587) focus on more computer terminals

in the libraries, availability of e-mail services, internet provision, integrated library

management software, computerized services to the reader communities, appropriate

budget allocation for electronic resources. The study explores poor IT infrastructure and

low bandwidth internet speed. It is suggested by them that standard integrated library

software is necessary. However, the role of HEC Digital Library was appreciated by

them.

Bushra Almas Jaswal (2005: 87-104) writes that the emergence of digital technology has

broken the time and four walls’ restrictions for the users of the academic libraries. The

librarians are expected to cope with modern challenges with their skill and expertise. In

the present era of information explosion, it is impossible for a single library to manage

56

the flood of information. Resource sharing is the tool with which we can control this

problem.

Kanwal Ameen (2008) says that the pace of adaptation of modern library trends is very

slow. Library professionals need to acquire such a potential that they may be able to

develop Web OPACS. The emergences of PAKLAG, Library Cooperation (LIBCOOP)

and other professional groups in Pakistan have provided the platform to the professionals

to share their skills and knowledge with local professionals and also with international

library expertise.

Pakistan Libraries Project (PLP) was started by Relief International in collaboration with

the Ministry of Education and local educational organizations in 2008. Under this

program, four libraries or information resource centers in schools had been established.

The main aim of this program is to promote the use of modern technologies in school

libraries. The project also included a training program for teachers and students to

enhance their IT skills.

Noor Shed Khan (2005: 532-540) is of the view that we are still providing traditional

library services to the user community. The use of ICT is still at the stage of infancy in

our libraries. The users are keenly interested in modern library services. The major

factors are the provision of proper funding for equipment, training and creating

awareness among the users.

Muneera Nasreen Ansari and Bushra Adeeb Zuberi (2010) say that electronic resources

are the best means to get up- to- date information. The problem in network and lack of

training are the main barriers to the proper utilization of these resources. These problems

can be solved by providing IT expert staff with continuing training facilities.

Rubina Bhatti (2010) highlights that academic resources offered online in various

faculties are inadequate as compared with the science faculty. Lack of formal training on

how to access e-resources, lack of computers, slow speed, time limitation and lack of far-

off access are the main problems to the effective use of internet.

57

Syed Attaullah Shah, Shah Masood and Azra Quraishi (2005) write that there are three

major digital library services in Aga Khan University Library in Karachi. These are: CD

library, non-book material and Selective Dissemination of Information (SDI) services.

2.5 Conclusion

Literature reviewed shows that the applications of digital technology have

affected all spheres of libraries. The emergence of modern library trends has a

positive impact on university library services and resources in the developed and

developing countries. It has also modernized the university libraries in Pakistan.

The literature reviewed also highlights some of the barriers to the adaptation of

modern library technologies in the world. The literature also contains solutions to

these barriers.

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CHAPTER THREE

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

The purpose of this study is to take a survey of the technology-based services and

resources of the public sector university libraries in Pakistan. This work will help in

obtaining a clear picture of the level of application of emerging technologies and its

impact on university libraries. This chapter covers the research design, sources of data,

method of analysis of data and its interpretation.

The importance of a university library in the academic setup as the basic source of

information to satisfy the information needs of the academics is well established. It is

evident that the traditional methods of management of university libraries will not be able

to deal with the onslaught of ‘information explosion’. Uses of emerging technologies in

university libraries prove to be a better solution to this. Digital technology capabilities

such as tremendous speed, huge capacity to store ocean of information on a tiny storage

media like CDs and DVDs, enormous capabilities to repetitive jobs in libraries without

exhaustion, the radical power to sort, arrange, retrieve and disseminate information, its

capacity to collect information from anywhere in the world-wide networks has made the

digital technology indispensable in the university libraries.

3.1 Research design

To arrive at a concrete conclusion and to meet the specific objectives of the present

research study, different research methodologies (questionnaires, interviews and

observation) have been employed. The study is also supported by comprehensive

literature review and web analysis.

The total population of the present investigation was the libraries and information

resource centers of the public sector universities of the country. The detailed information

about the mailing addresses, contact numbers, web addresses and nature of these

universities and university libraries have been accessed from the website of Higher

59

Education Commission in Islamabad. There are a total 132 Universities / Degree

Awarding Institutions (DAIs) in Pakistan. Out of these, 73 are public sector universities

while the rest are working in private sector. As the universe of the investigation was not

too large, therefore no sampling was made and questionnaires were distributed to all

librarians of the 73 public sector universities. At the same time, separate questionnaires

were designed and distributed among the users of the university libraries. The response

rate was good. The province wise feedback of the questionnaires is recorded in Table 4.1

and Table 4.43

The data collected through present survey was complemented by interviews, observation

and visits to the university libraries and web analyses. Basic statistical tools and simple

percentage analyses have been used for the processing of data. Statistical Package for

Social Sciences Software (SPSS) and Excel have been used, which will be explained later

on.

3.2 Sources of data

The methodology is based on primary and secondary data; both these tools have helped to

understand the cause and solution of the problem in drawing conclusions.

1. Primary data has been collected by means of questionnaires, personal

meetings and discussions with library professionals and from interviews of

library clientele, researchers, faculty of the university who visit the library.

2. Secondary data has been collected from the different published sources i.e

Reports and publications of various associations connected with library

and information science profession.

Conference proceedings and other such documents of various social

sciences and cultural bodies.

Books

Periodicals/Library Journals and Newspapers.

60

Documents published by International Organizations.

Internet and browsing of various problem- oriented web pages.

Libraries of reputed institutions.

HEC Digital Library.

3.3 Data collection methods

3.3.1 Questionnaire survey

Two different questionnaires with different designs, pattern and questions were

developed and used in the study namely: Questionnaire for Chief Librarians and

Questionnaire for readers. The questionnaires for librarians and readers were prepared

through a pilot study carried out by the researcher in 13 university libraries of Khyber

Pakhtunkhwa. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was selected for the simple reason that this is the

researcher’s resident province. The main goal of piloting was to enhance the validity of

the questionnaire.

The questionnaire distributed to the librarians aimed to get data about general information

of the university libraries, current services provided by the libraries, existing resources,

emerging technology infrastructure, modern information literacy (user education)

programs, university library networking, barriers to the implementation of emerging

library technologies, attitude of library managers towards modern library trends in

university libraries and comparative analyses of hard and soft learning resources. A cover

letter was attached to the questionnaire highlighting the significance of the research topic.

The questionnaire administered to users was to obtain information about the status of

library users, purpose and frequency of library visits by the users, use of library and

information services/tools, rating of the quantity and quality of the traditional learning

resources in university libraries, opinion about skills and expertise to use technology

based services and resources, actual use of emerging technologies(if offered), views

about the need for a workshop/orientation program in technology based services and

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resources, purpose of using internet in the library and opinions about significant change

in speed of academic/ research work by using digital library technologies. Efforts had

been made to know the extent of their satisfaction with this technology based services

and resources.

3.3.2 Personal visit and observation of the libraries

Observation technique of data collection is more effective for testing and checking of

data obtained through the questionnaire. For the present study, visits were made from

time to time to the libraries of different major universities to observe and collect

information about the existing library facilities, resources and functions, to ascertain the

technology based skill and expertise of the library professionals and users and to assess

the degree of utilization of these facilities.

3.4 Data analysis techniques

The data collected from different resources were analyzed and inferences were made

using standard statistical methods. The analyses of the questionnaire, interview schedules

and observation data provided the researcher an in-depth interpretation of research

objectives. The objectives and hypotheses of the present study required the application of

the following major statistical techniques:

3.4.1 Percentage analysis

Simple percentage analysis had been undertaken to study the available services and

resources and the implementation of digital technology in public sector university

libraries of Pakistan.

3.4.2 Basic statistical tools (Mean, SD, CV)

The mean (X), standard deviation (SD) and co-efficient of variation (CV) are the simplest

statistical tools widely used to measure the concentration and dispersion of respondents’

opinion. The average X had been calculated. This step has been followed by SD and CV.

The processed data had been recorded and presented in table forms. These basic

statistical tools have been calculated to examine the concentration and dispersion of

62

librarians’ and users’ opinion. The minimum value of Standard Deviation and Co-

efficient of Variation exhibits the consistency of respondents’ opinion, while the highest

value of these basic statistical techniques indicate the variability of librarians’

/users’opinion.

3.4.3 Chi-square test

This test is one of the simple and most widely used statistical tools in statistical analysis.

Chi –square is a measure of actual divergence of the observed and expected frequencies

(or values). If the actual and observed frequencies are the same, then the value of the chi-

square is zero. The greater the discrepancy between observed and expected frequencies,

the greater is the value of c2. If the table value is greater than the calculated value of chi-

square, it indicates that the difference between actual and observed frequencies may have

risen due to chance of fluctuation and can be ignored. The quantity Chi-Square is defined

as:

Chi-square= ∑(O-E)(O-E)/E

1- Calculate the expected frequencies

2- Take the difference between observed and expected frequencies and obtain the

square of these differences i.e. obtain the value of (O-E)2

3- Divide the quantity (O-E)2 obtained in step(ii) by the expected frequency and

obtain the overall sum .

This gives the value of chi square and is compared with the table value of chi square for

given degree of freedom at a certain specified level of significance. If the table value of

chi square is less than the calculated value of chi-square, the difference between theory

and observation is considered to be significant. If, on the other hand, table value is more

than the calculated value of chi-square, the difference between theory and observation is

not considered as significant.

 

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CHAPTER FOUR

ANALYSIS OF DATA AND INTERPRETATION

The data collected from university library websites and central libraries of public sector

universities have been evaluated and interpreted. Data were collected using questionnaire

and interview techniques from the university libraries and from select sample of users of

the universities in the country. The analyses of the data and interpretation are presented in

two major sections with subsections as under:

1. Librarians’ response towards the implementation and impact of digital technology

on public sector university libraries

2. Users' response towards the implementation and impact of digital technologies on

university libraries.

4.1 Librarians' response towards the application and impact of digital

technology on university libraries

The role of university librarians has changed to some extent with the emergence of

modern library technologies. These latest library technologies have enhanced the

users’ approach towards the accessibility of information. As a result, university

librarians are engaged in serving the users on modern library lines.

In order to explore the impact of digital technology on the central libraries of the

public sector universities in the country, it was felt necessary to collect data from the

Librarians about the existing manual as well as automated library services and

resources. The interpretation of the collected data has helped the researcher to make

recommendations for solving the problem in the final chapter.

4.1.1 Available services, resources and digital technology infrastructure in

university libraries

This section contains data about general information regarding university libraries,

number of library users visiting the libraries and digital library sections of university

libraries, available services, traditional and technology-based resources. Following are

 

  64

the details of the statistical analysis and interpretation of the data collected from the

librarians through the structured questionnaires, interviews, visits to the libraries and

web analysis. Keeping in view the objectives of the study, the analysis of the

consolidated data has been accomplished using Excel and Statistical Package for

Social Sciences (SPSS).

4.1.1.1 Broad-spectrum information

This section contains the general information about the number of libraries

participated in the survey, establishment of PSU libraries, inception and current

position of modern library technologies in university libraries, status of library users

and their visits to the libraries and digital library sections of the relevant university

libraries.

Response rate of participated universities in the survey

In Pakistan there are a total of 73 public sector universities as of 2010. The

questionnaire framed for university librarians were distributed to the central libraries

of the public sector universities in the country. The responses have been received

from 61 public sector universities i.e. 84 % of the universities.

Table 4.1 - Response rate of participated universities

Geographical Zone Total PSUL Responded PSUL Not responded Response rate

Islamabad 13 11 02 84%

Punjab 22 18 06 82%

Sindh 14 12 02 85%

Khyber Pakhtun Khwa 15 13 02 87%

Balochistan 06 05 01 84%

AJK & NA 03 02 01 66%

Total 73 61 12 84%

Those university librarians who have not responded are due to their busy schedule and some

could not respond because the political conditions were sensitive.

 

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Establishment of PSU libraries

The following table shows the details of the establishment of Public Sector Universities.

Table 4.2 shows that 27(44%) out of 61 responded Public Sector Universities (PSU) of the

country have been established after year 2000. This Table also shows that there were only

two universities for the whole population of the country in 1947. These universities were the

University of the Punjab and the University of Sindh.

Table 4.2- Establishment of Public Sector Universities (PSU) -

___________________________________________________________________________________

Date of Estt: of PSU Islamabad Punjab Sindh Balochistan KPK AJK&NA Total

Before Independence 00 01 01 00 00 00 02

1947-1959 01 01 02 00 01 00 05

1960-1969 01 03 01 00 00 00 05

1970-1979 01 03 04 01 01 00 10

1980-1989 01 00 01 01 02 01 06

1990-1999 01 03 02 00 00 00 06

2000- to 2010 06 07 01 03 09 01 27

Total 11 18 12 05 13 02 61

Commencement of library automation in the PSU libraries

The data regarding inception of library automation in these university libraries has been

categorized into two groups: commencement of library automation before year 2000 and after

year 2000. Table 4.3 gives the information regarding library automation commencement in

the university libraries.

Table 4.3-Commencement of library automation in PSU libraries

Date of Commence of Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

Library Automation

Before Year 2000 04(36%) 02(12%) 01(13%) 02(18%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 09

After Year 2000 07(64%) 15(88%) 07(87%) 07(45%) 02(40%) 01(50%) 39

Total 11 17 08 09 02 01 48

Note: The remaining 13 out of 61 universities are not mentioned here because they have not

automated their university libraries

 

  66

It is clear from Table 4.3 that 39(81%) out of 48 university libraries were computerized or

have started automation after year 2000. Only 09(19%) university libraries were automated

before year 2000.

When the librarians were asked to provide information about the current status of automation

of public sector university libraries in Pakistan, the respondents gave their opinion in the

following manner. Table 4.4 contains the data which reflects the situation of automation of

university libraries of Pakistan.

Table 4.4 -Status of library automation in PSU libraries under study

Status of library Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

Automation

Fully automated 10(91%) 10((56%) 06(50%) 02(15%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 28

Partially automated 01(9%) 07(39%) 02(17%) 07(54%) 02(40%) 01(50%) 20

Not automated 00(00%) 01(5%) 04(33%) 04(31%) 03(60%) 01(50%) 13

Total 11 18 12 13 05 02 61

Table 4.4 reveals that 28 (46%) out of 61 are fully automated, 20 (33%) have partial

automation and 13 (21%) have not yet started automation.

Province-wise automation

Table 4.4 shows that 10(91 %) out of 11 of the university libraries of Islamabad,

10(56%) out of 18 in Punjab,

06(50%) out of 12 in Sindh and

02(15%) out of 13 in Khyber Pakhtun Khwa (KPK) .

Province-wise partial automation

01(9%) in Islamabad,

07(39%) out of 18 in Punjab,

02(17%) out of 12 in Sindh

The analysis of the data reflects that 07(54%) out of 13 university libraries in KPK,

 

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02(40%) out of 05 in Balochistan and

01(50%) out of 02 in AJK and Northern Areas.

Province-wise non-automated libraries

According to Table 4.4,

01(5%) out of 18 in Punjab,

04(33%) out of 12 in Sindh,

04(31%) out of 13 in KPK,

03(60%) out of 05 university libraries in Balochistan and

01(50%) out of 02 in AJK and NA are not automated

Not a single university library in Balochistan has been reported as fully automated library

while Islamabad university libraries are all automated.

No. of users who visit university libraries on a daily basis

This section contains information about the average daily visits of the users to the public

sector university libraries. Table 4.5 contains the details of the users' visits to the university

libraries.

Table 4.5 –Users’ visits to libraries per day

No. of Library users' Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

Visit

Users visit <=200 02(18%) 07(39%) 06(50%) 04(31%) 03(60%) 00(00%) 22

Users visit between 04(36%) 07(39%) 01(08%) 04(31%) 01(20%) 01(50%) 18

200 and 500

Users visit >500 05(46%) 04(22%) 05(42%) 05(38%) 01(20%) 01(50%) 21

Total 11 18 12 13 05 02 61

Province-wise users’ visit per day (>500)

It is evident from Table 4.5 that 05(45%) out of 11 of the university libraries of Islamabad,

04(22%) out of 18 in Punjab,

05(42%) out of 12 in Sindh,

05(39%) out of 13 in KPK,

 

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01(20%) out of 5 in Blaochistan and

01(50%) out of 02 in AJK and NA have more than 500 users’ visit per day.

Province-wise users’ visit per day (between 200 and 500)

04(36%) out of 11 in Islamabad,

07(39%) out of 18 in Punjab,

01(8%) out of 12 in Sindh,

04(31%) in KPK,

01(20%) out of 5 in Balochistan and

01(50%) out of 2 in AJK and NA have users’ visit between 200 and 500.

Province-wise users’ visit per day (<200)

02(18%) out of 11 university libraries in Islamabad

07(39%) out of 18 in Punjab,

Half 06(12) of the university libraries of Sindh,

04(31%) out of 13 in KPK,

03(60%) out of 05 of the university libraries in Balochistan have less than or equal to 200

users’ visit per day.

Table 4.5 shows that 22(36%) out of 61 university libraries recorded, average daily users’

visit less than or equal to 200,

18 (30%) university libraries recorded average daily users’ visit between 200 and 500 and

21(34%) claimed average daily users’ visits greater than 500.

No. of users who visit digital library sections of university libraries

The library which contains digital materials and services can be accessed both online and

offline through electronic media. Table 4.6 shows information about the users' visits to the

digital library section of the university libraries.

 

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Table 4.6- No. of users visiting digital library sections of the PSU universities on a daily

basis

No. of Library users’ Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

Visit

Users visited <=100 05(45%) 09(50%) 06(50%) 08(72%) 05(100%) 00(00%) 33

Users visited between 05(45%) 03(17%) 03(25%) 03(27%) 00(00%) 01(50%) 15

100 and 200

Users visited >200 01(9%) 06(33%) 03(25%) 02(15%) 00(00%) 01(50%) 13

Total 11 18 12 13 05 02 61

Province-wise visit to digital section on a daily basis (les than or equal to 100 users)

Table 4.6 shows that 05(45%) out of 11 in Islamabad,

09(50%) out of 18 in Punjab,

06(50%) out of 12 university libraries of Sindh,

08(72%) out of 13 university libraries of KPK and

05(100%) out of 5 university libraries of Balochistan reported less than or equal to 100 users’

visit the digital section of the concerned libraries.

Province-wise visit to digital section on a daily basis (between 100 and 200 users)

05(45%) out of 11 university libraries in Islamabad,

03(17%) out of 18 in Punjab,

03(25%) out of 12 in Sindh,

03(27%) out of 13 in KPK and

01(50%) university libraries of AJK and NA users visit the digital section as between 100 and

200.

Province-wise visit to digital section on a daily basis (greater than 200 users)

01(9%) out of 11 university libraries in Islamabad,

06(33%) out of 18 in Punjab,

03(25%) out of 12 in Sindh,

02(15%) out of 13 in KPK and

01(50%) of the university libraries of AJK and NA recorded the average daily users’ visit to

 

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the digital section is more than 200.

Table 4.6 reveals that 33 (54%) out of 61 university libraries recorded daily users’ visit as

less than or equal to 100,

15(25%) of the university libraries claimed daily users’ visit to digital library section as

between 100 and 200 and

13(21%) university libraries reported about the daily users’ visits to digital section is above

200.

4.1.1.2 Available services provided by the PSU libraries

This sub-section contains data related to general and technical services provided, user

education, internet provision to the users, availability of library webpage.

General services provided by the public sector university libraries in Pakistan

The general or basic library services include circulation, new arrivals’ lists, inter library loan,

reference services, current awareness services, photocopying facilities, fax and newspaper

clipping services. The following Table 4.7 provides information about the availability of

basic library services.

Table 4.7-General services provided by PSU Libraries under study

Services provided Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

Circulation services 11(100%) 18(100%) 12(100%) 13(100%) 05(100%) 02(100%) 61

New Arrival List 11(100%) 17(94%) 09(75%) 09(81%) 05(100%) 01(50%) 52

Inter Library Loan 08(72%) 11(61%) 01(9%) 04(36%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 24

Reference services 11(100%) 18(100%) 12(100%) 13(100%) 05|(100%) 02(100% 61

Current Awareness 11(100%) 13(72%) 03(25%) 10(80%) 03(60%) 01(50%) 41

Services

Selective Dissemination 06(54%) 10(55%) 02(16%) 07(58%) 01(20%) 00(00%) 26

Of Information

Photocopying services 11(100%) 17(94%) 12(100%) 06(50%) 04(80%) 2(100%) 52

 

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Fax 06(54%) 10(55%) 02(16%) 05(42%) 00(00%) 01(50%) 24

Newspaper clipping 04(36%) 08(44%) 03(25%) 03(27%) 04(80%) 00(00%) 22

It is clearly evident from Table 4.7 that all the public sector university libraries of the country

offer circulation and reference services.

52 (85%) out of 61 provide New Arrivals’ Lists and Photocopying facilities to their readers.

41(67%) out of 61 provide Current Awareness Services to the users.

24 (39%) out of 61 offer Inter Library Loan and Fax services to their readers.

22(36%) out of 61 provide Newspaper Clipping Services to their readers and potential users.

Technical services provided by the PSU libraries

Technical processing includes classification, cataloguing and assigning subject headings to

the documents and is carried out to provide better services to the readers. Moreover, adopting

international standards help the libraries in sharing the library resources in the present global

village. Table 4.8 shows the technical services carried out by the university libraries.

Table 4.8 Technical services offered by the PSU Libraries

Technical processing Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Baluchistan AJK&NA Total

Classification Scheme followed:

DDC 10(91%) 18(100%) 11(92%) 011(85%) 05(100%) 02(100%) 57

Others 01(09%) 00(00%) 01(8%) 02(15%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 04

Cataloguing rules applied:

AACR2 10(91%) 16(89%) 12(100%) 11(81%) 05(100%) 02(100%) 56

Other 01(09%) 02(11%) 00(00%) 01(09%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 04

Not using any rule 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 01(09%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 01

Assignment of Subject headings:

SLSH 02(18%) 05(28%) 02(08%) 03(23%) 03(60%) 01(20%) 16

LCSH 05(45%) 05(28%) 02(08%) 05(38%) 02(40%) 00(0%) 19

Other 02(18%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 02(18%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 04

Not using SHL 02(18%) 08(44%) 08(67%) 03(27%) 00(00%) 01(500%) 22

Note: SLSHL= Sears List of Subject Headings List LCSHL= Library of Congress Subject Headings List

It is obvious from the Table 4.8 that 57(93%) out of 61 public sector university libraries in

 

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the country are using Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) for the classification of library

collection.

Table 4.8 shows that 56(92%) out of 61 of university libraries are using Anglo-American

Cataloguing Rules-2 (AACR-2) Revised Edition (2002) for the cataloguing of their library

materials.

When asked about the usage of Subject Headings Lists by university libraries, it was stated

that 22(36%) out of 61 are not using any Subject Headings Lists for assigning subject

headings in technical processing of library collection.

Satisfaction about the usage of technical services provided by the university libraries

A question was asked from the chief librarians of the university libraries to know about the

satisfaction of technical services provided by these libraries. The response rate has been

recorded in Table 4.9.

Table 4.9 -Satisfaction about the usage of technical services

Satisfaction about the Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

usage of technical services

Classification scheme

Yes 11(100%) 18(100%) 12(100%) 13(100%) 05(100%) 02(100%) 61(100%)

No -------- ------ ------- ------- ------- ------- 00(00%)

Cataloguing rules

Yes 11(100%) 16(89%) 12(100 12(95%) 05(100%) 02(100%) 58(95%)

No ------- 02(11%) ----- 1(05%) ------- -------- 03(05%)

Subject Headings List

Yes 09(81%) 10(56%) 04(33%) 10(77%) 05(100%) 01(50%) 39(64%)

No 02(18%) 08(44%) 08(67%) 03(23%) 00(00%) 01(50%) 22(36%)

The analysis of Table 4.9 shows that all the librarians (100%) of the public sector

universities are satisfied with the classification scheme they are using.

58(95%) out of 61 university librarians are satisfied with the AACR-2 Revised Edition used

for the cataloguing of library materials.

 

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39(64%) out of 61 respondents are satisfied with the subject headings list in use.

Availability of internet in PSU Libraries of Pakistan

Internet is the international network of online computer terminals. It is a world- wide system

of interrelated links. The internet facilitates information exchange across the globe.

University libraries or information centres in Pakistan need this facility in the present digital

era. Emerging technologies have made it possible to produce, share and utilize the flood of

information. The speed and quality of internet facility is of utmost importance in research.

Table 4.10 shows the availability of internet facility in the public sector university libraries of

Pakistan.

Table 4.10: Availability of internet connectivity

Internet availibity Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

10 Years + 04(36%) 08(44%) 06(50%) 02(15%) 00(00%) 01(50%) 21(34%)

3-9 Years 07(64%) 06(33%) 06(50%) 07(54%) 04(80% 01(50%) 31(51%)

Less than 2 years 00(00%) 04(22%) 00(00%) 04(31%) 01(20% 00(00%) 09(15%)

Total 11 18 12 13 05 02 61

04(36%) out 11 public sector university libraries in Islamabad,

08(44%) out of 18 in Punjab,

06(50%) out of 12 in Sindh,

02(15%) out of 13 in KPK and

01(50%) out of 2 in AJK and NA have more than 10 years old internet availability.

This shows that 07(64%) out of 11 university libraries in Islamabad,

06(33%) out of 18 in Punjab,

06(50%) out of 12 in Sindh,

07(54%) out of 13 in KPK,

04(80%) out of 5 in Balochistan and

01(50%) out of 02 in AJK and NA have 3-9 years old internet connectivity.

 

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It is also evident that 04(22%) out of 18 in Punjab,

04(31%) out of 13 in KPK and

01(20%) out of 05 in Balochistan have only two or less than two years old internet

connectivity.

Table 4.10 shows that 31(50%) out of 61 public sector university libraries have 3-9 years old

internet connectivity.

21(34%) out of 61 university libraries have more than 10 years old internet connectivity.

09(15%) out of 61 have two or less than two years old internet facility.

Speed of internet

The speed of internet plays a vital role in the exchange of data, ideas and information. It is the

tool which can save time, money and labour of a user. In Pakistan, slow speed of internet is

also considered as a barrier to the promotion of digital library system. The following table

indicates the speed of internet connection.

Table 4.11-Speed of internet connection

___________________________________________________________________________

Speed of internet Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

< 100 mbps 02(18%) 09(50%) 05(42%) 08(65%) 04(80%) 00(00%) 28(46%)

= 100 mbps 09(82%) 09(50%) 03(25%) 05(35%) 01(20%) 01(50%) 28(46%)

>100 mbps 00(00%) 00(00%) 04(33%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 01(50%) 05(08%)

Total 11 18 12 13 05 02 61

Table 4.11 reflects that 28(46%) out of 61 in public sector university libraries have less than

100 mbps internet speed,

28(46%) out of 61 have equal to 100 mbps speed and

only 05(8%) of university libraries have more than 100 mbps internet speed.

02(18%) out of 11 in university libraries of Islamabad,

09(50%) out of 18 in Punjab,

 

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05(42%) out of 12 in Sindh,

08(65%) out of 13 in KPK,

o4 (80%) in Balochistan have less than 100 mbps internet speed.

09(82%) out of 11 university libraries in Islamabad,

09(50%) out of 18 university libraries of Punjab,

03(25%) out of 12 in Sindh,

05(35%) out of 13 in KPK ,

01(20%) out of 05 in Balochistan and

01(50%) out of 02 in AJK and NA have 100 mbps internet speed.

04(33%) out of 12 university libraries in Sindh and

01(50%) out of 02 university libraries of AJK and NA have more than 100 mbps internet

speed.

Computers having internet connectivity

The following Table contains information about the number of computers having internet

connection.

Table 4.12- Computers having internet connection

Number of computers Islamabad Punjab Sindh K PK Balochistan AJK& NA Total

having internet

<= 15 07(64%) 06(33%) 07(58%) 08(60%) 04(80%) 01(50%) 33(54%)

Between 16 and

50 02(18%) 06(33%) 02(17%) 03(24%) 01(20%) 01(50%) 15(25%)

More than 50 02(18%) 06(34) 03(25%) 02(16%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 13(21%)

Total 11 18 12 13 05 02 61

Table 4.12 shows that 33(54%) out of 61 public sector university libraries in Pakistan have

internet connections on less than or equal to 15 computers,

15(25%) out of 61 have internet connections on 16- 50 computers and

 

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13(21%) out of 61 have internet connections on more than 50 computers.

A break-down of province-wise internet connection is shown as under

Internet connection on 15 or less than 15 computers:

07(64%) out of 11 of the university libraries in Islamabad,

06(33%) out of 18 in Punjab,

07(58%) out of 12 in Sindh,

08(60%) in KPK,

04(80%) out of 05 in Balochistan and

01(50%) in AJK and NA.

Internet connection on 16-50 computers:

02(18%) out of 11 in Islamabad,

06(33%)) out of 18 in Punjab,

02(17%) out of 12 in Sindh,

03(24%) out of 13 in KPK,

01(20%) out of 05 in Balochistan and

01(50%) out of 02 in AJK and NA.

Internet connection on more than 50 computers:

02(18%) out of 11 in Islamabad,

06(34%) out of 18 in Punjab,

03(25%) out of 12 in Sindh and

02(16%) out of 13 in KPK have internet connections on more than 50 computers.

Whether internet is fee or free based?

Table 4.13 Status of internet

___________________________________________________________________________

Charges of internet Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

Free 11(100%) 18(100%) 10(83%) 13(100%) 05(100%) 02(100%) 59(97%)

Fee based 00(00%) 00(00%) 02(17%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 02(03%)

Total 11 18 12 13 05 02 61

 

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Table 4.13 shows that 59(97%) out of 61 public sector university libraries of the country

provide free internet facilities to their users.

Only 02(03%) out of 61 charge a very nominal fee from the internet users at their respective

university libraries.

All the public sector university libraries in Islamabad, Punjab, KPK, Balochistan and AJK

and NA provide free internet facility to their library patrons.

Only two libraries charge nominal fee from their internet users.

Provision of user education by libraries

With the emergence of Digital Technology (DT), which has influenced almost all the

functions of the university libraries, it is necessary to see the working of a library to new

entrants in detail. The main aim of the user education program is to enable the patrons to fully

utilize the resources of the library. Bello (2003:1-6)1 states that user education program of the

library is a device through which the librarians try to educate the users. The following Table

4.14 shows provision of user education to the users by library professionals.

Table 4.14-Provision of User Education

Provision of User Education Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

User Education 09(82%) 10(56%) 07(58%) 07(54%) 02(40%) 02(100%) 37(61%)

Provided

User Education 02(18%) 08(44%) 05(42%) 06(46%) 03(60%) 00(00%) 24(39%)

Not provided

Total 11 18 12 13 05 02 61

According to Table 4.14, 37(61%) out of 61 university libraries provide user education to

their users, while 24(39%) out of 61 have no such program of educating their users.

09(82%) out of 11 university libraries of Islamabad,

10(56%) out of 18 in Punjab,

07(58%) in Sindh,

07(54%) in KPK,

 

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02(40%) in Balochistan and

02(100%) in AJK and NA provide user education to educate the users in emerging library

technologies, library services and resources.

Table 4.14 shows that 02(18%) out of 11 in Islamabad,

08(44%) out of 18 in Punjab,

05(42%) out of 12 in Sindh,

06(46%) out of 13 in KPK and

03 (60%) out of 05 in Balochistan have no program for the user education of their clientele.

Frequency and timings of user education

This Table contains information regarding the frequency and duration of user education

provided to the library users.

Table 4.15 Frequency and timings of user education

Frequency Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

In the beginning 06(54%) 06(60%) 05(71%) 04(57%) 01(50%) 01(50%) 23(62%)

of academic year

In every semester 02(18%) 02(20%) 01(14%) 01(14%) 01(50%) 00(00%) 07(19%)

When requested 01(09%) 02(20%) 01(14%) 02(29%) 00(00%) 01(50%) 07(19%)

Total 09 10 07 07 02 02 37

When inquired about the frequency and timings of user education program provided by the

librarians, 23 (62%) out of 37 respondents reported that they provide user education in the

beginning of the academic year, 07(19%) out of 37 librarians claimed that they provide this

service in the beginning of every semester and the same number of librarians responded that

they provide user education as per request.

06(54%) out of 9 university librarians in Islamabad, 06(60%) out of 10 librarian in Punjab,

05(71%) out of 7 librarians in Sindh,

04(57%) out of 7 university librarians in KPK,

 

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01(50%) out of 02 in Balochistan and

01(50%) out of 02 in AJK and NA are providing user education in the beginning of every

academic year.

Table 4.15 shows that 02(18%) out of 09 university librarians in Islamabad,

02(20%) out of 10 in Punjab,

01(14%) out of 7 in Sindh,

01(14%) in KPK and

01(50%) in Balochistan have the routine to provide user education in the beginning of every

semester.

As per Table 4.15, 01(09%) out of 09 in Islamabad,

02(20%) out of 10 in Punjab,

01(14%) out of 07 in Sindh,

02(29%) out of 07 in KPK and

01(50%) out of 02 in AJK and NA provide the service when the users request for it.

Duration of user education program

When asked about the duration of user education program, respondents expressed their

opinion as shown in the following Table 4.16. The librarians were given five options

mentioned below:

Table 4.16- Duration of user education program

Duration of User

Education Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

Half an hour 00(00%) 02(20%) 02(29%) 02(29%) 00(00%) 01(50%) 07(19%)

One hour 05(56%) 05(50%) 03(43%) 02(29%) 01(50%) 01(50%) 17(46%)

One day 04(44%) 03(30%) 02(28%) 02(43%) 01(50%) 00(00%) 12(32%)

Two days 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 01(14%) ` 00(00%) 00(00%) 01(03%)

Any other ----- ------- ------ ------ --- ---- ----

Total 09 10 07 07 02 02 37

 

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Table 4.16 shows that 17(46%) out of 37 university libraries provide one hour user education

to their users,

12(32%) out of 37 university libraries have one day user education program,

07(19%) out of 37 reported that they provide half an hour user education to their patrons and

01(03%) out of 37 claimed two days user education program.

02(20%) out of 10 in Punjab,

02(29%) out of 07 in Sindh,

02(29%) out of 07 in KPK and

01(50%) out of 02 in AJK and NA provide half an hour user education program.

Table 4.16 shows that 05(56%) out of 09 university libraries in Islamabad,

05(50%) out of 10 in Punjab,

03(43%) out of 07 in Sindh,

02(29%) in KPK,

01(50%) out of 02 in Balochistan and

01(50%) out of 02 in AJK and NA provide one hour user education program.

04(44%) out of 09 public sector university libraries in Islamabad,

03(30%) out of 10 in Punjab,

02(29%) in Sindh and

01(50%) out of 02 university library in Balochistan provide one day user education program.

The above Table 4.16 also show that 01(14%) out of 07 in KPK reported that they have two

days user education program for their users.

Who conducts user education

When asked from the librarians of public sector university libraries about the statement “who

is responsible for providing user education to the users?”. The response of the respondents is

given in Table 4.17

 

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Table 4.17-Who conducts user education

Who conduct Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

User education

Librarian 08(89%) 08(80%) 07(100%) 06(85%) 02(100%) 02(100%) 33(89%)

Assistant Librarian 01(11%) 02(20%) 00(00%) 01(15%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 04(11%)

Faculty member ------- ------- --------- -------- ------ -------- 00

Any Other ----- ------ --------- ------- -------- ------ 00

Total 09 10 07 07 02 02 37

It is evident from Table 4.17 that 33(89%) out of 37 university librarians conduct user

education program in their respective libraries. 04(11%) out of 37 reported that the task is

performed by the Assistant Librarians.

08(89%) out of 09 university librarians in Islamabad,

08(80%) out of 10 in Punjab,

07(100%) out of 7 in Sindh,

06(85%) out of 07 in KPK,

02(100%) in Balochistan and

02(100%) out of 02 university librarians in AJK and NA are responsible for educating their

users in their respective libraries.

Table 4.17 shows that 01(11%) out of 09 university libraries in Islamabad,

02(20%) out of 10 in Punjab and

01(15%) out of 07 university libraries in KPK have assigned this duty to the Assistant

librarian.

 

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Impact of user education program

The librarians were inquired whether user education program has positive impact on

university library services and resources or not? The response of the library professionals has

been recorded in Table 4.18

Table 4.18-Impact of user education program on users’ library services and resources

Whether UEP has positive Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&N Total

Impact on Library services and

Resources

Yes 09(100%) 10(100%) 07(100%) 07(100%) 02(100%) 02(100%) 37(100%)

No --------- -------- ---------- ---------- --------- -------- 00

Total 09 10 07 07 02 02 37

Table 4.18 elucidates that all the responded university librarians are of the opinion that user

education program has a positive impact on library services and resources.

4.1.1.3 Available resources in the PSU libraries of Pakistan

The library resources include learning resources, human resources, financial resources,

technology based resources and physical resources. Data has been collected about various

library resources to explore the current situation of and suggest ways and means for their

improvement.

Learning resources

Learning resources means printed and electronic resources. The printed resources include

books, journals, magazines, technical reports, theses, manuscripts, rare books, newspapers

and non-book materials. The electronic resources include online and offline learning

resources. The following Table contains information about the learning resources.

Table 4.19 - Learning resources of the public sector universities

_______________________________________________________________________

Learning Resources Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total _____________________________________________________________________________________

Books <=50000 08(72%) 08(44%) 05(42%) 08(62%) 04(80%) 01(50%) 34(56%) 50001-100000 01 (09%) 06(33%) 03(25%) 02(15%) 00(00%) 01(50%) 13(21%) 100001-200000 02(19%) 02(11%) 02(17%) 03(23%) 01(20%) 00(00%) 10(16%) 200000+ 00(00%) 02(11%) 02(17%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 04(07%)

 

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______________________________________________________________________________________ Total 11 18 12 13 05 02 61

Research Journals

<= 50 09(81%) 09(50%) 12(100%) 09(69%) 05(100%) 02(100%) 46 50+ 02(19%) 09(50%) 00(00%) 04(31%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 15

Total 11 18 12 13 05 02 61 ______________________________________________________________________________________ Newspaper

<= 10 09(82%) 14(78%) 09(75%) 10(77%) 03(60%) 02(100%) 47 10+ 02(18%) 04(22%) 03(25%) 03(23%) 02(20%) 00(00%) 14

Total 11 18 12 13 05 02 61

Manuscripts <= 200 02(18%) 04(22%) 02(17%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 08

200+ 00(00%) 01(5%) 01(08%) 02(15%) 01(20%) 00(00%) 05 No manuscripts 09(82%) 13(72%) 09(75%) 11(85%) 04(80%) 02(100%) 48 Total 11 18 12 13 05 02 61

NBM

<=1000 04(37%) 14(78%) 08(67%) 09(69%) 02(40%) 02(100%) 39 1000+ 07(63%) 04(22%) 04(33%) 04(31%) 03(60%) 00(00% 22 Total 11 18 12 13 05 02 61

Digital Resources CD-Rom 06(54%) 10(56%) 05(42%) 05(38%) 01(20%) 00(00%) 27 HEC Digital Library 11(100%) 18(100%) 12(100%) 13(100%) 05(100%) 02(100%) 61

Table 4.19 shows that 34 (58%) out of 61 public sector university libraries have less than

or equal to 50000(fifty thousand) learning resources.

13 (21%) out of 61 university libraries have library collection ranging from 50001-

100000,

10 (16%) out of 61 have library materials ranging from 100001-200000 and

04(6%) out of 61 have more than 200,000 learning resources in their library premises.

Table 4.19 shows that 08(72%) out of 11 university libraries in Islamabad,

08(44%) out of 18 university libraries in Punjab,

05(42%) out of 12 in Sindh,

08(62%) out of 13 in KPK,

04(80%) out of 05 in Balochistan and

01(50%) out of 02 in AJK and NA have less than or equal to 50000 library books in their

 

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respective libraries.

01(09%) out of 11 in Islamabad,

06(33%) out of 18 in Punjab, 03(25%) out of 12 in Sindh,

02(15%) in KPK and

01(50%) in AJK & NA have library books ranging from 50001- 100001.

02(19%) out of 11 public sector university libraries in Islamabad,

02(11%) out of 11 in Punjab,

02(17%) out of 12 in Sindh, 03(23%) out of 13 in KPK and

01(20%) out of 05 in Balochistan have library books ranging from 100001-200000.

02(11%) out of 18 university libraries in Punjab and

02(17%) in Sindh have more than 200,000 library books.

46(75%) out of 61 university libraries subscribes less or equal to 50 research journals

while rest 15(25%) out of 61 university libraries reported that they subscribe to more than

50 research journals.

09(81%) out of 11 of public sector university libraries in Islamabad,

09(50%) out of 18 in Punjab,

09(69%) out of 13 university libraries in KPK and

all (100 %) university libraries of Sindh , Balochistan and AJK &NA subscribe to less

than or equal to 50 research journals.

02(19%) out of 09 in Islamabad,

09(50%) out of 18 in Punjab and

04 (31%) out of 13 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa subscribe to more than 50 research journals

for their university libraries.

When asked about the frequency of daily newspapers of the public sector university

libraries, it was explained that 47(77%) out of a total of 61 are purchasing less than or

equal to 10 daily newspapers for the readers while remaining 14(23%) out of 61 have

more than 10 daily newspapers for the reading purposes of their clientele.

 

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02(19%) out of 11 in Islamabad,

04(22%) out of 18 in Punjab,

03(25%) out of 12 in Sindh,

03(23%) out of 13 in KPK and

02(40%) out of 05 in Balochistan subscribe to more than 10 daily newspapers.

The respondents were asked to report the presence of manuscripts in their respective

libraries. They replied that 48(79%) out of 61 have no manuscripts while 08(13%) out of

61 university libraries have less than or equal to 200 manuscripts and 05(8%) out of 61

university libraries reported that they have more than 200 manuscripts in their libraries.

Table 4.19 also includes non-book materials (nbms). It is seen from this Table that

39(64%) out of 61 university libraries have less than or equal to 1,000 number of Non-

Book Materials, while rest 22(36%) have more than 1000 nbms in their respective

university libraries.

Table 4.18 shows that all the public sector university libraries have access to HEC

National Digital Library Program.

Human Resource

Qualified and competent workforce is the backbone of any library. It is more important

than any other source. Nothing, but people can bring about a change and make a

difference. Table 4.20 consist of data about the strength of library staff in university

libraries in Pakistan.

Table 4.20- Strength of library staff

____________________________________________________________________

Human resources Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

1-10 staff 05(46%) 12(67%) 03(25%) 09(69%) 04(80%) 01(50%) 34(56%)

11-20 03(27%) 01(05%) 03(25%) 02(15%) 00(00%) 01(50%) 10(16%)

20+ 03(27%) 05(28%) 06(50%) 02(15%) 01(20%) 00(00%) 17(28%)

Total 11 18 12 13 05 02 61

 

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It is seen from Table 4.20 that a majority 34(56%) out of 61 university libraries have

human resources between the 1-10 workforce,

17(28%) out of 61 university libraries have more than 20 staff members for the operation

of their library functions and

10(16%) out of 61 have human resources ranging from 11-20.

Table 4.19 shows that 05(46%) out of 11university libraries from Islamabad,

12(67%) out of 18 in Punjab,

03(25%) out of 12 in Sindh,

09(69%) out of 13 in KPK,

04(80%) out of 05 in Balochistan and

01(50%) out of 02 public sector university libraries in AJK and NA have library staff

ranging from 1-10.

Table 4.19 shows that 03(27%) of the university libraries in Islamabad,

01(05%) in Punjab,

03(25%) in Sindh,

02(15%) in KPK and

01(50%) out of 02 from AJK and NA have library human resource ranging from 11-20.

Qualification of Library staff

A question was asked from the librarians of the university libraries of the country to

comment on the qualification attained by the university librarians. Various qualification

options were given like PhD, MPhil, MLISc( Master of Library and Information Science),

BLISc(Bachelor of Library and Information Science), PGD-LISc( Post Graduate Diploma

in Library and Information Science) and CLISc(Certificate in Library and Information

Science). Table 4.21 gives the information about the qualification of the librarians.

Table 4.21- Qualification of the library professionals

Qualification Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

PhD 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 Mphil 01 04 00 01 00 00 06(1%) MLISc 55 85 80 51 12 05 288(68%) BLISC/PGD LIS 15 14 16 08 02 01 56(13%) CLS 27 15 14 09 03 04 72(18%)

Total 98 118 110 69 17 10 422

 

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Note: The above Table contains the detail of staff of central libraries only. The seminar libraries are not included in this study.

Table 4.21 shows that not a single librarian holds a PhD degree in the public sector university

libraries of the country. There are only 06(1.4%) MPhil degree holders out of 422 total

professional and para-professional library staff in the country.

Majority 288(68%) out of 422 University librarians possess Masters’ degree in Library and

Information Science (MLISc).

Some 56(13%) out of 422 library professionals have Bachelor in Library and Information

Science (BLISc) or Post Graduate Diploma in Library and Information Science (PGD-LISc)

degrees.

27(6.4%) out of 422 library staff are Certificate holders in Library Science (CLISc).

Nature of human resources

A sub-question was asked to know as to how many library staff members are professional,

para-professional and non-professional among the library human resources. Table 4.21 shows

the nature of human resources in the university libraries.

Table 4.22-Nature of human resources

Nature of HR Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

Professional 71 103 96 60 24 06 360

Staff

Para prof.staff 27 15 24 09 03 01 79

Non-prof 108 190 307 80 19 11 715

Lib+autom staff 16 10 09 07 00 00 42

Total 222 318 436 156 46 18 1196

Note: Lib+autom staff = staff reserved for automation and digitization

Table 4.22 shows that among 1196 total workforce in the university libraries, 715(60%)

are non-professional and 360(30%) are professional.

A few 79(6.6%) are para-professional and 42(3.5%) out of 1196 are reserved for library

automation in the university libraries.

Table 4.21 shows that there are 222(19%) out of a total of 1196 workforce in public

 

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sector university libraries of Islamabad,

318(27%) out of 1196 in Punjab,

436(36%) out of 1196 in Sindh,

156(13%) in KPK,

46(04%) in Balochistan and

18(1.5%) are in AJK&NA.

Training attended by human resources

Training plays a dynamic role in the promotion of modern library culture in the country.

Periodic training is the key to update the library professionals in emerging library trends.

Table 4.23 contains information about the number of trainings received by the library

professionals in emerging library technologies.

Table 4.23 Training attended by library staff

________________________________________________________________________

Training received Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

No. of training 00(00%) 01(05%) 02(17%) 00(00%) 03(60%) 00(00%) 06(10%)

Attended

<=5 02(18%) 07(39%) 05(42%) 06(46%) 02(40%) 01(50%) 23(38%)

6-10 04(37%) 03(17%) 03(25%) 04(31%) 00(00%) 01(50%) 15(25%)

10+ 05(45%) 07(39%) 02(17%) 03(23%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 17(27%)

Total 11 18 12 13 05 02 61

Table 4.23 shows that 06(10%) out of 61 university librarians reported that they have not

received any training in modern library trends. Majority 23(38%) out of 61 university

librarians reported that they have attended less than or equal to five training on modern

library trends. Some 15(25%) out of 61 university librarians responded that they have

received training ranging from 6-10. 17(28%) out of 61 librarians claimed that they have

attended more than 10 library training programs on emerging library technologies.

 

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Impact of training on human resources

The University librarians were asked to comment on the impact of training on the

performance of the library professionals. It is observed from Table 4.23 that 55(90%) out

of 61 university librarians were of the opinion that these trainings on modern library

trends have positive impact on the smooth performance of library professionals.

Table 4.24 Impact of training on human resources

Impact of training Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total on HR

+ impact 11(100%) 17(85%) 10(83%) 13(100%) 02(40%) 02(100%) 55(90%) -Impact 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) Uncertain 00(00%) 01(05%) 02(17%) 00(00%) 03(60%) 00(00%) 06(10%)

Total 11 18 12 13 05 02 61

It is seen from Table 4.24 that all university librarians of Islamabad, KPK, Balochistan

and AJK&NA were of the opinion that trainings on modern library technologies have

positive impact on the smooth operation of university libraries and library professionals.

Only 06(10%) out of 61 university librarians were uncertain about the issue.

Additional qualification required for the incharge of automation section of the

university library

When asked about the additional qualification required for the head of automation section

of the university libraries, the views of the respondents have been recorded in Table 4.25.

Table 4.25-Extra skill required for incharge of automation section

Additional qualification Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

MLIS+MCS/MIT 08(73%) 08(44%) 02(17%) 02(15%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 20

MLIS+DIT/DCS 02(18%) 01(05%) 02(17%) 08(61%) 05(100%) 01(50%) 19

MLIS+Training in 01(9%) 09(51%) 08(66%) 03(23%) 00(00%) 01(50%) 22

IT

Total 11 18 12 13 05 02 61

Note: MCS= Master of Computer Science DCS= Diploma of Computer Science

 

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MIT= Master of Information Technology DIT= Diploma of Information Technology

Table 4.25 shows that 22(36%) out of 61 university librarians reported that head of

automation section of the university libraries must have some expertise in computer and

information technology along with Masters’ degree in Library and Information Science.

20(33%) out of 61 respondents expressed their opinion that the incharge of automation

section must have Masters’ degree in Computer Science (MCS) or Information

Technology(IT) along with Masters’ degree in Library Science.

Table 4.25 elucidates that 19(31%) out of 61 librarians reported that they must possess

Diploma in IT or Computer Science along with Masters’ degree in Library Science.

Table 4.25 therefore shows that the incharge of automation section must have expertise in

other disciplines such as MIT, MCS, DCS and DIT etc along with Masters’ degree in

Library and Information Science.

Financial resources

Finance is a major issue for the promotion of Modern library culture in the public sector

university libraries of Pakistan. It is the backbone of any organization. Without proper

allocation of budget, these libraries cannot achieve the required objectives of a university.

University library budget from 2005-2010

A financial resource is one of the most important resources in the overall infrastructure of

a university library. The respondents were asked to provide university library budget for

five financial years i.e. 2005-2010. Table 4.26 contains data about five financial years

from 2005-2010.

Table 4.26- University library budget from 2005-2010

Budget in million

rupees (m) Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

Per annum

Below 5m 05(45%) 14(78%) 09(75%) 10(77%) 04(80%) 02(100%) 44(72%)

 

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5m-10m 03(28%) 01(05%) 02(17%) 02(15%) 01(20%) 00(00%) 09(15%)

11m-15m 02(18%) 02(06%) 01(8%) 01(8%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 06(10%)

16m-20m 01(9%) 01(11%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 02(3%)

20m+ 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00

Total 11 18 12 13 05 02 61

Note: as of 17/12/2011: One Pound Sterling is equivalent to Rs 139.15, One US Dollar is equivalent to Rs 89.61

and One Euro is equivalent to Rs117

It is clear from Table 4.26 that a majority 44(72%) out of 61 university libraries have an

average annual budget of less than Rs. five million. 09(15%) out of 61 university libraries

have annual budget ranging from Rs 5m-10m.

06(10%) out of 61university libraries have library budget ranging from Rs 11m-15m. It is

also observed from Table 4.26 that only two university libraries have Rs 16m-20 m

average annual budget.

It is seen from Table 4.26 that 05(45%) out of 11 university libraries of Islamabad,

14(78%) out of 18 university libraries in Punjab,

09(75%) out of 61 from Sindh,

10(77%) out of 13 in KPK,

04(80%) in Balochistan and

02(100%) in AJK and NA have less than Rs 5 million annual budget.

Table 4.26 shows that, only two university libraries namely COMSAT Institute of IT

Islamabad and University of Engineering and Technology Lahore have an annual average

budget ranging from Rs 16m-20m.

This Table also reflects that there is not a single university library who gets more than Rs

20 million university library budget.

Library budget for automation sections of the university libraries

The university librarians were asked whether they have a separate budget for automation

section of their respective libraries or not? The data collected in this connection is shown

 

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in Table 4.26. A majority of 57(93%) out of 61 libraries reported that there is no special

allocation of budget for automation section.

Table 4.27- Library budget for automation sections of university libraries under study

Budget Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

No separate budget 09(82%) 16(89%) 12(100%) 13(100%) 05(100%) 02(100%) 57(93%)

Below Rs 1 Million 01(09%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 01(2%)

Rs 1 Million + 01(09%) 02(11%) 00(00% 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 03(5%)

Total 11 18 12 13 05 02 61

Table 4.27 shows that only one public sector university library namely International

Islamic University Islamabad has been allocated Rs one million budget per year

separately for automation of library functions.

Only three public sector universities namely (a) COMSAT Institute of Information

Technology,(b) Pir Mehar Ali Shah (PMAS) University of Arid Agriculture Rawalpindi

and (c) University of Engineering and Technology Lahore each have more than Rs one

million annual budget for the implementation of emerging library technologies in their

respective libraries.

Satisfaction about allocation for automation and digitization budget.

The librarians were asked to express their opinion regarding the matter “whether they are

satisfied with the budget allocation for the automation of their university libraries or not?”

Majority 57(93%) out of 61 respondents reported that since they had no separate

allocation of budget for automation section, they mentioned that there is a need for

separate budget for this purpose. Table 4.28 contains the information about the

satisfaction of automation budget.

Table 4.28 elucidates that only 04(7%) out of 61 university librarians are satisfied with

allocation of budget for the automation of their university libraries.

 

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Table 4.28- Views of librarians about satisfaction of library automation budget

Satisfaction about Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

Auto digit budget

Yes 02(22%) 02(11%) 00(00% 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 04(07%)

No 09(88%) 16(89%) 12(100%) 13(100%) 05(100%) 02(100%) 57(93%)

Total 11 18 12 13 05 02 61

Opinion about allocation of library budget for automation and digitization

The university librarians were given an option to suggest allocation of budget for

automation sections of their respective libraries. The respondents were given six options

to opt for one of them. The respondents’ opinion in this regard have been reproduced in

Table 4.29.

Table 4.29-Opinion about allocation of library budget for automation and digitization

Opinion Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

Below 10% 00(00%) 01(5%) 02(17%) 01(8%) (00%) 00(00%) 04(7%)

of the total library budget

10-20% 04(36%) 05(28%) 02(17%) 05(38%) 02(40%) 00(00%) 18(29%)

21-30% 05(45%) 08(45%) 08(64%) 06(46%) 03(60%) 00(00%) 30(49%)

31-40% 00(00%) 01(05%) 00(00%) 01(8%) 00(00%) 01(50%) 03(5%)

40%+ 00(00%) 01(05%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 01(50%) 02(3%)

Satisfied, have no 02(18%) 02(11%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 04(7%)

Suggestion

__________________________________________________________________________________

Total 11 18 12 13 05 02 61

Table 4.29 shows that a majority of 30(50%) out of 61 university librarians have opted for

21 to 30 percent of total library budget for the automation purposes of their university

 

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libraries.

18(30%) out of 61 university librarians opted for 10-20% of total library budget for

library automation.

A few 04(7%) out of 61 university librarians were of the opinion that there is no need of

more budget for the automation and digitization of their respective university libraries and

that they were satisfied.

Table 4.29 reveals that 01(5%) out of 18 university libraries in Punjab have opted for

below 10% for the automation budget,

02(17%) out of 18 in Sindh,

01(08%) out of 13 university libraries in KPK

Table 4.29 shows that 05(45%) out of 11university libraries in Islamabad have opted for

21-30% of total library budget,

08(45%) out of 18 in Punjab,

08(64%) out of 12 in Sindh,

06(46%) out of 13 in KPK and

03(60%) out of 05 in Balochistan

It is concluded from the Table 4.29 that the majority of the librarians have opted for 21 to

30 percent of the total library budget for the modernization of public sector university

libraries of the country.

Technology- based resources

In present era of emerging library technologies, technology-based resources are the back

bone of a modern university library. Technology based library resources include

computers, servers, scanners, barcode readers, printers , digital cameras, Radio Frequency

Systems and Un-Interrupted Power Supply/ Generators. Table 4.30 gives information

about technology-based resources in the university libraries of the country.

 

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Table 4.30- Technology- based resources/hardware

Hardware Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

Computers

1-15 07(64%) 08(44%) 06(50%) 08(62%) 04(80%) 02(100%) 35

16-50 02(18%) 05(28%) 06(50%) 05(38%) 01(20%) 00(00%) 19

50+ 02(18%) 05(28%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 07

Servers

No server 07(64%) 13(72%) 10(83%) 10(77%) 05(100%) 01(50%) 46

1-3 04(36%) 05(28%) 02(17%) 03(23%) 00(00%) 01(50%) 15

3+ 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00

Printers

No printer 01(09%) 03(17%) 01(08%) 01(8%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 06

1-3 08(72%) 13(83%) 07(54%) 10(77%) 05(100%) 02(100%) 45

3+ 01(09%) 00(00%) 04(33%) 02(15%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 07

Scanners

No scanner 04(36%) 13(72%) 06(50%) 05(38%) 03(60%) 01(50%) 32

1-3 06(55%) 03(17%) 06(50%) 08(62%) 02(40%) 01(50%) 26

3+ 01(09%) 02(11%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 03

Bar Code Reader

Yes 02(18%) 09(50%) 07(58%) 04(31%) 00(00%) 01(50%) 23

No 09(82%) 09(50%) 05(42%) 09(69%) 05(100%) 01(50%) 38

Digital Camera

No digital 07(64%) 13(72%) 09(75%) 08(62%) 05(100%) 02(100%) 44

Camera

1-3 04(36%) 03(17%) 03(25%) 05(38%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 15

3+ 00(00%) 02(11%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 02

UPS/Generator

Yes 05(45%) 16(89%) 09(75%) 03(23%) 01(20%) 00(00%) 34

No 06(55%) 02(11%) 03(25%) 10(77%) 04(80%) 02(100%) 27

RF Security System

Yes 02(18%) 03(17%) 01(08%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 06

No 09(82%) 15(83%) 11(92%) 13(100%) 05(100%) 02(100%) 55

Table 4.30 shows that 35(57%) out of 61 university libraries have computers ranging

from 1 to 15,

 

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19(31%) out of 61 university libraries have 16-50 computers in their libraries and

07(11%) out of 61 university libraries have more than 50 computers.

07(64%) out of 11 university libraries in Islamabad have1-15 computers in their

university libraries,

08(44%) out of 18 in Punjab,

06(50%) out of 12 in Sindh,

08(62%) out of 13 in KPK,

04(80%) out of 05 in Balochistan and

02(100%) in AJK&NA.

Table 4.30 shows that majority 46(75%) out of 61 university libraries have no servers in

the libraries. The library computer network is usually controlled from Information

Technology/ Computer Science Department of the concerned university.

As per Table 4.30, majority 45 (74%) out of 61 of the university libraries under study

have 1 to 3 printers in their libraries,

A few 07(11%) out of 61 have more than 3 printers in their respective libraries.

Some 06(10%) of them reported that they have no printer in the premises of their

libraries. It is concluded that most of the university libraries have less than or equal to 3

printers for their routine work.

32(52%) out of 61 university libraries in the country have no scanner,

26(43%) out of 61 university libraries have 1 to 3 scanners and only 03 university

libraries have more than 3 scanners for the automation and digitization purposes of the

library materials.

Table 4.30 shows that majority 38(63%) out of 61 university libraries have no bar code

readers, while the rest 23(37%) out of 61 have bar code readers for the automation of

university libraries.

When asked about the presence of digital camera in their university libraries, the

librarians reported that 44(72%) out of 61 university libraries have no digital cameras,

15(25%) out of the total contain digital cameras from 1 to 3. Only 02 university libraries

claimed more than 3 digital cameras for the digitization of library documents.

 

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Table 4.30 shows that 34 (56%) out of 61 university libraries have UPS/Generators to

cope with the power failure problems, while the remaining 27 (44%) out of 61 have no

such facility.

The respondents reported that 55(90%) out of 61 universities have no Radio Frequency

Systems (RF) for the implementation of modern library technologies in their respective

libraries. The rest 06(10%) out of 61university libraries claimed Radio Frequency System

in the premises of their libraries.

4.1.1.4 Library software used for the operation of hardware

In order to provide up-to-date information to their users, appropriate modern library

facilities are the need of the hour. For the effective use of hardware, standard software is

also very important. The software plays the role of gateway between technology and end

user. Table 4.31 gives the availability of library software in university libraries.

Table 4.31- Library software used for the operation of Hardware

Software in use Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

Operating System

XP 11(100%) 18(100%) 12(100%) 13(100%) 05(100%) 02(100%) 61

Others -------- -------- -------- --------- ----------- -------- 00

Library Management

Software

LIMS 04(36%) 12(67%) 04(50%) 02(22%) 01(50%) 00(00%) 23(48%)

LAMP 02(18%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 01(09%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 03(6%)

WINISIS 03(27%) 01(00%) 00(00%) 03(27%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 07(15%)

KOHA 01(09%) 01(06%) 04(50%) 03(27%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 09(19%)

Any Other 01(09%) 03(22%) 00(00%) 00 (00%) 01(50%) 01(50%) 06(12%)

Anti Virus Software

Yes 11(100%) 18(100%) 12(100%) 13(100%) 05(100%) 02(100%) 61

No ------ --------- ------- -------- ----- ------ ---

Anti Plagiarism

Software

Yes 02(18%) 10(56%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 12 (20%)

No 09(82%) 08(44%) 12(100%) 13(100%) 05(100%) 02(100%) 49(80%)

 

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It is fairly evident from Table 4.31 that almost all the university libraries of the country

have installed Windows XP as operating system in their computers.

Table 4.31also shows that 23(48%) out of 48 automated university libraries are using

Library and Information Management System (LIMS) for the operation of library

functions, 09(19%) out of 48 automated university libraries are using Koha as integrated

library software,

07(15%) out of 48 are using WINISIS (CDS/ISIS for Windows) for automation of library

procedures,

03(06%) out of 48 have Library Automation and Management Program (LAMP) and

06 (13%) are using different Integrated Library Softwares like Academic Management

System (AMS) used by Institute of Space Technology Islamabad, Library Manager (LM)

by Pakistan Institute of Engineering & Applied Sciences (PIEAS), Islamabad, UET-

Libas by University of Engineering and Technology Taxila, Alice for Windows by

National College of Arts, Lahore, Virtua by Fatima Jinnah Woman University

Rawalpindi and Hazara University Mansehra Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

All public sector university libraries have anti-virus software installed in their computer

terminals.

Majority 49(80%) out of 61 university libraries have no anti-plagiarism software for

checking plagiarism of research papers and dissertations. Only 12 university libraries

have such facility.

Table 4.31 shows that majority of the university libraries are using LIMS as integrated

library software.

4.1.1.5 Database of library holdings

Library holdings include books, back volumes of journals, magazines, theses and

dissertations, manuscripts, technical reports, newspapers and non-book materials. The

automation of library holdings is highly important for the modernization of university

libraries. University Librarians were asked to report about the database developed for

library holdings of their respective libraries. The data obtained is seen in Table 4.32

 

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Table 4.32- Database of library holdings

Data base Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

Data base of

Lib.holdings

Yes 11(100%) 17(94%) 08(67%) 09(69%) 02(40%) 01(50%) 48(79%)

No 00(00%) 01(06%) 04(33%) 04(31%) 03(60%) 01(50%) 13(21%)

% of of library holdings that have been

Automated

Below 50% 00(00%) 05(29%) 03(38%) 05(56%) 01(50%) 01(100%) 15(31%)

51-80 % 01(09%) 07(47%) 03(38%) 02(22%) 01(50%) 00(00%) 14(30%)

81-100% 10(91%) 05(29%) 02(25%) 02(22%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 19(39%)

Table 4.32 shows that majority 48(79%) out of 61 have developed database of their

library holdings.

Majority 19(40%) out of 48 automated university libraries have completed more than

80% of their library automation process and have developed databases of their library

holdings.

15(31%) out of 48 automated libraries are in the process of automation and have fed

about 51-80% of their library collection into their computers.

Some 14(29%) out of 48 automated university libraries have entered below 50% of their

documents into their computer terminals.

Table 4.32 elucidates that majority of the university libraries have completed or are in the

process of completion of their databases in their respective libraries.

4.1.1.6 Websites of the university libraries

Library website is a specialized facility for the users. With the help of this tool, a user can

search his/her required document anywhere and without time restrictions.

In order to know the exact situation, the respondent were given a query to report whether

their university libraries have a separate websites or uploaded in the main home pages as

hyper links. Table 4.33 shows the status of library website or a link in the university web

page.

 

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Table 4.33 Websites of university libraries

_____________________________________________________________________

Websites of University Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

Library

Library own website 01(09%) 02(11%) 02(17%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 00(00%) 05

A link within

University homepage 10(91%) 16(89%) 10(83%) 13(100%) 05(100%) 02(100%) 56

Total 11 18 12 13 05 02 61

Table 4.33 shows that a majority 56(92%) out of 61 university libraries have no separate

library websites. The libraries of these universities are uploaded in the main home pages

as hyper links. Only five university libraries namely (a) COMSAT Institute of

Information Technology Islamabad, (b) University of Engineering and Technology

Lahore,(c) Punjab University Lahore,(d) Nadirshaw Edulji Dinshaw (NED), University of

Engineering and Technology Karachi and (e) University of Karachi have their own

separate websites.

These websites contain general information related to the libraries, rules and regulations,

staff details, services and resources and Online Public Access Catalogue.

4.1.1.5 Views about physical resources in comparison with a modern university

library

Physical resources play a pivotal role in the use of the university libraries. These

resources include furniture/ seating arrangement, lighting/ventilation, reading area, air

conditioning system, library safety measures and research cubicles. An effort was made to

enquire from the respondents whether the university libraries in the country can compete

with the modern university libraries or not? For this purpose the librarians were given a

number of queries to rate the situation as per current position of their respective libraries.

The queries in Table 4.34 are rated in 5 point scale (very good, good, uncertain, poor,

very poor). The average Mean (X), Standard Deviation (S.D) and Co-efficient of

Variation (C.V) have been calculated. These tools are used to examine the concentration

and dispersion of respondents’ opinion. The least value of SD and CV shows the

consistency of librarians’ opinion, while maximum values of A.M, SD and C.V shows the

 

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variability of opinions.

Librarians were asked particular queries to compare the physical facilities available in

their own university library with a modern university library and rank their university

libraries in the given point scale against each query.

Table 4.34 Views about physical resources in comparison with a modern university

library

S.No Description of Query Mean(X) S.D C.V

1- Furniture/Seating Arrangement 2 0.63 31.53

2- Lightning/ Ventilation 1 0.50 50.00

3- Reading Area 2 0.80 40.00

4- Research Cubicles/Cabins 3 1.3 43.30

5- Air Conditioning 2 0.78 39.00

6- Library Building (Safety aspects) 3 1.18 39.33

7- Printing Facilities/ Soft copy Facility 2 1.05 52.5

8- Photocopying Facilities 2 0.51 25.5

Note: A-Mean (X), Standard Deviation (SD), Coefficient of Variation (CV)

1-Strongly Agree, 2- Agree, 3-Uncertain, 4-Disagree, 5-Strongly Disagree

Table 4.34 shows that respondents of the university libraries agreed (x=2) with the statement

that “furniture/ seating arrangement of these university libraries are levelled with the

furniture/ seating arrangement of a modern university library”.

Librarians strongly agreed (x=1) with the statement that “lighting/ ventilation of university

libraries is upto the standard of a modern university library”.

Librarians have been asked to comment on the query “comparison of reading areas of P S U

libraries in the country with the modern university libraries”, the respondents agreed (x=2)

that space reserved for reading in these university libraries is adequate as per international

standards.

Librarians were uncertain (x=3) about the research cubicles/cabins reserved for research

scholars in the public sector university libraries. The librarians were also uncertain (x=3)

about the safety of their university library buildings by comparing it with modern university

 

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libraries.

Librarians agreed (x=2) with the statement that these university libraries have enough

facilities of printing/ soft copy facility in comparison with a modern university library. They

also agreed (x=2) that university libraries have photocopying facilities while comparing them

with modern university libraries.

Table 4.34 shows that lightning/ventilation system of the university libraries in the public

sector is up to the international standards. The computed Mean , SD and CV confirm that

university libraries have good seating arrangements, proper ventilation /lighting system,

reading areas for readers, need based soft copy /printing facilities and photocopying facilities

in their premises. However, situation regarding research cubicles/cabins and building safety

is not up to the mark.

4.1.2 Impact of digital technology on library services and resources in the public sector

universities of Pakistan

Technology has affected all walks of life. Emerging technologies has had a considerable

impact on university library services and various resources and has successfully changed the

traditional library into a modern library. In order to determine the impact of digital

technology on university library and information services and resources, university librarians

were asked various questions to obtain information about the issue. The queries in the most of

the questions in this section were rated in 5 point scale (strongly agree, agree, uncertain,

disagree and strongly disagree). The average Mean (X), Standard Deviation and Coefficient

of Variation have been calculated. These tools are used to examine the concentration and

dispersion of respondents’ opinion. The least value of Standard Deviation and Coefficient of

Variation show the consistency of librarians’ opinion while maximum values of A.M, SD and

C.V shows the variability of opinions.

4.1.2.1 Technology based services are better than manual services?

Various questions have been asked from the university librarians to discover whether

technology based services are better than manual services? If yes, then what are the features

that distinguish technology based services from manual services. Table 4.35 presents the

librarians’ views in this regard.

 

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Table 4.35 Technology based services are better than manual services

Comparison Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

Agree 11(100%) 17(94%) 08(67%) 09(69%) 02(40%) 01(50%) 48(79%)

Disagree ---------- ---------- --------- --------- -------- --------- 00

No such facility 00(00%) 01(06%) 04(33%) 04(31%) 03(60%) 01(50%) 13(21%)

Total 11 18 12 13 05 02 61

Table 4.35 shows that majority 48(79%) out of 61 university libraries under study agreed that

technology-based library services are better than manual services. Some 13(21%) university

libraries reported that they have no such facilities in their university libraries.

Table 4.35 shows that all respondents in Islamabad agreed with the query “technology-based

services are better than manual services”.

Majority 17(94%) out of 18 university librarians in Punjab,

08(67%) out of 12 in Sindh and

09(69%) out of 13 in KPK agreed that technology-based services are better than manual

services.

It is observed from the above Table that a majority of the university librarians have reported

that technology-based library services are better than manual services.

If yes, then why?

Table 4.36 Why technology-based services are better than manual services

Statement Mean S.D C.V

1- They are accurate 2 0.41 20.50

2- They are consistent 1 0.50 25.00

3- They can be provided with lesser time 2 0.87 43.22

4- They can occupy lesser space 1 0.53 26.50

5- They can be provided round the clock 2 0.45 21.11

6- Can be tailor made for specific needs 2 0.40 20.23

Note: M-Mean, S.D- Standard Deviation, C.V- Coefficient of Variation

1-Strongly Agree, 2- Agree, 3-Uncertain, 4-Disagree, 5-Strongly Disagree

Librarians were asked specific questions to find out as to what are those features that

distinguish technology based services from the manual services. The respondents agreed that

technology based information services are consistent (X=1 with S.D=0.50). They can occupy

 

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lesser space (X=1, SD=0.53). Technology based services are accurate; can be provided with

lesser time, can be provided round the clock and can be tailor-made for specific purposes

(X=2, SD=0.41, 0.45, 0.87).

The statements, “technology based information services are accurate” produced the most

positive response (C.V=20.50) among all the above statements.

4.1.2.2 Technology- based technical services have a positive impact on library services

and resources?

The respondents were asked to report whether technology based technical services have a

positive impact on library services and resources or not? For this purpose, the librarians were

given various library services. The comments have been rated in a scale: (Strongly Agree to

Strongly Disagree)

Table 4.37 Impact of technology based technical services on university libraries

Description Mean S.D C.V

1- Acquisition work 2 0.60 30.00

2- Cataloguing of documents 1 0.36 18.00

3- OPAC 2 0.76 38.00

4- Use of e-DDC 2 0.70 35.00

5- Digitization of documents 2 0.52 26.00

6- Circulation Control 1 0.47 23.50

7- Information retrieval 1 0.35 17.33

8- Stock verification 2 0.54 27.07

9- Accounting and management 2 0.60 30.00

10- Electronic theft detection system 1 0.50 30.00

Note: M-Mean, S.D- Standard Deviation, C.V- Coefficient of Variation

1-Strongly Agree, 2- Agree, 3-Uncertain, 4-Disagree, 5-Strongly Disagree

Table 4.37 shows that university librarians strongly agreed with the statement that “emerging

library technology has positive impact on cataloguing of documents and information

retrieval” (X=1; SD=0.35, 0.36). Table 4.37 reveals that library technology has a positive

impact on circulation control of the university libraries (X=1; SD=0.47). It is also seen from

the same table that technology based technical services have positive impact on electronic

theft detection system (X=1; SD=0.60).

Table 4.37 reveals that librarians agreed with the statement that technology has positive

 

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impact on acquisition work of the university libraries, accounting and management work

(X=2; SD=0.60). This table also shows that emerging technologies have positive impact on

stock verification (X=2; SD=0.54). The impact of technology on use of Electronic Dewey

Decimal Classification(E-DDC) and Online Public Access Catalogue(OPAC) has also been

recorded as positive (X=2; SD=0.70,0.76).

The Co-efficient of Variation (CV) for statement No.07 of the above Table is least (17.33),

most of the librarians have answered to this statement that “technology has a positive impact

on information retrieval”. This reflects the consistency among the responses of the librarians.

Statement No.2 of the same Table gives the (CV=18.00 per cent) which is the next least co-

efficient of variation and shows consistency among the responses of the respondents. There

are diverse opinions about the use of OPAC (CV=42 .67 per cent).

It is concluded that technology based library services have a positive impact on cataloguing

of documents and information retrieval.

4.1.2.3 Attitude of university librarians towards the application of Digital Technology

(DT) in the PSU libraries of Pakistan

The attitude of librarians towards the application of digital technology in university library

services and resources is an important factor because librarians are the people who introduce

and provide new services and resources to the users. The librarians have the responsibility to

fulfil the needs and demands of their clientele. Librarians with positive attitude towards the

application of digital technology in university libraries can help the libraries to introduce

modern information sources and services. It is highly relevant to assess the attitude of

librarians towards the application of digital technology in libraries. Librarians were asked to

indicate their attitude and responses towards this matter.

Table 4.38 elucidates the attitude of university librarians towards the application of digital

technology in the university libraries.

Table 4.38- Attitude of librarians towards the application of emerging library technology

Description Mean S.D C.V

1- DT are to improve the quality of library services 2 0.89 44.85

2- DT applications improve the efficiency of Library 2 0.40 20.10

 

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3- DT enhances the knowledge and expertise 2 0.66 33.33

4- DT reduces the work load of the library

Professional 4 0.50 12.54

5- DT increases the regular budgeting 2 1.08 53.90

6- DT takes over the traditional way of information

handling in the library 3 0.54 26.98

______________________________________________________________________________________

Note: M-Mean, S.D- Standard Deviation, C.V- Coefficient of Variation

1-Strongly Agree, 2- Agree, 3-Uncertain, 4-Disagree, 5-Strongly Disagree

Table 4.38 shows that librarians have positive attitude and agreed with the statement: digital

technology application improves the efficiency of the library(X=2; SD=0.40). It is also seen

that the emergence of digital technologies improve the knowledge and expertise of the library

professionals (X=2; SD=0.50). The above Table reflects that university librarians agreed that

digital technology applications improves the quality of library services (X=2; SD=0.89). The

librarians also agreed with the statement that: digital technology increases the regular

budgeting of the university libraries (X=2; SD=1.08).

However, librarians are uncertain about whether digital technology takes over the traditional

way of information handling or not? (X=3; SD=0.54). It is also observed from the Table 4.38

that librarians disagreed with the statement: “DT reduces the workload of the library

professionals” (X=4; SD=0.54).

The calculated mean(X), Standard Deviation (SD) and Coefficient of Variation (CV) prove

that the “applications of digital technology improves the efficiency of the library and it does

not reduces the workload of the library professionals”.

4.1.2.4 Networking of public sector university libraries in Pakistan

It is an accepted fact that digital resources can be shared easily with the establishment of a

network system among the university libraries. In this connection, the librarians were asked

to express their opinion about the statement on the following scale.

 

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Table 4.39- Networking of public sector university libraries in Pakistan

Description Mean S.D C.V

1 By forming a network of university libraries in Pakistan, we will be able to enhance resource sharing 1 0.45 47.23

2 It will standardize library services 2 0.68 34.00 3 It will help in building standard collection 2 0.72 36.00 4 The efficiency of human resources will

be improved 2 0.51 25.50

5 Duplication of cataloguing entries will be avoided 1 0.40 20.00

Note: M-Mean, S.D- Standard Deviation, C.V- Coefficient of Variation

1-Strongly Agree, 2- Agree, 3-Uncertain, 4-Disagree, 5-Strongly Disagree

Table 4.39 shows that university librarians strongly agreed with the statement: “networking

of university libraries will help in avoiding of duplication of catalogue entries” (X=1;

SD=0.40). The librarians also strongly agreed with the statement: “by forming a network of

university libraries in Pakistan, we will be able to enhance resource-sharing” (X=1;

SD=0.45).

Therefore, the above Table shows that librarians agreed with the query: “the efficiency of

human resources will be improved” (X=2; SD=0.51). This Table elucidates that library

services will be standardized with university library networking (X=2; SD=0.68). The

librarians also agreed with the statement: “it will help in building standard collection” (X=2;

SD=0.72).

It is also observed that among all these statements: “university libraries will help in avoidance

of duplication of cataloguing entries” generated the most positive response (CV=20.00).

4.1.2.5 Librarians’ opinion in response to various queries

The university librarians were asked to express their opinion about the following statements

on the scale given below. They were given the queries: “whether the computers and other

equipment placed in the university libraries are always in good condition and whether library

staff is well trained in library technologies or not”? The librarians were also given two

queries about the users: “users prefer electronic resources or print version of that document

 

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and whether users require orientation to make the maximum use of technology based services

or not?” Table 4.40 has recorded the responses of university librarians in this connection.

Table 4.40 - Librarians’ opinion in response to various queries

Description Mean S.D C.V

1 Computers and other equipment are always in good condition 2 0.52 26.11

2 library staff is well trained in library technologies 2 0.67 33.50 3 users prefer to search electronic resources

to a manual search of printed versions 2 0.78 39.00

4 users require orientation to make the maximum use of technology based information services 2 0.40 20.23

Note: M-Mean, S.D- Standard Deviation, C.V- Coefficient of Variation

1-Strongly Agree, 2- Agree, 3-Uncertain, 4-Disagree, 5-Strongly Disagree

The calculated mean (X=2) obtained from the Table 4.40 reflects that librarians agreed with

all the four above mentioned queries. However, the calculated values of Standard Deviation

(SD) show the consistency among the opinion of the respondents. Among all four statements,

university librarians agreed more consistently with the statement: “users require orientation to

make the maximum use of technology based information services” (X=2; SD=0.40), followed

by statement: “computers and other equipment are always in good working condition” (X=2;

SD=0.52).

Table 4.40 also points out that librarians agreed with the statements: “library staff is well

trained in emerging library technologies” (X=2; SD=0.67) and “users prefer to search

electronic resources to a manual search of printed version” (X=2; SD= 0.78).

The calculated mean, Standard Deviation (SD) and Co-efficient of Variation (CV) show that

among all statements in Table 4.40, the statement: “users require orientation to make the

maximum use of technology based information services” has generated a more positive

response ((CV=20.23) followed by the statement: “computers and other equipment are

always in good condition” ( CV=26.11).

 

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4.1.2.6 Barriers to the application of emerging library technologies in the university

libraries

Farasat (2009)2 describes that the library automation in Pakistan is still in the stage of infancy

and offers many barriers to their implementation. Efforts are in the pipeline to eradicate the

hindrances in their way. However, an effort was made to know from the university librarians

about the barriers to the implementation of emerging technologies in their respective

university libraries. Table 4.41 contains the data about barriers to the adoption of modern

library technologies.

Table 4.41- Barriers to emerging library technologies

Barriers Mean S.D CV

Information technology infrastructure 2 0.57 28.5

Copyright 1 0.51 25.5

Security 2 0.62 31.00

Professional skills 2 0.75 37.33

Frequent electricity failures 1 0.78 78.00

The will/motivation is lacking 3 0.55 27.5

Internet provision by the institutions /organization

within which the Library is located: 2 0.77 38.51

Internet, Internet Speed etc 2 0.55 27.52

Financial constraints 1 0.31 31.11

Systematic planning for digitization 2 0.44 22.23

Note: M-Mean, S.D- Standard Deviation, C.V- Coefficient of Variation

1-Strongly Agree, 2- Agree, 3-Uncertain, 4-Disagree, 5-Strongly Disagree

It is seen from Table 4.41 that university librarians strongly agreed with the view that

finance is a major barrier in the way of adopting emerging library technologies(X=1;

 

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SD=0.31).They strongly agreed and pinpointed that copyright is another major issue in the

way of automation and digitization (X=1; SD= 0.51). It was also observed that respondents

strongly agreed with the query that frequent electricity failure is also a barrier (X=1;

SD=0.78).

Table 4.41 shows that university librarians agreed with the statement: “lack of systematic

planning for automation and digitization” is also a barrier to the implementation of emerging

technologies in university libraries of Pakistan (X=2; SD=0.44).

It can also be observed that university librarians also agreed with the statement: “Internet,

internet speed, information technology infrastructure, security and professional skills are the

main barriers to the implementation of modern library technologies” (X=2; SD= 0.51, 0.62,

0.75 and 0.77).

As seen from Table 4.41, it is clear that librarians were uncertain about the statement: “the

will/motivation of the university librarians towards modern library trends is lacking” (X=3;

SD= 0.55).

The calculated mean, SD and CV prove the view that among all the statements “ lack of

systematic planning for automation and digitization of university libraries” generated the

most positive response (CV=22.23).

4.1.2.7 Comparing advantages of digital/ electronic resources over conventional print

version of library resources

The librarians of public sector universities were asked to comment on the issue: “comparison

of advantages of digital/electronic resources over conventional print version of library

resources”. Five options were given to the respondents namely: strongly agree, agree,

uncertain, disagree and strongly disagree. They rated as per options and analysis has been

made on the basis of received responses. Table 4.42 shows the respondents’ opinion in this

regard.

 

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Table 4.42- Comparing advantages of digital/ electronic resources over conventional

print version of library resources

Description Mean S.D C.V

1- It is not necessary to retain journals’ bound volumes 3 0.87 43.54

Even after the library has all the back volumes in

digital/electronic form or has access to them from

a digital repository

2- we can save a lot storage space by having resources

like journals’ back volumes, dissertations, reports in

electronic form 1 0.54 27.11

3- It saves substantial amount of money being spent on

maintenance(binding, cleaning, etc) of books ,

bound volumes by having them in electronic/ digital form 4 0.63 31.23

4- It is easy & convenient to conduct a search on

electronic resources 1 0.34 17.12

5- Electronic resources are not very expensive compared to

their print version. 4 0.45 22.56

6- It is better to procure an electronic version of a

book/ journal if its price is equal to or not much higher

than the print version 3 0.77 38.34

7- In this networked environment, electronic resources

achieve the objectives of resource sharing in a far better

way than print versions 2 0.38 19.67

8- Electronic resources require expensive infrastructure to

disseminate information contained in them 1 0.29 14.50

9- Despite being user friendly, it requires certain

degree of computer knowledge to get the maximum

benefit of these electronic resources 2 0.65 32.56

10- Electronic resources can be updated easily and

immediately in case of online sources. 2 0.35 17.50

 

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11- Copyright is ignored/violated when using

electronic resources 2 0.39 19.44

12- As electronic devices are used to operate

electronic resources which are power dependent,

electricity failure act as a barrier. 1 0.55 27.32

______________________________________________________________________________________

Note: M-Mean, S.D- Standard Deviation, C.V- Coefficient of Variation

1-Strongly Agree, 2- Agree, 3-Uncertain, 4-Disagree, 5-Strongly Disagree

It was recorded that librarians strongly agreed with the statement: “electronic resources

require expensive infrastructure to disseminate information contained in them” (X=1; SD=

0.29). It is reported that librarians strongly agreed with the statement: “it is easy and

convenient to conduct a search on electronic resources” (X=1; SD=0.34). The respondents

also strongly agreed with the view that : “we can save a lot storage space by having resources

like journals’ back volumes, dissertations, reports in electronic form and as electronic devices

are used to operate electronic resources which are power dependent, electricity failure acts as

a barrier”( X=1; SD=0.54 & 0.55).

It has also been reported that librarians agreed with the statement: “electronic resources can

be updated easily and immediately in case of online sources” (X=2; SD=0.35). The

respondents agreed with the view that: copyright is ignored/violated when using electronic

resources (X=2; SD=0.39). The librarians agreed with the statement: “in this networked

environment, electronic resources achieve the objectives of resource sharing in a far better

way than print versions” (X=2; SD=0). The respondents also agreed that: “despite being user

friendly, it requires certain degree of computer knowledge to get the maximum benefit of

these electronic resources.”

However, the university librarians were uncertain about : “it is better to procure an electronic

version of a book/ journal if its price is equal to or not much higher than print version” and

“It is not necessary to retain journals bound volumes even after the library has all the back

volumes in digital/electronic form or has access to them from a digital repository” (X=2;

SD=0.77 & 0.87).

It has also been reported that respondents disagreed with the statements: “electronic resources

 

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are not very expensive as compared to their print version” and “it saves substantial amount of

money being spent on maintenance (binding, cleaning, etc) of books, bound volumes to by

having them in electronic/ digital form” (X=4; SD=0.45 , 0.63).

The calculated mean, Standard Deviation (SD) and Co-efficient of Variation (CV) prove the

opinion that among all the statements “electronic resources require expensive infrastructure

to disseminate information contained in them” (CV=14.50), and “electronic resources can be

updated easily and immediately in case of online sources.” (CV=17.50) generated the most

positive responses.

Librarians' reply to an open ended question

The professional librarians were given an open ended question “Any other information /experience that you want to share about the impact of digital technology on library services and

resources?” at the end of the questionnaire. They were asked to express their views in this regard. They replied about the impact of emerging technologies on university library services and resources in the following manner. A total of 47 out of 61 university librarians responded to this question. Out of these 47,12 (26%) pointed out that they have access to modern library facilities like access to electronic books and scholarly journals, databases, Online Public Access Catalogue and other electronic tools. They opined that modern library technologies have positive impact on house keeping routines of information centres. They also expressed their views that insufficient finance, regular power break down and lack of interest of higher authorities are the main obstacles in the way of library modernization. They stressed on the provision of teleconferencing and Radio Frequency Systems.

11(23.41%) out of 47 respondents commented that modern technological skills of the

postgraduate students should be improved. Faculty members should emphasise on Library

and Information Science (LIS) postgraduate students to learn as how to access e-resources

and how to manage e-records? This can be an integral part of the course on information

storage and retrieval taught to LIS Masters’ students. It was also proposed that university

libraries should increase the awareness campaigns concerning the availability of electronic

resources. The use of e-mail alert system, text messages and prizes for those who use a lot of

e-resources should be encouraged by the university library as methods of promotion. There is

a need for regular and continuous review of the curriculum so as to incorporate new and

emerging areas especially in the area of modern library trends. Recruitment of IT trained LIS

faculty is also suggested by the library professionals. There is a serious and dire need of IT

based teaching staff in the LIS schools to provide the necessary technology –based training

needed in the 21st century.

 

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It is observed from the interpretation of collected data that 08 (17%) out of 47 university

librarians demanded for a committee of library experts. They may determine the strategy for

the implementation of modern university library system. Their suggestions may be given due

attention for applying in the university libraries. Own publications including theses, research

journals and reports may be digitized and should be uploaded online for the general use.

06 (13%) out of 47 commented about HEC digital library. They suggested that the

bibliographical details of total collection especially theses and own journals placed at the

universities/ DAIs/ R and D organizations should be obtained by HEC digital library to avoid

duplication. The digitization of these materials should be carried out. Although this is a huge

project but once completed and implemented, it will achieve the goals like space, time, labour

and cost savings and avoiding duplication of resources. If that database was launched online,

it may provide round the clock availability to the users of all academic and other authorized

institutions. This effort will provide us the opportunity to sell our e-resources to other

organizations of the world and get a source of revenue for the country. This practice will also

give an opportunity to the researchers, faculty members and students to access the resources

of all university libraries. The concept of library without walls should be developed.

Copyright issues should be resolved with the fair use. The issue of security should be solved

with various security tools like firewall and encryption etc. Information literacy program of

HEC digital library should be made more effective. The librarians and end users should be

the targets of the program.

The respondents 02 (4.25%) out of 47 further commented that there is no digital library

policy in Pakistan. There is a dire need of a digital library policy in the country, which will

provide the library a chance to develop standard collection. The responses received from the

feedback of open ended question reveal that 04(8.5%) out of 47 responded librarians were of

the opinion that development and implementation of a uniform standard integrated library

software is the need of the day. They stressed that library standards used in university

libraries must be uniform. The librarians also urged that required modern technology be

provided to all university libraries of the country. The professionals be given periodic

trainings on these emerging library technologies.

Majority of the librarians working in the university libraries commented that the introduction

of emerging technologies in libraries will have positive impact on library and information

services and resources. They were also of the view that the online resources have solved

 

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many problems of researchers, students and faculty members in their required literature

search.

From the expression and suggestions of 04(8.5 %) librarians out of 47, it is clear that they are

unable to implement emerging technologies in their university libraries due to non

availability of a uniform standard library software, required latest hardware and skilled

library personnel. They also stressed on the importance of digital technology in the area of

library operations.

User’s Survey

4. 2 Users' response towards the application and impact of digital technology on

university libraries.

The following are the details of the statistical analysis and interpretation of the data collected

from the library users through the structured questionnaire. The questionnaire distributed

among the users was to obtain information about the status of library users, purpose and

frequency of library visits by the users, use of library and information services/tools , rating

of the quantity and quality of the traditional learning resources in university libraries, opinion

about skills and expertise to use technology based services and resources, views about the

need for a workshop/orientation program in technology based services and resources, purpose

of internet use in the library and views about significant change in speed of academic/

research work by using digital library technologies. Finally, to find out to what extent they

are satisfied with this technology based services and resources.

4.2.1 General Information

Users were asked to indicate their status, i.e. whether the user is undergraduate student,

research scholar or teacher. Table 4.41 indicates the status wise distribution of university

library users. The users’ community of the universities include under graduate students,

teachers, research scholars and others.

Table 4.43-status of university library users

Status Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

Undergraduate students/ 20 30 25 25 10 05 115

Postgraduate students

Research Scholars 18 30 20 20 10 03 101

Teachers 12 24 10 15 05 02 68

 

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Other 05 06 05 05 00 00 21

Total 55 90 60 65 25 10 305

Note: Undergraduate/postgraduate students=B.A/M.A Research Scholar=MPhil, PhD

Table 4.43 shows that 115(38%) out of 305 are undergraduate students, 101(33%) out 305 are

research scholars, 68(23%) are teachers and 21(07%) are other users. The other users include

non-teaching staff of the universities.

It is observed that from all universities, a good number of users who responded are either

undergraduate students or research scholars.

Purpose of library visits by the users

The purpose of the university library visits by the users was obtained through a question with

various options. The users were also given the opportunity to indicate any other purpose. The

options were study, research, issue/ return/renew of books, use of OPAC, search of CD-ROM

databases, internet, access to HEC Digital Library and any other purpose. Table 4.44 shows

the purpose of library visits by the users of the university libraries.

Table 4.44-Purpose of library visits by the users

Purpose Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

Study 25 48 51 57 21 08 210 Research 17 38 26 32 13 06 132 Borrow/return/renew of books 40 78 49 61 20 03 251 Use of OPAC 10 24 08 14 05 03 130 Search CD ROM 15 21 11 10 06 00 63 Internet 45 76 55 59 17 10 262 Access to HEC Digital Library 35 48 33 37 16 06 175 Any Other 18 09 11 13 07 00 58 ______________________________________________________________________________________

 

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In Table 4.44 a majority of 262 (86%) out of 305 users visit the library for using internet. A

large number 251(82%) out of 305 users visit the library for issue/return/renew of books. A

good number 210 (69%) out of 305 users use the library for study purposes.

About 175(57%) out of 305 visit the library to access HEC Digital Library. Some of the users

132 (43%) out of 305) visit the library for research purposes and 130 (43%) of the patrons

visit the library for using OPAC.

Frequency of library visits by the users

This gives an idea about the use of library made by the users as well as how important the

library is to them. The following table explains:

Table 4.45-Frequency of library visits by the users

Frequency Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

Daily 20 50 28 30 12 04 144

Alter native days 18 20 12 22 10 03 85

Once in three days 12 08 09 07 01 03 40

Once in a week 02 04 07 04 02 00 19

Once in a month 00 03 03 00 00 00 06

Rarely 03 05 01 02 00 00 11

Total 55 90 60 65 25 10 305

Table 4.45 reveals that majority of the users 144 (47%) out of 305 visit the library on a daily

basis. 85 (28%) out of 305 visit the library on alternate days. Some 40 (13%) of the users

visit once in three days. The rest of the users reported that they visit the library once in a

week (06%), once in a month (02%) and rarely (04%).

Average time spent by the users in the Library on a visit

The following table determines the average time spent by the users in the library on a visit.

 

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Table 4.45-Average time spent by the users in the Library on a visit

Time spent Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

Less than 30 minutes 20 35 23 20 08 03 109

Between 30 minutes

and Two Hours 29 45 27 38 11 06 156

Between 2 and 5 hours 03 06 05 03 04 00 21

More than 5 hours 03 04 05 04 02 01 19

______________________________________________________________________________________

Total 55 90 60 65 25 10 305

The users were asked to report that how much time they spend in the library on a visit. For

this purpose four options were given to the users to respond.

Table 4.45 shows that majority of the users 156(51%) out of 305 of the public sector

universities reported that they spend between 30 minutes and two hours in the library for

study, internet and other purposes.

About 109 (36%) out of 305 of users expressed that they spend less than 30 minutes on a

single visit to the university library. A few 21 (07%) out of 305 claimed that they spend

between 2 and 5 hours. A few 19(06%) out of 305 users spend more than 5 hours on a visit to

the library.

Thus a majority of the users spend between 30 minutes and two hours on a visit to a

university library.

4.2.2 Use of library and information services / resources/utilities/tools/devices received

used by the users

Users were asked whether they use any of the services/resources/utilities/tools/devices in

their university libraries. Table 4.45 shows the data related to the above services/resources.

 

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Table 4.46- Use of library services/resources/utilities/tools/devices

Utilities Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

Library services

Circulation 43 80 54 60 23 09 269

Reference 34 58 40 49 20 07 208

User education 40 79 49 43 16 08 235

Bulletin Board services 05 14 06 08 05 02 40

Photocopying 48 72 48 27 18 07 220

Printing 30 51 45 22 19 06 173

Any Other 15 12 09 08 11 02 57

Information services

Bibliographic services 36 34 24 31 16 07 148

Current Awareness services 23 22 12 10 09 02 78

Selective Dissemination of

Information (SDI) 16 14 09 12 08 00 59

Indexing/ abstracting services 19 24 13 13 11 03 83

Utilities/resources/devices

USB 50 67 39 48 21 07 232

DVD 25 34 27 11 13 04 114

VCD 20 33 08 07 08 00 76

Printer 30 51 45 22 19 06 173

Scanner 04 20 21 26 08 02 81

Smart card ---- --- ---- ---- ---- ---- 00

 

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Laptop 14 07 03 06 00 00 30

Telnet 00 00 00 00 00 00 00

Table 4.47 shows that a large number of users 269 (88%) out of 305 reported that they are

visiting the university libraries for circulation purposes i,e for issue/ return/renew of library

documents.

235(77%) out of 305 opined that they receive user education about the various services and

resources of the university libraries.

A good number of users 220 (72%) out of 305 responded that they receive the facility of

photocopying in their libraries.

208(68%) out of 305 users reported that they use reference services in the library.

Some 173(58%) out of 305 users claimed availability of printing facilities in their libraries.

148 (49%) out of 305 of users visit the library to use bibliographical services. 68(24%) of

them are utilizing Selective Dissemination of Information services (SDI), Current Awareness

Services (CAS) and indexing and abstracting services.

When asked about the devices they use in the library, the respondents (users) were of the

opinion that majority 232 (76%) out of 305 of users were using Universal Serial Bus (USB)

for access and retrieval of information. A good number of users 173 (58%) out of 305 were

using printers in the libraries. Some 81 (27%) out of 305 were using scanners for digitization

of documents in the libraries. A very small number 30(10%) out of 305 users were using

laptop in the premises of university libraries.

4.2.3 Rating the quantity and quality of the traditional learning resources in university

libraries

Users were asked certain queries about the rating of quantity and quality of learning

resources. The users were given a five point scale (very good, good, uncertain, poor, very

poor) to choose the closest one. Table 4.48 indicates the above mentioned rating. Statistical

tools were used for the analysis of the data in this Table.

 

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Table 4.48- Rating the quantity and quality of the traditional learning resources in university

libraries

Description Mean S.D C.V

Books 2 0.82 41.22

Reference Sources 2 0.65 32.50

Journals 2 1.30 65.12

Project Reports/Dissertation 3 1.24 41.33

Govt. Reports 4 1.03 25.75

Newspapers/Business dailies 1 0.56 56.00

Note: M-Mean, S.D- Standard Deviation, C.V- Coefficient of Variation

1-Strongly Agree, 2- Agree, 3-Uncertain, 4-Disagree, 5-Strongly Disagree

It is observed from Table 4.46 that users strongly agreed with the query “quality and quantity

of Newspaper/Business daily placed in the university libraries for general reading are up to

the satisfactory level of the users (X=1; SD=0.56). The users of the university libraries rated

the quality and quantity of reference sources of the university libraries as good (X=2;

SD=0.65). The users responded with the remarks that the quality and quantity of the books

placed for reading of the patrons inside the university libraries is good (X=2; SD=0.82). The

users rated the quality/quantity of journals as good (X=2; SD=1.30).

The users were uncertain about the usage of project reports/dissertations in their university

libraries (X=3; SD=1.24).

However, the users were not satisfied with the quality and quantity of government reports

placed in their university libraries.

From the calculated X, SD analysis and CV of Table 4.46 reveals that “quality and quantity

of the reference sources was rated good” has generated most positive response (CV= 32.50)

followed by “rating of books” (CV=41.22).

 

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4.2.4 Analyses of attitude of users towards the application and impact of modern

library trends on university library services and resources

This section elaborates on the attitude of users towards emerging library technologies.

Users’ opinions about skills and expertise to use technology based services and

resources

Users were asked whether the expertise and skills you have, are adequate for the utilization of

emerging library technologies or not? They were given the options of more adequate,

adequate and inadequate. The users were asked to opt for the level of expertise they have.

The following Table shows the users’ opinions in this regard.

Table 4.49- Users’ opinion about skills and expertise to use technology based services

and resources

Geographical zone More adequate Adequate Inadequate Total

Islamabad 15 (27%) 30(55%) 10(18%) 55

KPK 10(15%) 28(43%) 27(42%) 65

Balochistan 05(20%) 10(40%) 10(40%) 25

Sindh 10(17%) 30(50%) 20(33%) 60

Punjab 20(22%) 40(44%) 30(34%) 90

AJK & NA 02(20%) 04(40%) 04(40%) 10

Total 62(20%) 142(79%) 101(33%) 305

Chi-square test value=15.51

Chi-Square test was used to point out whether there is any dependency in the opinion of users

on the universities of specific geographical zone about the skills and expertise to use

technology based services and resources or not?. The calculated value of Chi-Square test was

found to be significant at 5 per cent level indicating that there exists dependency between the

variables.

A few 62 (20%) out of 305 recorded that they have more adequate approach towards the use

 

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of modern library services and resources.

A majority of 242 (79%) out of 305 library users indicated that their skills and expertise are

adequate for the use of technology based services and resources.

Some 101(33%) out of 305 have reported inadequacy about their skill and expertise in the use

of technology based services and resources.

Table 4.49 shows that a few 15(27%) out of 55 users in Islamabad reported that they have

more adequate skills and expertise about the use of technology based services and resources.

About half 30 (55%) out of 55 of the users in the capital city of Islamabad claimed adequate

approach towards the usage of modern library procedures.

In KPK, only 10(15%) out of 65 users have claimed more adequacy in skills and expertise for

the use of technology based services and resources in their respective university libraries.

28(43%) out of 65 users in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa reported that they have adequate skills for

the technology based services and resources. The rest of the users reported that they have

inadequate skills and expertise in this field.

In Balochistan, a few 5(20%) out of 25 reported that they have more adequate skill in this

area.

A good number 10 (40%) out of 25 of library users have claimed adequate skills for using

modern library technologies.

The rest of the users reported that they have inadequate skills for this modern library

practices.

A few library users 10 (17%) out of 60 in Sindh reported that they have more adequate skills

in this connection.

About half 30(50%) out of 60 of the library users in Sindh claimed adequate skills for the

usage of technology based services and resources.

20(33%) out of 60 reported inadequate skills for the usage of modern library technologies.

In Punjab, 20(22%) out of 90 more adequate approach towards the usage of emerging library

technologies,

40(44%) out of 90 reported adequate approach,

The rest of the users opined that they have inadequate skills for the use of modern library

procedures.

 

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The Library clientele at AJK and NA university libraries reported that 02(20%) have more

adequate skills, 04(40%) out of 10 have adequate skills and 04(40%) out of 10 have

inadequate skills about the usage of modern library procedures.

User's opinion about the need for a workshop/orientation program in technology- based

services and resources

To ascertain the need for workshop/orientation in technology based services and resources,

users had been asked as to whether they "agree", "disagree", or are "uncertain"? Table 4.50

shows the users’ opinion about the need for orientation/workshop.

Table 4.50 –Users’ opinion about training/orientation

Geographical Zone Agree Disagree Uncertain Total

Islamabad 50(91%) 05(9%) 00(00%) 55

KPK 58(89%) 04(06%) 03(05%) 65

Balochistan 21(84%) 02(08%) 02(08%) 25

Sindh 55(92%) 03(05%) 02(03%) 60

Punjab 83(92%) 05(6%) 02(2%) 90

AJK&NA 08(80%) 01(10%) 01(10%) 10

Total 267(89%) 19(07%) 9(04%) 305

Chi-Square value=15.51

Whether or not there is any dependency in the opinion of users on the university libraries of

specific geographical zone about the need for a workshop/ orientation program in technology

based services and resources? The calculated value of Chi-Square test was found to be

significant at 5 per cent level indicating that there exists dependency between the variables.

Table 4.48 reveals that 267 (89%) out of 305 library users agreed with the statement that they

need training programs on emerging library technologies. Only 19(07%) out of 305 library

users disagreed with the view that there is a need of trainings/ workshop on modern library

trends.

 

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A majority of library users in Islamabad, Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa , Balochistan

and Azad Jammu, Kashmir and Northern Areas have felt an intense need of

training/workshop programs for refining of their modern library skills.

Purpose of internet usage in the library

I.Luambano and Nawe (2004)3 discuss that with the help of internet, scholars in different

positions can share their ideas and views. It has reduced the distances and made the world a

global village.

Internet services under usage have been listed in the questionnaire as “study” , “research”,

“collection of general information”, “recreational”, “communication”, “accessing HEC

digital library” and “any other”. An option has also been placed in the question about “not

using internet". Internet usage is given in Table 4.51.

Table 4.51 -Purpose of internet use

Purpose of internet Islamabad Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan AJK&NA Total

Study 20(36%) 25(28%) 14(25%) 19(29%) 04(16%) 02(20%) 84(28%)

Research 20(36%) 35(39%) 27(45%) 31(47%) 11(44%) 05(50%) 129(42%)

Collection of general

Information 02((3.6%) 10(11%) 09(15%) 05(8%) 02(8%) 01(10%) 29(09%)

Recreational 03(5.4%) 04(4.4%) 02(3.3%) 04(7%) 02(8%) 01(10%) 16(5.5%)

Communication 04(7.2%) 04((4.4%) 03(5%) 03(5%) 02(8%) 00(00%) 16(5.5%)

Access of HEC

Digital library 05(08%) 12(13%) 03(5%) 03(5%) 03(12%) 01(10%) 27(8.8%)

Any others 01(02%) 00(0%) 02(3.3%) 00(0%) 01(4%) 00(0%) 04(1.3%)

Total 55(18%) 90(30%) 60(20%) 65(21%) 25(8%) 10(3%) 305

Chi- Square test value=8.26

Chi-Square test is used to point out whether or not there is any dependency in the opinion of

users on the universities of specific geographical zone about the purpose of internet usage in

 

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the university libraries? The calculated value of Chi-Square test was found to be significant at

5 per cent level indicating that there exists dependency between the variables.

It is observed from the analysis of the data that majority 129 (42%) out of 305 users are

using internet for research purposes in the university libraries.

A good number 84(28%) out of 305 users are using internet facility for study purposes in

their respective libraries.

27 (8.8%) out of 305 library clientele reported that they are using internet to access HEC

Digital Library.

29 (09%) out of 305 library users are using internet for browsing of general information.

It is also observed that majority of the university library users in Islamabad, Khyber

Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, Punjab, Balochistan and AJK&NA are using internet facilities for study

and research purposes.

4.2.5 Users’ opinion about significant change in speed of academic/ research work by

using digital library technology

Users were asked to indicate whether there is a significant change in the speed of

academic/research work by using digital library technologies by giving the options of "highly

significant", "significant", or "not significant". Table 4.50 indicates the distribution of users

according to the query mentioned above.

Table 4.52-Users’ opinion about significant change in speed of academic/ research work

Geographical Zone Highly significant Significant Not significant Total

Islamabad 40(73%) 15(27%) 00 55

KPK 53(82%) 12(18%) 00 65

Balochistan 19(76%) 06(24%) 00 25

Sindh 41(68%) 19(32%) 00 60

Punjab 78(87%) 12(13%) 00 90

AJK &NA 07(70%) 03(30%) 00 10

Total 238(78%) 67(23%) 00 305

 

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The Table 4.52 shows that majority 238(78%) out of 305 library users reported that a rapid

increase in the pace of research and academic work in universities has been noticed with the

emergence of latest technologies.

Some 67 (23%) out of 305 library users declared the increase in speed of academic or

research work as significant. Majority of the respondents from Islamabad, Punjab, Sindh,

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan and AJK and NA have declared the speed of

research/academic work as more significant with the application of modern library

technologies in the public sector universities of Pakistan.

4.2.6 Users’ feedback to an open ended query

The different views expressed by the users about the application and impact of modern

library technologies on library resources and services are grouped and processed. 160

comments were given by the users. 25 (15.62 %) out of 160 demanded for more PCs with

high internet speed connection in the premises of the library.

12(7.5%) out of 160 users demand a strong relationship between faculty members and

librarians, so that teachers may be able to inform the students about new arrivals of the

library.

36 (22.5%) out of 160 users need modern user- education program. This program should lay

emphasis on the proper use of the information centres, importance of reference sources, use

of e-resources, emerging library technologies and the relation of student and librarian

13(8%) out of 160 library readers request that the library users should be treated with respect

and they should be made to feel important.

18(11.25%) out of 160 users recommend that attitude of library staff towards them should

be friendly. There should be some attraction for the students to use a library. Some of

the users 16 (10%) out of 160 suggested that small in-depth interviews with users may be

conducted to know the real problems faced by them.

6 (4 %) users made a demand for the digitization of documents.

23 (14.34%) stated that they are satisfied with accessibility and importance of electronic

resources. 7(4.5%) out of 160 users demanded for more rapid updating of e-books and e-

journals repositories.

 

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Majority 156 (98%) out of 160 users commented that the digital technology has a positive

impact on library services and resources and emergence of modern library trends have helped

them in proper utilization of university libraries.

 

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References

                                                             

1   Bello, A.S. (2003). Library user education evaluation at the Ibadan Polytechnic.

Nigerian Library and Information Science Review 21(1):1-6. Retrieved

from: http://www.answers.com/topic/librarian#Technology_in_libraries Accessed on

20/11/2010

 

2   Shafiullah, Farasat and Stephen A. Robert (2010). Is ICT Infrastructure capable to

accommodate standardized library management systems? : Case studies of library

automation from public sector universities in Islamabad (Pakistan). Technology,

Policy and Innovation. 273-280

 

3   Luambano, I., & Nawe, J. (2004). Internet use by the students of the University of

Dar-us- Salaam. Library Hi Tech News. No. 10, 13-17.

 

130

CHAPTER FIVE

SUMMARY OF THE FINDINGS AND SUGGESTIONS

This chapter provides a summary of the major findings of the research study and

suggestions for improving the technology- based infrastructure in public sector

university libraries in Pakistan.

5.1 Summary of the major findings

Digital technology has a tremendous impact on library services and resources.

Application of emerging technologies on university libraries is an interesting

subject of library and information science research. The present investigation has

achieved its aim, in that it has given a summary of the impact and application of

digital technology in public sector university libraries. The major findings of the

study are the following:

5.1.1 General information

1. 45 percent Public Sector Universities (PSU) of the country have been established

after year 2000. It has also been noted that at the time of Independence of

Pakistan in 1947, there existed only two universities in the country, namely

University of the Punjab and University of Sindh.

2. Public sector university libraries of federal capital Islamabad (100%) have gone

far ahead in library modernization followed by the province of Punjab (95%) as

compared with the other provinces of the country.

69 percent university libraries in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and

67 percent in Sindh are automated or in the process of automation.

The situation regarding automation is not satisfactory in Balochistan.

60 percent university libraries are not automated in Balochistan.

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3. On personal visits to the digital section of the university libraries in the country, it

was found out that in 54% university libraries , 100 number of users use this

section on a daily basis,

While in 21% university libraries, 100 to 200 users use this section on a daily

basis and in 25% university libraries, more than 200 users visit this section per

day.

5.1.2 Library services

4. All the university libraries offer basic library services (circulation, reference, and

new arrivals’ lists) to their readers. 67 percent university libraries offer Selective

Dissemination of Information (SDI), Current Awareness Services (CAS) and

Newspapers’ Clipping Services.

5. Majority i.e 93 percent public sector university libraries in the country are using

Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) for the classification of library documents

and that the librarians of the public sector universities are satisfied with the

classification scheme they are using.

6. 92 percent university libraries are using Anglo American Cataloguing Rules-2

(AACR-2) Revised edition (2002) for the cataloguing of their library materials

and the university librarians are satisfied with AACR-2 Revised edition is being

used for the cataloguing of library collection.

7. 96 percent of the public sector university libraries of the country are providing

free internet facilities to their users: the detail are as under:

46 percent university libraries have less than 100 megabytes per second

(mbps) internet speed,

46 percent have equal to 100 mbps speed and

8 percent university libraries have more than 100 mbps internet speed.

With the advent of internet, the pace of research has also increased rapidly.

8. 61 percent public sector university libraries provide user education on modern

library trends to their users while 39% have no such program of educating the

users.

62 percent librarians reported that they provide user education in the

132

beginning of the academic year,

19 percent librarians claim that they provide this service in the beginning of

every semester and the same number of librarians responded that they

provide user education as per request.

All those who responded were of the opinion that user education

program has a positive impact on the use of library services and resources.

5.1.3 Library Resources

9. 56 percent public sector university libraries of the country have less than or equal

to 50000(fifty thousand) learning resources.

21 percent the university libraries have library collection ranging from 50001-

100000,

16 percent university libraries have library materials ranging from 100001-

200000 and only four (7%) university libraries have more than 200,000

learning resources in their library premises.

10. 75 percent public sector university libraries have purchased less than or equal to

50 research journals, while 25 percent university libraries reported that they are

subscribing to more than 50 research journals.

76 percent public sector university libraries are purchasing less than or equal to

10 daily newspapers for the general readings of their readers, while 24 percent

subscribe to more than 10 daily newspapers for their users.

79 percent university libraries reported that there are no manuscripts in their

libraries. 13 percent libraries reported less than or equal to 200 manuscripts

and only 5 university libraries reported having more than 200 manuscripts in

their collection.

11. All the public sector university libraries are availing the services of HEC National

Digital Library (which has 75,000 electronic contents. These contents include

peer-reviewed journals, databases, articles and e-books).

133

12. 56 percent public sector university libraries have human resources between 1-10

workforce, 28 percent university libraries have more than 20 staff members for

the operation of their library functions and 16 percent have human resources

ranging from 11-20.

There is a total of 1196 library staff in the university libraries (central libraries

only) under study.

30 percent are professional and 7 percent are para-professional staff members,

60 percent are non-professionals and 3 percent are the staff reserved for

automation and digitization.

Not a single university librarian holds a PhD degree. There are only 06(1.4%)

MPhil degree holders out of 422 total professional and para-professional

library staff in the country.

68 percent university librarians possess Masters’ Degree in Library and

Information Science (MLISc),

14 percent library professionals have Bachelor in Library Science (BLISc) also

known as Post Graduate Diploma in Library and Information Science (PGD-

LISc).

18 percent library staff is Certificate holders in Library and Information

Science (CLISc).

13. All university librarians of Islamabad, Punjab, Sindh, KPK, Balochistan and AJK

& NA are of the opinion that training on modern library technologies have a

positive impact on smooth operation of university libraries and library

professionals. It was suggested that the incharge of automation and digitization

section must have Masters Degree in Library and Information Science in addition

to Masters’ Degree in Computer Science (CS) or Information Technology (IT) or

Diploma in IT.

14. 72 percent university libraries have an average annual budget of less than Rs five

million.

15 percent university libraries have an annual budget ranging from Rs 5m-

134

10m.

Only 6(10%) out of 61university libraries have library budget ranging from

11m-15m. Only two (3%) university libraries namely COMSATS Institute of

IT Islamabad and University of Engineering and Technology each have

an annual average budget ranging from Rs 16m-20m

15. 93.4 percent university libraries reported that there is no separate budget for the

modernization of their university libraries.

Only one (1.6%) public sector university library namely International Islamic

University Islamabad has been allocated Rs one million budget separately for

automation of library functions. Three (5%) public sector universities i.e.,

COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Pir Mehr Ali Shah (PMAS)

University of Arid Agriculture Rawalpindi and Lahore University of

Engineering and Technology have more than Rs one million annual budget for

the implementation of emerging library technologies in their respective

libraries.

16. 96 percent librarians reported that they are not satisfied with the present

allocation of budget for automation purposes of their libraries. They have

mentioned that there is a need for a separate budget for automation and

digitization program.

5 percent university librarians have opted below 10 percent of the total library

budget for library automation.

30 percent university librarians have opted for 10 to 20 percent of total library

budget for library automation.

Half of the population of the university librarians have opted for 21 to 30

percent of total budget for the automation purposes of their university libraries.

5 percent university librarians have opted for 30 to 40 percent of total library

budget.

3 percent university librarians have opted for more than 40 percent of the total

library budget.

135

7 percent university librarians are satisfied and have no demand for more

budget allocation for the automation and digitization of their respective

university libraries.

5.1.4 Technology- based resources

17. 57 percent public sector university libraries have computers from 1-15,

31 percent university libraries have 16-50 computers and

12 percent university libraries have more than 50 computers.

72 percent university libraries have 1 to 3 printers in their libraries,

9 percent have more than 3 printers in their respective libraries,

9 percent reported that they have no printer in the premises of their libraries.

72 percent librarians reported that the university libraries have no digital

camera, 25 percent do have digital cameras from 1 to 3.

Only 02(3%) university libraries claimed of having more than 3 digital

cameras for the digitization of library documents.

18. 55 percent university libraries have UPS/Generator to cope with the electricity

failure problems, while 45 percent have no such facility.

82 percent universities have no Radio Frequency Systems (RF) for the

implementation of modern library technologies in their respective libraries.

The remaining 18 percent university libraries reported that Radio Frequency

System is available in the premises of their libraries.

48 percent automated public sector university libraries are using Library and

Information Management System (LIMS) for the operation of library

functions.

19 percent automated university libraries are using Koha as integrated library

software,

136

15 percent university libraries are using WINISIS (CDS/ISIS for Windows) for

automation of library procedures,

6 percent have Library Automation and Management Program (LAMP) and

12 percent are using different integrated library softwares like Academic

Management System (AMS) used by Institute of Space Technology Islamabad,

Library Manager (LM) by Pakistan Institute of Engineering & Applied

Sciences (PIEAS) Islamabad, UET- Libas by University of Engineering and

Technology Taxila, Alice for Windows by National College of Arts Lahore,

Virtua by Fatima Jinnah Woman University Rawalpindi and Hazara University

Mansehra Khyber Pukhtoonkhwa.

19. 39 percent automated university libraries have completed more than 80% of their

library automation process and have developed data bases for their library

holdings.

30 percent libraries are in the process of automation and have fed about

51- 80% of their library collection into their computers.

31 percent automated university libraries have entered below 50% of their

documents into their computer systems.

20. 92 percent university libraries have no separate library websites. The libraries of

these universities are uploaded in the main home page of the university as a

hyper link.

Only 8 percent university libraries namely COMSATS Institute of Information

Technology Islamabad; UET Lahore; Punjab University Lahore; Nadirshaw

Edulji Dinshaw (NED) UET Karachi; and University of Karachi have their

own separate websites. These websites contain general information related to

their respective libraries, rules and regulations, staff details, services, resources

and OPAC etc.

137

5.1.5 Physical resources

21. The Librarians of the public sector university libraries reported that space

reserved for reading in their respective university libraries is adequate as per

international standards. They also pointed out that the furniture/ seating

arrangements of these university libraries are as good as with the furniture/

seating arrangements of a modern university library. These libraries also have

adequate facilities of printing/ softcopy as compared with a modern university

library. They were also of the opinion that university libraries have photocopying

facilities as per modern university library standards. They also commented that

lighting/ventilation system of the public sector university libraries is up to the

international standards. It is concluded that the university libraries have good

seating arrangement, proper ventilation /lighting system; enough reading area for

readers, need based softcopy /printing facilities and photocopy facilities in their

premises. However the situation regarding the provision of research

cubicles/cabins and building safety is not up to the mark.

5.2 Digital technology and university library services and resources

22. Most of the respondents reported that technology-based library services are

better than manual services. They occupy lesser space, they are accurate, can be

provided in no time, can be provided round the clock and can be tailor- made for

specific purposes.

23. Librarians agreed with the statement that emerging library technologies have a

positive impact on cataloguing of documents, information retrieval and circulation

control. Librarians also agreed that modern technology has positive impact on

stock verification, use of electronic Dewey Decimal Classification (e-DDC) and

Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC). Therefore, we may safely conclude that

technology based library services have a positive impact on library house keeping

routines and technical processing of library documents.

24. Librarians agreed that digital technology applications have improved the

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efficiency of the library. Emerging digital technologies have improved the

knowledge and expertise of the library professionals. University librarians agreed

that digital technology applications have increased the regular budgeting of the

university libraries. However, librarians are uncertain whether digital technology

takes over the traditional way of information handling or not? However, librarians

disagreed with the view that DT reduces the work load of the library

professionals.

25. There was a unanimous view on the statements: networking of university libraries

will help in avoiding duplication of catalogue entries; will be able to enhance

resource sharing; library services will be standardized and will help in building

standard collection.

26. University librarians agreed more consistently that users need user- education to

fully utilize technology based information services and they maintained that

computers and other equipment are always in good condition.

Librarians also agreed that the library staff is able to train in emerging library

technologies and users give preference to electronic resources as against

manual printed version of a document.

27. University librarians are of the general opinion that financial constraint and

copyright (for digitization of documents) are the barriers in the way of adopting

emerging library technologies. University librarians agreed with the statement that

lack of systematic planning for automation and digitization, provision of internet

facilities, internet speed, information technology infrastructure, security and

professional skills are the main barriers to the implementation of modern library

technologies. It was observed that librarians were uncertain about the statement

that the will/motivation of the university librarians towards modern library trends

which tends to be slack and slow.

28. There was a complete agreement among the librarians about the two queries:

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- electronic resources need expensive tools to access required information

- electronic devices are used to operate electronic resources which are power

dependent, so electricity failure does also act as a barrier.

29. Librarians agreed with the statement that updating of electronic resources is more

easy and time saving. Electronic resources have achieved the objectives of

resource sharing through networking. Although these resources are user friendly,

but need some basic computer knowledge to get the maximum benefit.

30. Librarians were of the general opinion that modern technological skills of the

students should be improved. Faculty members should lay emphasis on LIS

postgraduate students to learn how to access e-resources and how to manage e-

records. This should be an integral part of the course on Information Storage and

Retrieval taught at the MLISc Degree Program. They suggested that practical

problems of modern trends should be targeted through research by Library and

Information Science schools as well as by regular publication of Pakistan Library

Association (PLA) and LIS academia research papers. It was also pointed out that

university libraries should increase their awareness campaigns concerning the

availability of electronic resources.

31. University librarians reported that the use of e-mail alert system, text messages

and prizes for those who make frequent use of e-resources should be considered

by the university libraries as incentive and promotion of use of library resources.

Cell phone short message services should also be introduced in library electronic

resources services. Encouragement to students through academic staff for

promotion of the use of electronic resources be given.

32. The librarians emphasized on the recruitment of IT trained LIS faculty. There is a

serious and dire need of IT based teaching staff in the LIS schools to provide the

necessary technology –based training needed in the 21st century. It is also

necessary that regular and continuous review of the curriculum be made so as to

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incorporate new and emerging knowledge especially in the area of modern library

trends.

33. The university librarians suggested that a committee representing experts and

skilled professionals be constituted, who may suggest strategies for developing

the modern university library system for Pakistan and give recommendations

relating to the operation of automated university libraries, including requirements

of infrastructure, software, training and skills. It was also suggested that present

policies should be revised and re-designed to lay stress on the provision of

digitized publications and development of modern library systems.

34. The librarians are of the view that the bibliographical details of total collection

especially theses and own journals placed at the universities/ DAIs/ R& D

organizations should be obtained by HEC digital library to avoid duplication. The

digitization of these materials should be carried out. Although this is a huge

project but once completed and implemented, it will achieve the goals like saving

space, time, labour and cost savings. Moreover, it will improve the efficiency and

bring about effective services for the users. If that database was launched online,

it may provide round the clock availability to the users of all academic and other

authorized institutions. It would multiply accessed source of information. This

effort will provide the opportunity to sell e-resources to other organizations of the

world and get a source of revenue for the country. This practice will also give an

opportunity to the researchers, faculty members and students to utilize the

collection of all university libraries. The concept of library without four walls be

developed. The issue of security be solved with various security tools like firewall

and encryption etc.

35. A few librarians commented that user education program of HEC digital library

should be boosted. The librarians and end users should be the target of the

program. The respondents further commented that there is no digital library policy

in Pakistan. There is an urgent need of digital library policy in the country which

will give the library a target to develop useful collection of library materials.

141

36. The librarians are of the opinion that development and implementation of uniform

standard integrated library software was necessary. They stressed that library

standards used in university libraries must be uniform. The librarians also urged

that required modern technologies be provided to all university libraries of the

country. The professionals be given periodic training on these emerging library

technologies.

37. Majority of the librarians working in the university libraries of the country are of

the view that the introduction of emerging technologies in libraries has a positive

impact on library and information services and resources. They are also of the

view that the online resources have solved many problems of researchers, students

and faculty members in their requisite literature search. They also highlighted that

digital technology is important for providing standard information to the readers

in short span of time.

5.3 Users’ response towards the application and impact of emerging technologies on

university libraries.

38. It was revealed that users’ community of the universities include under- graduate

students, research scholars and teachers. The other users include non-teaching

staff of the universities.

39. 86 percent users visit the library for using internet,

82 percent users visit the library for issue/return/renew of books,

69 percent of users use the library for study purposes,

57 percent users visit the library to access HEC digital library,

43 percent users’ visit the library for research purposes and an equal number

visit the library for using of OPAC.

47 percent users visit the library on a daily basis.

28 percent library users visit on alternate days.

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13 percent users visit once in three days.

The rest of the users (12%) reported that they visit the library once in a week,

once in a month or rarely.

40. 57 percent users of the public sector universities reported that they spend

between 30 minutes to two hours in the library for study and internet.

36 percent users expressed that they spend less than 30 minutes on a single visit to

the university library.

7 percent claimed that they spend between 2 to 5 hours. 6 percent users spend

more than 5 hours on a visit to the library.

41. 88 percent users from the public sector universities reported that they are visiting

the university libraries for circulation purposes i,e for issue/ return/renew of

library documents.

77 percent opined that they receive user education about the various services and

resources of the university libraries under study.

72 percent users responded that they receive the facility of photocopying in their

libraries.

68 percent users reported that they utilize reference services in the library.

76 percent users are using Universal Serial Bus (USB) for access and retrieval of

information in the university libraries.

42. 49 percent users are visiting the library to use bibliographical services.

19 percent are on the list of Selective Dissemination of Information services

(SDI),

26 percent are availing Current Awareness Services (CAS) as well as indexing

and abstracting services.

58 percent are using printers in the libraries.

27 percent are using scanners for digitization of documents in the libraries.

10 percent are using laptops in the premises of the university libraries.

43. Users were of the general view regarding the query “quality and quantity of

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newspapers/business dailies placed in the university libraries for general reading

were satisfactory. The users of the university libraries rated the quality and

quantity of reference sources of the university libraries as good. The users

responded with the remarks that the quality and quantity of the books placed for

reading/borrowing purposes of the patrons inside the university libraries are good.

The users rated the journals as good. The users were uncertain about the usage of

project reports/dissertations and government reports in their university libraries.

44. Users made a general demand for more PCs in the library building. They also

wanted increase in the speed of internet.

45. Users requested for a more modern user education program. This practice should

be introduced in all the institutions of higher learning in the universities of

Pakistan. The training session to focus on importance of libraries of emerging

library technologies and requisite skills for using these.

46. Users recommended that libraries should be appealing and attractive. Users

suggested that small interviews with readers be conducted to know the real

problems faced by the users.

47. Users agreed that there is a highly significant change in the speed of academic and

research work by using digital library technologies.

48. Users reported that browsing of e-resources have satisfied their information

needs. Users requested for regular updating of databases.

49. Most of the readers commented that the digital technology has a positive impact

on library services and resources and the emergence of modern library trends have

helped them in proper utilization of university libraries.

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5.4 Suggestions for improving university library and information services and

resources on modern lines

On the basis of the findings arrived at, the following are some of the suggestions

that will help in the improvement of public sector university libraries of

Islamabad, Punjab, Sindh, KPK, Balochistan, Azad Jammu & Kashmir and

Northern Areas.

1. Collections of the university libraries should be developed in a

balanced manner giving due share to digital resources also. University

libraries should make efforts in making available their collections

(especially specialized collections/local journals, rare archival

material, theses, local government reports etc) on their websites to

share their resources with the other university libraries. Libraries

should invest in developing library home pages to provide web-based

services to their readers. In order to fulfil the deficiency of collection

and to quench the information thirst of the users, they may be given

access to the HEC digital library.

2. In order to provide standard and effective information services to the

users, university libraries need appropriate funding. The allocation of

reasonable budget should be made available to the university libraries

for obtaining required hardware and software. Modern library trends

require more finance. Therefore a special budget may be reserved for

the automation and modernization of university libraries. A separate

budget should be reserved for the automation and digitization of

university libraries. It is suggested that 30 percent of the total library

budget may be allocated for the implementation of modern library

technologies. Well-defined planning for the utilization and

categorization of this budget be given due importance.

3. University libraries should have latest computer systems, printers,

scanners, Bar Code Readers, DVD writers and CD Writers etc. It is

essential to have a good integrated multilingual latest version software.

145

To protect the computers from virus attack, active latest version anti-

virus software is also available and need to protect automated system.

4. Development and implementation of uniform standard integrated

library software is absolutely necessary. The standards used in

university libraries must be uniform. It is also recommended that

required modern technologies be provided to all the university libraries

of the country. The professionals be given periodic training on these

emerging library technologies.

5. Electricity failure is a major obstacle to the smooth operation of

emerging library technologies. To resolve this issue, the provision of a

powerful Un-interrupted Power Supply or generator be installed in the

premises of the library.

6. A modern library website is a more useful tool for providing latest

information to the readers without the space and time restrictions. In

Pakistan, separate university library websites are far and few. The

libraries are linked with the main home pages of the university

websites. It is recommended that separate websites be designed for

each university library of the country.

7. The manpower in university libraries should be skilled in emerging library

technologies. The selection and appointment of IT human resource, research

and professional development programs in modern technologies are

indispensible tools for the development of expert and professionally sound

library professionals.

8. It is suggested that recruitment of IT trained LIS faculty is the need of the

day. There is a serious and dire need of IT based teaching staff in the LIS

Departments to provide the necessary technology-based training needed in

the 21st century. There is also a need for regular and continuous review of

the curriculum so as to incorporate new and emerging areas in library trends.

146

9. It is suggested that the librarians should receive the users with open arms.

The behaviour of the librarians should be user-friendly. Small interviews

with users are also helpful to tackle the problems of the readers. Certain

techniques like e-mail alert system, text messages and rewards for the

frequent and potential library users should be taken into consideration by the

library personnel as this method can promote and encourage the readers and

reading habits.

10. HEC digital library staff should train the librarians of the central libraries of

the universities in introducing new library tools. The skills of these

librarians may be developed in such a manner that they may be able to teach

users how to search /browse for e-information, evaluate their validity, and

make use of these resources. The librarians should be expert in creation and

usage of digital libraries. It is suggested that library professionals with

sound computer background should be recruited so as to assist the computer

professionals working in HEC Digital Library.

11. In order to exploit all the available resources of all the university libraries, a

comprehensive and effective network system should be developed. This

practice will improve the services, role and performance of the libraries.

This system will be also helpful in avoiding duplication of cataloguing

entries.

12. Keeping in view the limited resources of the university libraries, it is

suggested that all the available library materials (theses, own journals,

manuscripts, rare materials and other specialized collection) should be

digitized. By doing so, we will be able to have access to vast amount of

literature and to raise the standard of our libraries to international level and

ultimately this will enable us to create a room for our library resources in

international market and thus we can bring a source of revenue like other

147

digital library systems of the world. Moreover, the current problems of

space and security will be rooted out and the concept of library without

walls will take deeper roots. The said project will indeed cost a lot as it

needs huge financial resources, but once it gets completed, it will be a

source of learning for our students, research scholars and teachers.

13. In order to reach the destination of digitization of our libraries at the national

level, it is suggested that a committee of relevant professionals be

constituted. The responsibility of the committee will be as under:

To critically analyse the existing digital library policies of the

world especially in the developing countries;

Keeping in view the outcome of the analysis, a digital library

policy be framed;

To fix standards for hardware, software and other relevant

parameters as per requirements of a modern digital library;

To frame laws for the prevention of cyber crimes like hacking and

copyright violations and unauthorized access of e- resources

14. To put the public sector university libraries on modern library trends,

maximum opportunities as well as resources be provided to all the libraries

of the country. The provinces of Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan

and AJK & NA should be given preference by providing more financial

grants for the modernization of their university libraries.

It is safely concluded that modern library services and resources are better than

manual services and resources. Islamabad and Punjab are far ahead in

modernization of university libraries as compared to Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,

Balochistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir & Northern Areas. Digital technology

has a positive impact on university library services and resources. It has enhanced

the image and effectiveness of the university libraries.

148

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SUGGESTION FOR FURTHER STUDIES

This study has opened the door to many other aspects of library modernization.

The following are some of them:

1- Impact of digital technology on library services and resources in the private

sector universities of Pakistan.

2- Studies should be conducted like this in other developing countries of the

world.

3- Comparative analysis of modern library trends in public and private sector

universities.

4- Comparative analysis of modern library practices in Pakistan and other

developing countries of the world.

5- Studies should be conducted to assess the hardware and software requirements

of libraries in the country.

6- Studies should be conducted to frame digital library policy in Pakistan.

7- This study should also be replicated after ten years.

8- Comparative analysis of standard library software in Pakistan and rest of the

world.

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CONTRIBUTION TO KNOWLEDGE

This study has covered the areas of basic library services, resources,

technology-based infrastructure and the impact of modern

technologies on university libraries. It has reasonably contributed to

the field of librarianship in specific and knowledge in general. This

study will help and guide the modern librarians in a right direction. It

will provide a clear picture of the university libraries to the planners,

educationists, policy makers, higher ups of the universities and

librarians community in the country.

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APPENDIX-A

QUESTIONNAIRE

DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY AND ITS IMPACT ON LIBRARY AND

INFORMATION SERVICES AND RESOURCES IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR

UNIVERSITIES OF PAKISTAN.

PART I: DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION

1- Your name please: ………………………………………………………

1.1 E-mail: ………………………………………………………..

1.2 Telephone ……………………… Cell …………………..

1.3 Designation (BPS) ……………… Gender …………………

1.4 Professional Qualification: ………… Age …………………

2- Name of university ………………………………………………..

2.1 Date of establishment ……………………………………….

2.3 No. of faculties/ departments ………………………………..

2.4 Total no; of affiliated colleges ……………………………….

2.5 Yearly enrolment ……………………………………………

2.6 Name of the university library (if any) ……………………..

2.7 Website of the university/ library …………………………

2.8 Total no: of seminar libraries ……………………………...

3- Training Courses/Seminars/Workshops attended in digital technology

related areas. Please list brief titles, duration and years.

………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………………………...

.................................................................................................................

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4- How many users visit your library on a daily basis?

... . ……………………………………………

5- How many users visit your digital library section on a daily basis?

4.1 Faculty members ………………………………………..

4.2 Researchers ………………………………………………

4.3 Students …………………………………………………

4.4 Alumni ………………………………………………….

4.5 Others (Please specify) …………………………………

PART II: INFRASTRUCTURE AND RESOURCES

PHYSICAL FACILITIES

6- Keeping in mind the perfect ambience of a modern library in a University,

please tick (√) your rating on the following scale about physical facilities in your

library.

1. Very Good 2.Good 3. Uncertain 4. Poor 5. Very Poor

Description 2

Furniture/Seating Arrangement

Lighting/Ventilation

Reading Area

Research Cubicles/Cabins

Air Conditioning

Library Building( Safety Aspects)

Printing Facilities/ Soft copy facility

Photocopying Facilities

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COMPUTER FACILITIES

Please provide the information about the digital technology infrastructure

available in the library.

7- Whether your library is automated? Fully Automated □

Partially Automated □ Not Automated □ If yes,

7.1 Year of starting of library automation: ______________________

7.2 Whether the library management software is a network version? Yes/No

7.3 Whether the management software has online help for users Yes/No

7.4 Whether the management software has OPAC facility? Yes/No

7.5 Whether the management software has Web OPAC facility? Yes/No

7.6 What is the level of library automation? (Please give the following details)

____________________________________________________________

S.No Library functions Automated

___________________________________________________________

1 Acquisition

2 Cataloguing

3 Circulation

4 Serials Control

5 OPAC

6 Annual Stock Verification

7 Budget Control

8 Other (Please specify)

_______________________________________________________________

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8- Please mention the quantity of hardware and software available in your

library.

Hardware

S.No Nomenclature Available status Quantity

Computer terminals Yes/No

Servers Yes/No

Printers Yes/No

Scanners Yes/No

Bar Code Readers Yes/No

LCD Projectors Yes/No

Digital Camera Yes/No

CDWriters Yes/No

UPS/Generator Yes/No

RF Security System Yes/No

Software

Nomenclature Product Name Quantity

Operating System used in computer terminals

Operating System on servers

Library Management Software

Digital Library Software

Data Bases/Relational databases

Anti Virus software

Anti Plagiarism software

Any other

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9- Have you created a database of library holdings? Yes □ No □

10- If yes, then please mention whether it covers the following items

S.No Description Status Quantity

1 Books Yes/No

2 Journal back volumes Yes/No

3 Reports Yes/No

4 Dissertations/ Theses Yes/No

5 Manuscripts Yes/No

6 Audio Visual Materials Yes/No

7 CD ROM databases Yes/No

8 Any other Yes/No

9 Total No. of records in the database

LEARNING RESOURCES

11- Present collection (on 01-10-2010)

11.1 Books_________________________

11.2 Research Journals i) Foreign journals _______________

ii) Pakistani journals_______________

Iii) Online/Electronic journals ________

11.3 Back volumes of research journals________________

11.4 Magazines ____________________

11.5 No: of Newspapers ______________

11.6 Manuscripts ___________________

11.7 Theses ______________________

11.8 Dissertation/ Project reports ___________

11.9 Technical reports ____________________

11.10 Non-Book materials

i) Audio cassettes __________

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ii) Video cassettes __________

CDs ___________________

Slides __________________

Microforms ______________

Transparencies ___________

Software(s) _______________

Databases _______________

11.11 Total collection ________________

11.12 Total collection of the seminar libraries _______

HUMAN RESOURCES

12- Total work force in your library

i) Professional staff ……………………

ii) Para Professional staff ………………

iii) Non-Professional ……………………

iv) Automation & Digitization staff …….

Total workforce: ------------------

13- Please provide number of library staff against each category:

PhD______________ M.Phil___________________

MLIS_____________ BLIS/PG-DLIS ____________

CLI.Sc____________

14- Number of Workshops/ Training Programmes attended in the past five

years by the library staff in the digital technology related area:

i) Professional ……………………………………….

ii) Para-Professional ……………………………………….

iii) Non-Professional ……………………………………….

iv) Total ……………………………………………………

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15- Do you feel that technology based training programmes have improved the

efficiency of yourself or of your staff? Yes □ No □

Unsure □

16- In your opinion what special qualifications are required for the person in

charge of automation and digitization in a university library?

………………………………………………………………………………

FINANCIAL RESOURCES

17- What are the financial resources of your library?

18- Write down the total budget of the university library for the following

financial years?

19- Write down the total budget for the Automation and Digitization Section of your

Library.

Sources/Grants Please(tick)

HEC/Government

Trust

Donations/Endowments

Overdue Charges, Sale of old newspapers,

Membership charges etc

Any Other (Please specify)

2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10

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2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09

20- Please provide details of the funds allocated for different library materials:

Library

material

2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10

Books

Journals/

Magazines

Newspapers

A/V material

Microforms

Rare material

Preservation

Automation

&

Digitization

21- Are you satisfied with the budget allocation for your Automation and Digitization

Sections? Yes/No

If not, what is your suggestion (Please tick)

□ Below 10% of the total library budget □ 10-20% □ 21-30%

□ 31-40% □ 41-50% □ 50% and above

□ other

PART III: Networking and information services

22- Please provide details about status of the library& information services

being offered in your library. (Please tick the applicable segment)

1) Book lending ………………………………

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2) Inter library loan ……………………………

3) Reprographic services ……………………

4) Reference services …………………………

5) Circulation of Accession lists ……………..

6) Routing of periodicals ……………………

7) User education …………………………….

8) Compilation of bibliographies ………….

9) Translation services ……………………….

10) New arrivals’ list. ………………………………

11) Current Awareness Services ………………

12) Selective Dissemination of Information……….

13) Indexing services ……………………………….

14) Abstracting services ……………………………

15) Bulletin Board service …………………………

16) E-mail ……………………………………………

18) Photocopying service …………………………

19) Internet ………………………………

20) Fax …………………………………………

21) Telephone………………………………….

22) Other………………………………………..

23- Does your library have internet connectivity? Yes/No

1. Speed of connection in Kbps/Mbps

2. Since how many years is internet connectivity available

in your library?

□ 10 years or more □ 5-9 years □ 1-4 Years □ less than 1

year □ other

3. Internet services to users are: □ Fee Based □ Free

4. No. of computer terminals having internet connectivity in

your library

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5. Internet is primarily used for

E-mail FTP Telnet Chating

Phone Book Acquisition e- journals

Online databases(search and research) Fax

______________________________________________________________

24- Does your library provide Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC)?

Yes/No

If yes, please tick the appropriate box.

1. How many users make use of OPAC every day? (Approx.)

□ 0-50 □ 51-100 □ 101-150 □ 151 or more

2. How many OPAC terminals are installed in library premises?

□ 0-2 □ 3-5 □ 6-7 □ 8 or more

3. Does Faculty/Students have access to library OPAC through

LAN? Yes/No

4. How do you rate the usage of OPAC?

□ Very High □ High □ Uncertain □ Average □ Low

25- 1. Does your library have its own website? Yes/ No

2. What is the extent of library information that is hosted on your website?

(Please tick the appropriate boxes)

□ General Information □ Rules and regulations

□ Staff details □ CAS/ SDI Bulletin

□ OPAC □ other(please specify)

26- Tick the system and rules alongwith edition being used.

1. Name of Classification scheme used ……………………….

Are you satisfied with the classification scheme followed? Yes/ No

If not, what standard would you prefer instead?

………………………………………………………………………

2. Cataloguing rules in practice …………………………………

Are you satisfied with the existing cataloguing rules followed? Yes/No

177

If not, what standard would you prefer instead?

………………………………………………………………………

3. Standards used for assigning keywords:

a) Chain procedure __________

b) Sears’ List of Subject Headings______________

c) LC Subject Headings ______

Are you satisfied with the existing standards for keywords? Yes/No

If not, what standard would you prefer instead?

………………………………………………………………………

27-. Please indicate your opinion on the following:

1. Computer and other equipment in the library are always in good

conditions.

□ Strongly Agree □ Agree □ Uncertain □ Disagree

□ Strongly Disagree

2. Existing library staff is well trained in computers and its applications in

libraries.

□ Strongly Agree □ Agree □ Uncertain □ Disagree

□ Strongly Disagree

28- What are the better methods of keeping library professionals updated?

□ Conferences & Seminars □ Training programmes □ Refresher

courses □ Continued Education Program □ Any other (Pl.specify)

29- Do you feel that technology based information services are better than

manual services? Yes □ No

If yes, in what way technology based information services are better than manual

information services. Please give your opinion about the statements on the

following scale.

178

1. Strongly Agree 2. Agree 3. Uncertain 4. Disagree

5. Strongly Disagree

Sr. No Description 1 3

1 They are accurate

2 They are consistent

3 They can be provided with

lesser time

4 They can occupy lesser space

5 They can be provided round

the clock

6 Can be tailor-made for

specific user needs

30- Do you feel that technology based technical services have a positive impact on

library services and resources

1. Strongly Agree 2. Agree 3. Uncertain 4.Disagree

5. Strongly Disagree

Sr.No Description

1 Acquisition work

2 Cataloguing of documents

3 OPAC

4 Use of E-DDC

5 Digitization of documents

6 Circulation Control

7 Serials Control

8 Information retrieval

9 Stock verification

1

0

Accounting & Management

1 Electronic theft detection system

179

1

31- Comparing technology based information services with that of manual information

services. Please give your opinion about the following statements on the scale given

below:

1. Strongly Agree 2. Agree 3. Uncertain 4. Disagree 5. Strongly Disagree

Sr.No Description 3 4

1 Users prefer to search electronic

resources before they do a manual

search of printed versions

2 Users require orientation to make

the maximum use of technology

based information services

3 Technology based information

services have a positive impact

and thus have improved the image

of the library

4

Library staff is required to

undergo training periodically to

make optimum use of IT

applications in managing library

and information centers

32- Attitude towards application of Digital Technology (DT).Please indicate your

attitude towards the application of Digital Technology in your library.

1. Strongly Agree 2. Agree 3. Uncertain 4. Disagree 5. Strongly Disagree

Sr.No Description 1 2 4

1 DT are to improve the quality of

library services

2 DT applications improve the

180

efficiency of library

3 DT enhances the knowledge and

expertise

4 DT reduces the work load of the

library professionals

5 DT increases regular budgeting

6 DT takes over the traditional way

of information handling in the

library.

33- Does your library provide technology based user education/orientation program for

proper use of library services and resources? □ Yes □ No

1. If yes, how frequently is it provided?

□ In the beginning of the academic year □ when requested

□ In every semester □ Any other (Pl.specify)

2. Who conducts this User Education Program?

□ Librarian □ Assistant Librarian □ Faculty member

□ Any other (Pl.specify) …………………

3. What methods are used to conduct User Education Programmes?

□ Lectures □ Guided Tours □ Seminars

□ Demonstrations □ Printed Guide □ Any other (Pl.specify)

4. What is the duration of User Education Programmes?

□ Half-an-Hour □ One Hour □ One day

□ Two days □ Other

5. Do you feel that User Education Program (UEP) has helped users to

make better use of library services and resources? □ Yes □ No

181

6. Do you feel that UEP has a positive impact on the library services and

resources? □ Yes □ NO

34- We all know that digital resources/ electronic resources can be shared easily with the

establishment of a network system among the university libraries. In the light of this,

please express your opinion about the statement on the following scale.

1. Strongly Agree 2. Agree 3. Uncertain 4. Disagree 5. Strongly Disagree

Sr.No Description 1 2 3 4

1 By forming a network of

university libraries in

Pakistan, we will be able to

enhance resource sharing

2 It will standardize library

services

3 It will build standard

collections

4 The efficiency of human

resources will be improved.

5 Duplication of catalogue

entries will be avoided.

35- (a) Please tick mark the tools used for book selection

□ Publishers’ Catalogues □ Publishers’ circulated E-mails

□ National Bibliography □ Publishers’ Websites □ Book Reviews

□ Other …………….

(b) How do you order for supply of books (Please tick mark?)

□ Through post/ courier □ Telephone □ Online Ordering

□ Fax □ Any other………………………………………..

36- Considering that Publishers’ Websites is as major book selection tool, please give

182

your opinion about the following statements on the following scale.

1. Strongly Agree 2. Agree 3. Uncertain 4. Disagree 5. Strongly Disagree

Sr.NO Description 4

1 It provides full

bibliographical details

2 Price verification can be done

easily

3 E-mail facilitates faster

communication with the

publishers

4 Placing orders through

internet is convenient &

saves a lot of time

5 Speed of delivery of books

for which order is placed

online is better than

conventional methods

37- Comparing advantages of digital/electronic resources over conventional print version,

please give your opinion about the statements on the following scale.

1. Strongly Agree 2. Agree 3. Uncertain 4. Disagree 5. Strongly Disagree

Sr.No Description

1 It is not necessary to retain journal

bound volumes even after the library has

all the back volumes in digital/electronic

form or has access to them from a digital

repository

We can save lot of storage space by

183

2 having resources like Journal back

volumes, Dissertations, Reports in

electronic form

3 It saves substantial amount of money

being spent on maintenance(binding,

cleaning, etc) of books , bound volumes

by having them in electronic/ digital

form

4 It is easy & convenient to conduct a

search on electronic resources

5 Electronic resources are not very

expensive compared to their print

version.

6 It is better to procure an electronic

version of a book/ journal if its price is

equal to or not much higher than print

version

7 In this networked environment,

electronic resources achieve the

objectives of resource sharing in a far

better way than print versions

8 Electronic resources require expensive

infrastructure to disseminate information

contained in them

9 Despite being user friendly, it requires

certain degree of computer knowledge to

get the maximum benefit of these

electronic resources

10 Librarians need to develop in-depth &

rigorous User Education Programs to

184

create awareness among users about

proper utilization of electronic resources.

11 Electronic resources can be updated

easily and immediately in case of online

sources.

12 Copyright is a barrier to electronic

resources

13 As electronic devices are used to operate

electronic resources which are power

dependent, so electricity failure can also

act as a barrier..

38- Any other information/experience that you want to share about the impact of digital

technology on library services and resources?

…………………………………………….

Signature

185

APPENDIX-B

QUESTIONNAIRE

(for the users of the Library/ Information Centre)

DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY AND ITS IMPACT ON LIBRARY SERVICES AND

RESOURCES IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR UNIVERSITIES OF PAKISTAN.

1- Name:

E-mail(optional): Phone/Cell(optional):

Department: Educational Qualification:

Sex(optional): Age(optional):

Field of study/ Teaching: ear/Semester:

2- Type of membership you have in the library

a) Under graduate Student

b) Research Scholar

c) Teacher

3- Why do you visit the library? ( Please tick √ )

To study

To conduct research

To borrow/ return/ renew books

For recreational purposes

Any other (Please specify)…………………………………….

__________________________________________________________

4- Frequency of library visit (Please tick)

__________________________________________________________________

Daily Alternative days Once in three days

Once a week Once a month Occasionally Never

____________________________________________________________

186

5- Average time spent in the library on a visit ( Please tick)

a) Less than 30 minutes

b) Between 30 minutes and two hours

c) Between 2 and 5 hours

d) More than 5 hours

e) Other

6- Are you aware of the following library and information services?

(Please tick√)

Library services Yes No Not sure

Lending/ Circulation

Reading hall

Reference services

Inter library loan

User education

Photocopying

Any other

Information services

Bibliographic Services

Current Awareness Services (CAS)

Selective Dissemination of Information

(SDI)

Indexing/ Abstracting services

Technology based Information services

OPAC

E-mail

Web based OPAC

E-Journals access

187

Internet

Bulletin Board services

7- How do you rate the quality and quantity of the following traditional

learning resources in your library?

(Please√ the one closest to your choice on the following scale)

1. Very Good 2. Good 3. Uncertain 4. Poor 5. Very Poor

Description

Books

Reference sources

Journals

Project Reports/Dissertations

Govt. Reports

Newspapers/ Business Dailies

8- Do you use any of the following information handling tools/ utilities/

devices/ services/ resources in your library?

___________________________________________________________

No Tools/utilities/devices/services/resources Please tick

___________________________________________________________

USB CD-ROM DVD VCD

Printer Scanner Smart card E-Books

Laptop Computer Telephone Fax E-mail

Bibliographic databases WWW Ftp Telnet

E-Journals

___________________________________________________________

188

9- Do you use online catalogue in your library? Yes/No

If yes, what are the accesses points through which you search?

a) Author b) Title

c) Words in title d) Subject

e) Class number f) Place

g) Publisher h) Series

i) Boolean search j) Truncation

l) Word proximity l) ISBN

10- Did you get any orientation in the use of online catalogue? Yes/No

If not, how did you come to know about searching techniques/strategies

in the online catalogue (Please Tick?)

a) Through trial and error b) By observing others browse

the catalogue

c) From your friends d) Any other (Please specify)

11- Do you get computerized book circulation facilities? Yes/No

If yes, what are the services available? (Please tick)

a) Issue/Return b) Document Reservation

c) Fine Collection d) Enquiry

e) Any other (please specify) ……………………………

12- Do you find the computer based circulation procedure time saving?

Yes/No

13- Do you use internet facility in your library? Yes/No

If yes, Please indicate the services you use in the internet

a) Web browsing b) Email

189

c) Chatting d) Newsgroup

e) Discussion group f) Searching databases

g) Accessing E-books and journals

h) Accessing Reference sources i) Other purposes please specify

14- Please specify the purpose of your internet usage

a) Study/Learning b) Research

c) To collect general information d) Recreational

e) Communication f) Any other (please specify) …

……………………………..

15- Do you receive required information through internet? Yes/No

Do you find internet connection sufficient to meet your requirements?

16- Do you think your skills and expertise are inadequate to use technology

based services and resources? Yes/No

If yes, in which area(s) do you want training?.........................................

17- How do you find user education in technology based resources and

services?

More adequate Adequate Inadequate

18- Do you feel any significant change in speed in your academic/ research

work by using the emerging library technologies? Yes/No

Highly significant Significant Not significant

19- To what extent are you satisfied with the application of digital

technologies in your library?

Very satisfied Satisfied Not satisfied

If you are not satisfied, please specify the reason(s) (please tick)

___________________________________________________________

S.No Reason(s) Tick

190

___________________________________________________________

1. Inadequate IT infrastructure

2. Limited computer literacy

3. Users are not trained for technology

based information services

4 Inadequately trained library professionals in technology

application

5 Inadequate publicity for the technology based services and

resources

6. Discouraging attitude of library professionals towards

their users

7. Rigid ICT use policies implemented by the libraries

8. No provision of this facility

20- Impact of digital technology on the following:

__________________________________________________________________

S.No category Positive impact No Impact Negative impact

__________________________________________________________________

1 Quality of library services

2 Efficiency of the library

3 Status of the library

4 Integration within the organization

5 Enhancement of the knowledge and

expertise

6 Book circulation

7 Use of internet

8 Other (please specify)

21- Do you feel that whenever digital sources are searched, the quality and

quantity of information you get is

□ Better than print version □ Not better than print version

191

□ same as that of print version

22- Library should add more and more of digital sources to its collection.

□ Strongly Agree □ Agree

□ Uncertain □ Disagree

□ Strongly Disagree

23- How do you rate the reference services provided by your library?

□ Very Good □ Good □ Uncertain

□ Poor □ Very Poor

24- Digital technology and its applications have helped libraries in developing

need based Current Awareness Services (CAS).

□ Strongly Agree □ Agree

□ Uncertain □ Disagree □ Strongly Disagree

25- On the whole users are satisfied with the approach of library staff in

providing technology based information services.

□ Strongly Agree □ Agree

□ Uncertain □ Disagree □ Strongly Disagree

26- Please give your suggestions and comments in a para or two,regarding the

impact of digital technology on library services and resources.

………………………………………………………………………………………

27- Your suggestions and comments in a para or two, regarding the impact of

digital technology on library services

………………………………………………………………………………………

Signature

192

APPENDIX-C

INTERVIEW SCHEDULE

(With Chief librarian)

General information

1 Name:

2 Name of the University

3 Phone:

B Impact of digital technology on university library services and resources

Please discuss the impact of DT on the following services and resources

and facilities

Impact of DT on library services

Technical services

Basic services

Information services

Technology based information services

Any other

Impact of DT on library resources

a. Financial resources

b. Human resources

c. Learning resources

d. Physical resources

C What are the major barriers to the application of digital technology in

university Libraries?

D What you suggest for the eradication of these barriers?

E Do you provide carrier advancement facilities to your library

professionals? Please explain.

F Do you provide user education in technology based library services and

resources? Please explain.

G Your comments.

193

APPENDIX-D

Definitions

Digital devices

The devices used for the digitization of documents are referred to as digital

devices. The following are some of the digital equipments used for the

digitization of documents.

Computer

The word “computer” is derived from the word “compute” which means to

compute or calculate. Computer is a machine that takes input in the form of data,

does processing on that data and gives the result. It is a device that accepts

information, processes it for some output . A computer can transmit, store, and

process information. A computer system is a combination of five elements namely

hardware, software, people, procedures and data/information. The basic

characteristics of computers are speed, accuracy, diligence, versatility and power

of remembering. The internal architectural design of computer differs from one

system model to another. However, the basic organization remains the same for

all computer system. The following five units correspond to the five basic

operations performed by all computer systems: input units, storage unit, output

units and control unit. According to the nature of work, computers have three

types: Analog computers, Digital and Hybrid Computers.

The input devices of a computer include Keyboard, Mouse, Trackball, Touchpad,

Track point, Joystick, Scanner, Punch card, Light pen, Optical Character Reader

(OCR), Bar Code Reader (BCR), Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR),

Optical Mark Recognition (OMR), Graphic Tablet or Digitizer, Microphones,

Sound Cards, Digital Cameras, Video Digitizer, Remote Control and Chemical

Detector. The output components of computer comprises of Monitors, Liquid

Crystal Display (LCD), Speakers, Printers, Plotters. Computer Output Microfilm

(COM). Storage devices consist of Magnetic Tape, Magnetic Disk, Floppy Disk,

194

Hard Disk, Zip Drive, Jazz Drive, Super Disk , CD-ROM, CD-R, WORM (Write

Once Read Many), CD-RW, DVD, Magneto-Optical and Fluorescent Disk

Technology.

The basic storage unit in a computer is bit. A bit has a single binary value, either 0

or 1. Eight bits are termed as byte and half a byte is called a nibble. Commonly

used storage unit is byte. Some bigger units of data storage are kilobyte,

megabyte, gigabyte, terabyte, petabyte, exabyte, zettabyte and yottabyte.

The life blood of a computer system is software. Software can generally be

divided into two categories: System software and Application software. Language

processor or Translator can also be treated as a type of software.

Computer has brought a revolution in the history of libraries. It has totally

changed the traditional library system into a modern library system. The invention

of computer has affected all aspects of library procedures. In the early ages of

computer applications to libraries, it was only used for the automation of house

keeping routines in the library. The inception of internet has developed the

concept of virtual or e-library. Now users can get their required information with

a click sitting at home or in the office.

Scanner

The input device that works like a photocopier but digitizes the information into a

computer. Scanners come in both handled and desktop models. Adobe’s

Photoshop and Greenstone Digital Library software are used for processing of

digitized documents. Scanners are widely used in digitization of library

documents.

Digital Camera

Camera is an apparatus used for taking photographs of objects under

consideration. The device that is used to capture images electronically rather than

on film is called digital camera. The image is taken by a group of Charged-

Coupled Devices (CCDs), saved in the RAM of camera, and transferred to a

195

computer for alteration, permanent storage or hard copy. The image can be easily

modified, cropped, combined and enhanced with the help of suitable software.

The photos captured with digital camera can easily be transmitted over internet.

The digital camera is more useful than traditional camera because it is

inexpensive, fast and requires no film processing. Digital camera can be used in

the digitization of library materials.

196

APPENDIX-E

Functions of library automation

K.T Lam (2001) highlighted the main functions of library automation in the

following style:

FIGURE 1: Functions of library automation

197

APPENDIX-F

Emerging Library Technologies

RFlD (Radio Frequency Identification) Technology

With the adoption of barcode technology during the 1970's - 1980's many libraries were

able to streamline workflow within circulation servers. The barcode allowed a quicker and

efficient way to retrieve unique identifier, which assisted libraries to track items. However,

barcodes need to be scanned within a hand held scanner or within 'line of sight

(Lichtenberg: 2003: 14).

The concept of RFlD technology is similar to that of a cellular phone. It is a combination

of radio -frequency-based technology and microchip technology and uses radio waves to

automatically identify people or objects.

Components of an RFlD

Thanuja C. Ranawell (2006) RFlD system consist of main four parts

(1) RFlD tags that are electronically programmed with unique information;

(2) readers or sensors to interrogate the tags

(3) antenna; and

(4) server

RFID has many advantages. It will increase speed of charging and discharging of

documents. Library staff can relieve from repetitive and clerical tasks. It can sort

documents automatically and library staff can shelve documents very easily. There are

portable readers. These portable readers can report the lost, hidden or unordered

documents more easily. RFID tags have greater storage capacity and can hold large

amount of information about a document. Security is a major concern in electronic

environment. RFID has solved this issue without staff interventions through electronic

theft detect system.

RFID technology has few short comings. As far as developing countries like Pakistan is

198

concerned, cost is a major barrier. For implementing and maintaining RFID system, a

substantial amount is needed. A comprehensive RFID system for 100,000 documents with

self charging station, book drop unit and automatic book sorting system ranges from $

100,000 to $ 200,000(Koneru, Indira: 2004:414). Another drawback is that the radio waves

cannot pass through liquid and metals at certain frequencies.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a subdivision of computer science devoted for creating

computer software and hardware that imitates the human mind. The main goal of AI is to

make computers smarter by creating software that will allow a computer to copy some of

the functions of human brain in selected applications. The major areas of application of AI

are expert system, natural language processing, computer vision, robotics and education.

Kumbargoudar, (1999) described that the application of AI to information and library

work is relatively recent and has been mostly in the expert systems field. Natural language

processing can be used to search relevant information from database, indexing and to

reduce language barriers. Artificial Intelligence is very effective for searching purposes

because it works on pattern matching techniques. AI application usually requires very

powerful computers with fast CPUs and lots of memory. That is why the increased cost

might represent a disadvantage of AI.

Expert system

The biggest use of Artificial Intelligence techniques is in expert systems. An expert system

is an artificial intelligence program incorporating a knowledge based inference system. It

is a highly specialized piece of software that attempts to duplicate the functions of an

expert in some field of expertise. The program acts as an intelligent consultant or advisor.

Expert system has been developed to solve a wide range of problems in domain such as

medicine, mathematics, engineering, geology, computer science, business, law, defense,

education. Expert system offer some of the following advantages (Louis E. Fresnel,

Jr:2000:73):

permit non-expert to do the work of experts

199

improve productivity by increasing work output by improving efficiency

save time in accomplishing a specific objective

simplify some operations

computerize routine clerical work.

Many provisions in the provision of library and information services involve expertise, and

thus provide applications where expert system’s techniques and technology promise to

improve performance (Muhammad Hanifa, K: 2006). An analysis of the literature on the

applications of expert system in LIS yields the following application areas Gibb (1992):

Intelligence interfaces, in particular interfaces for online information retrieval

system

Subject analysis and representation, including classification, indexing and

abstracting services

Information storage and retrieval systems in general

Reference and referral systems

Hypertext and hypermedia

Collection development

Smart card

Smart cards have widespread applications. It can be used for computer security, financial

matters (e.g. ATM, fuel cards, and electronic wallets), health care, access control,

administration, authentication and identification. Application of smart card in library

delivers increased efficiency by providing a means of regularly updating the library’s

inventory and maintaining an accurate control of borrowing records.

200

APPENDIX-G

Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC)

An OPAC (Online Public Access Catalog) is an online bibliography of a library

collection that is available to the public. OPACs developed as stand-alone online

catalogs, often from VT100 terminals to a mainframe library catalog. With the

arrival of the Internet, most libraries have made their OPAC accessible from a

server to users all over the world. Library materials in the library can be retrieved

through the OPAC. The library documents may be searched by Advanced

Keyword, Simple Keyword, AltaVista Type, Author, Title, Author/Title, Subject,

Call Number, and Journal.

Philip Doty and R. E. Wyllys (2001:14-31) give that OPACs offer numerous

advantages and disadvantages over their card-based predecessors. The major

advantages are:

• Users can perform much faster, the same kinds of searches that card

catalogs facilitate: viz author, title, subject-heading

• Search can also be made through call number, publication date, language,

publisher, series or illustrator

201

APPENDIX-H

Overview of the use of public sector university libraries in Pakistan

Overview of the use of public sector university libraries in Islamabad

S.No University Library Location Librarians

grade

Total

Collection

Total

Human

resources

Status of

Automation

Daily

visits of

users

01 Quaid-e-Azam University

Library

Islamabad 20 1,95,000 40 F.A 500

02 Comsat Institute of

Information Technology

do 19 65,000 20 F.A 1200

03 Federal Urdu University

Library

do 18 19000 06 F.A 480

04 International Islamic

University Library

do 20 200,000 82 F.A 3500

05 Air University Library do 17 15000 08 F.A 700

06 National University of

Modern Languages

Library

do 20 115,000 30 F.A 550

07 Institute of Space

Technology Library

do SPS-8 5636 05 F.A 100

08 Bahria University Library do 17 18558 11 F.A 300

09 Pakistan Institute of

Engineering and Applied

Sciences Library

do SPS-7 35000 12 F.A 700

10 National College of Arts

Library

do 17 7000 05 P.A 75

11 Centre for Applied Studies

in Engineering Library

do 17 15000 06 F.A 230

Note: F.A=Fully Automated P.A= Partially Automated N.A= Not Automated

Overview of the use of public sector university libraries in Punjab

S.No University Library Location Librarians

grade

Total

Collection

Total

Human

resources

Status of

Automation

Daily

visits

users

202

01 Punjab University Library Lahore 20 500,000 123 F.A 900

02 University of Engineering

and Technology Library

do 19 115,000 48 F.A 800

03 Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid

Agriculture University

Library

Rawalpindi 18 26955 09 P.A 230

04 University of Education

Library

Lahore 19 17,000 04 F.A 60

05 Lahore College for

Women University

Library

do 17 73000 08 P.A 100

06 National School of Public

Policy Library

do 17 55,000 07 F.A 50

07 University of Veterinary

and Animal Sciences

Library

do 17 30,000 21 F.A 250

08 Kinnaird College for

Women University

Library

do 17 18558 07 P.A 500

09 University of Gujrat

Library

Gujrat 17 80,000 05 F.A 900

10 Fathima Jinnah Women

University Library

Rawalpindi 17 35000 07 P.A 450

11 National College of Arts

Library

Lahore 17 33,000 12 F.A 330

12 King Edward Medical

College Library

do 17 41,000 02 N.A 100

13 Islamia University Library Bahawalpur 19 150,000 100 P.A 2000

14 National University of

Science and Technology

Library

Rawalpindi 18 10,000 14 F.A 360

15 University of Health

Sciences Library

Lahore 16 50,000 05 P.A 300

203

16 Govt. College University

Library

Lahore 20 307676 45 F.A 1000

17 Agriculture University

Library

Faisalabad 17 246220 57 F.A 2500

18 University of Engineering

and Technology Library

Taxila 20 55,000 05 P.A 250

Overview of the use of public sector university libraries in Azad Jammu Kashmir &

Northern Areas

S.No University Library Location Librarians

grade

Total

Collection

Total

Human

resources

Status of

Automation

Daily

visits of

users

01 University of Azad

Jammu and Kashmir

Library

Muzafar

Abad

20 50651 08 P.A 260

02 Karrakurrum International

University

Gilgit 18 4000 04 N.A 200

Overview of the use of public sector university libraries in Sindh

S.No University Library Location Librarians

grade

Total

Collection

Total

Human

resources

Status of

Automation

Daily

visits of

users

01 Sindh University Library Jamshoro 18 356,,000 80 F.A 1000

02 Sindh Agriculture

University Library

Tandojam 18 180,000 16 N.A 200

03 Liaqat Universityo of

Health and Medical

Sciences Library

Jamshoro 17 96000 21 P.A 1700

04 Dawood College of

Engineering and

Technology Library

Karachi 17 50,000 12 N.A 100

05 Institute of Business

Administration Library

do 17 54000 22 F.A 200

204

06 Chandka Medical Library Larkana 17 150,000 10 N.A 200

07 Shah Abdul Latif

University Library

Khairpur 18 82000 40 N.A 2000

08 Nadirshaw Edulji

Dinshaw (NED)

University of Engineering

and Technology Library

Karachi 18 15000 10 F.A 1000

09 IBA Library Sukkar 17 20,000 04 P.A 120

10 Karachi University

Library

Karachi 20 350,000 135 F.A 2000

11 Mehran University of

Engineering and

Technology Library

Jamshoro 19 80,000 ---- F.A 700

12 Pakistan Navel Academy Karachi 17 25000 08 F.A 30

Overview of the use of public sector university libraries in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

S.No University Library Location Librarians

grade

Total

Collection

Total

Human

resources

Status of

Automation

Daily

visits of

users

01 Agriculture University

Library

Peshawar 20 110,367 20 F.A 3500

02 Malakand University

Library

Dir 17 14,000 04 N.A 200

03 Frontier Women

University Library

Peshawar 17 5000 03 P.A 100

04 Islamia College University

Library

do 18 90,000 13 P.A 300

05 Khyber Medical

University Library

do 18 42,000 10 P.A 270

06 Bannu University Library Bannu 17 17,000 04 N.A 400

07 University of Engineering

and Technology

Peshawar 18 150,000 14 P.A 270

205

University

08 Institute of Management

Sciences Library

do 17 55000 04 P.A 150

09 Abdul Wali Khan

University Library

Mardan 17 20,000 05 N.A 500

10 Gomal University Library D.I.Khan 18 42500 12 N.A 650

11 Peshawar University

Library

Peshawar 19 161716 35 F.A 200

12 Hazara University Library Mansehra 17 60,000 12 P.A 900

13 Kohat University Library Kohat 17 20,000 06 P.A 500

Overview of the use of public sector university libraries in Balochistan

S.No University Library Location Librarians

grade

Total

Collection

Total

Human

resources

Status of

Automation

Daily

visits of

users

01 University of Balochistan

Library

Quetta 20 200,000 26 P.A 1200

02 Lasbela Agriculture

University Library

Lasbela 17 40,000 04 N.A 200

03 Sardar Bahadur Khan

University Library

Quetta 17 12000 04 P.A 150

04 Balochistan University of

Information Technology

Library

do 17 15000 03 N.A 100

05 Balochistan University of

Engineering and

Technology Library

Khuzdar 18 25000 08 N.A 350