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
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
II
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…...... ……………………
III
DEDICATION
To my little
LATE SON
TALHA SAEED KHAN
WHOM I LOST DURING THE COURSE OF THIS STUDY
IV
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
V
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
LC Library of Congress
LCD Liquid Crystal Display
LAN Local Area Network
VI
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.
VII
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
VIII 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
IX Saeed. Without their prayers, sacrifice, patience and support, the completion of this work would not have been possible.
X
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
XI 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
XII 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
XIII 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
XIV 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
XV
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
XVI 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
XVII 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
XVIII 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
XIX 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 .
XX 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
1 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.
2 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
3 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
4 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;
5 • 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
6 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.
7
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.
8 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.
9 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:
10
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.
11 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?
12 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
13 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
14 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;
15 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
16 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,
17 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,
18 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.
19 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.
20 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
21 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.
22
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.
23 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
24 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
25 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.
26 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
27 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
28 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
29 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
30 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
31 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
32 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
33 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
34 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
35 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.
36 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
37 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.
38 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
39 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.
40 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.
41 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
42 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
43 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
44 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,
45 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.
46 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.
47
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;
48 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
49 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
50 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
51 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
52 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.
53 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
54 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
55 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.
56 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.
57 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
58 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.
59 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
60 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
61 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.
62
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
63
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.
64
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
65
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,
66
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,
67
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.
68
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
69
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
70
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
71
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.
72
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.
73
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,
74
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
75
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
76
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,
77
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,
78
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
79
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
80
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.
81
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%)
82
______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
83
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.
84
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
85
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
86
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
87
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.
88
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
89
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%)
90
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
91
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.
92
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
93
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.
94
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,
95
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.
96
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%)
97
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
98
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.
99
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
100
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
101
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.
102
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
103
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
104
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
105
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.
106
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
107
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).
108
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;
109
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.
110
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
111
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
112
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.
113
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
114
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
115
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 ______
116
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.
117
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.
118
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
119
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.
120
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).
121
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
122
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.
123
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.
124
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
125
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
126
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.
127
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.
128
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.
129 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.
130
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 131
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). 132
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- 133
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. 134
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, 135
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.
136
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 137
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: 138
- 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 139
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. 140
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. 141
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 142
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.
143
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. 144
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. 145
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 146
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.
147
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Abbot, Wendy & Mark Sutherland. (2008) Transforming the library for the new millennium. Presented at the VALA2008 14th Biennial Conference and Exhibition, 5-7 February, Melbourne, Australia. Available at: http://www.valaconf.org.au/vala2008/papers2008/54 Abbott Final.pdf
Abubakar, Bappah Magaji (2011). Academic libraries in Nigeria in the 21st Century .Library Philosophy and Practice. Retrieved from: http://www.webpages.uidaho.edu/~mbolin/abubakar.htm
Adegbore, A.M (2010). Automation in two Nigerian university libraries. Library Philosophy and Practice. Retrieved from: http://www.webpages.uidaho.edu/~mbolin/adegbore.pdf
Ajmal Khan, Muhammad and Khalid Mahmood (2010). A study of the usefulness of Pakistan Library Automation Group's (PakLAG) services. Library Philosophy and Practice. Retrieved from: http://unllib.unl.edu/LPP/khan-mahmood.htm
Ahmad, Pervez and Mohd Yaseen (2009). The role of library and information science professionals as manager: a comparative analysis. Electronic Journal of Academic and Special Librarianship. 10(3). http://southernlibrarianship.icaap.org/content/v10n03/ahmadpo1.html
Ahsan, Muhammad. (2009). Digital divide and digitization initiatives in Pakistan :a bird’s eye view. Nuova Cultura. p. 515 Retrieved from: http://conferences.aepic.it/index.php/elpub2009/paper/v iewfile/78/34
Aina, L.O (2004). Coping with the challenges of library and information delivery services: the need for institutionalized professional development. Nigerian 148
Library Association Conference Proceedings, p.4
Ali, Amjad, (2005). Digital libraries in making. New Delhi. Ess Ess Publications.p.419
Al-Qalaf, Charlene L. (2006). Librarians and technology in academic and research libraries in Kuwait: perceptions and effects. Libri, vol. 56, 168– 179
Ameen, Kanwal (2008). Barriers in collection sharing among libraries of Pakistan: university library managers’ viewpoint. LIBRES Library and Information Science Research Electronic Journal, 18( 1). Retreived from: http://www.webpages.uidaho.edu/~mbolin/ameen.html
Ameen, Kanwal (2008). Issues of book acquisition in university libraries: a case study of Pakistan. Library Philosophy and Practice. Retrieved from: http://www.webpages.uidaho.edu/~mbolin/ameen.html
Ansari, Munira Nasreen and Bushra Adeeb Zuberi. (2010). Use of electronic resources among academics at the University of Karachi. Library Philosophy and Practice Retreived from: http://www.webpages.uidaho.edu/~mbolin/ansari-zuberi.pdf
Anwar, Mumtaz, A. (1992). Use of information technology in the libraries of Pakistan. Pakistan Library Association Journal, No.13 (August-1992). 17- 19.
Arif, Muhammad & Khalid Mahmood. (2012). The changing role of librarians in the digital world: adoption of Web 2.0 technologies in Pakistani libraries. The electronic library, 30(4). Retrieved from: Error! Hyperlink reference not valid. 149
Awuku, Ohene Sakyi ( 1995). Productivity in university libraries of developing countries: a West and Southern African perspective. Library Management, 16(3): 24-33. Bhattacharya, Partha (2003). Digital information services: challenges and opportunities. Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer: Delhi, 2-9
Bansode, Sadanand Y. & Shamin Periera (2008). A survey of library automation in college libraries in Goa State, India. Library Philosophy and Practice. 1-7. Retrieved from: http://www.webpages.uidas.edu/~moblin/bansode- periera.htm
Barlow, Lisa J. and Margaret E.Graham. (1999). The use of information and communication technologies in commercial libraries in the UK. program. Electronic Library and Information Systems.33 ( 2), 109-128
Bavakutty, M, Muhammad Salih T.K.,et.al. (2006). Research on library computerization. New Delhi: Ess Ess publications. p.19
Bello, A.S. (2003). Library user education evaluation at the Ibadan Polytechnic. Nigerian Library and Information Science Review, 21(1):1-6.
Bhatti, Rubina (2010). Internet use among faculty members in the changing higher education environment at the Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Pakistan. Library Philosophy and Practice Available: http://www.webpages.uidaho.edu/~mbolin/bhatti3.pdf
Boss R.W. (2003). RFlD technology for libraries. Library technology report 39(6).
Bruce, C. S. (1994). Supervising literature reviews, in Zuber-Skerritt, O. and 150
Ryan, Y.(eds), Quality in postgraduate education. London: Kogan Page , 217- 229. [Online]. Retrieved from: http://www.deakin.edu.au/library/findout/research/litrev.php
Butler, M. (1995). Envisioning the libraries in the year 2000. Library Update Fall, 1-2
Candela, L. et al (2008). The DELOS Digital Library Reference Model - Foundations for digital libraries. Version 0.98,
Chand, Kuldip(ed) (1993). Current trends in information technology: its impact on information scene in India. New Delhi: Batra.
Chandra, Ramesh and A.P Shrivastara ed.( 2003|). Technological changes in libraries. Delhi: Kalmpus Publications.
Chepesuik, R. (1997).The future is here: America’s libraries go digital. American Libraries, 27(1); 47-49.
Chethana, M., & Smith (2007). Influence of digital technology on information
users: an analytical study. Pearl: A Journal of Library and Information
Science. 1(3). P.1
Chowdhury, Salma (2001). Role of college libraries in education of Bangladesh. Social Science Review, 18(2), 287-296.
Chinwe v. Anunobi (2008). The role of academic libraries in universal access to print and electronic resources in the developing countries. Library Philosophy and Practice. Available at : http://unllib.unl.edu/LPP/anunobi-okoye.htm
151
Chinwe v. Anunobi (2010). Use of ICT facilities for serials functions in Southern Nigerian federal university libraries. Library Philosophy and Practice. Retrieved from: http://unllib.unl.edu/LPP/anunobi-okoye.htm
Chrishantha Dilroshan, T.L (2006 ). Identification of problems faced by university libraries in the process of automation: with special reference to the libraries of Moratuwa and Colombo Universities. Sri Lanka Journal of Librarianship and Information Management, 1(2), 82-98.
Chu, S., K., W (2009). Ageism in Academic Librarianship. The Journal of Academic Librarianship, 35 (2), 170–176.
Cleveland, Gary (March 1998). Digital libraries: definitions, issues and challenges. International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions”.UDT Occasional Paper#8.
Coyle,Karen (2004).Rights management and digital library requirements .Ariadne .Issue 40
Cholin, Veeranna S.(2005). Study of the application of information technology for effective access to resources in Indian university libraries. Library Review,189-197
Das, R.S. (2008). Library automation and information technology. New Delhi: Arise Publishers, 221-223
Ding, Choo Ming(1996). Assessing the impact of IT on university library services in the 21st Century. Malaysian Journal of Library and Information Science, 1(2) , 79-87 Dissanayake, B.G. (1995). A study of automation of university libraries in Sri 152
Lanka.Unpublished MLS thesis. University of Colombo.
Doty, Phillip and R.E Wyllys. (2001).Information technologies and the information professions: overview of OPACs. School of Information, University of Texas. slides 14-31
Frenzel, E.Louis, Jr.(1999). Crash course in artificial intelligence and expert systems, Indianpoli, H.W.Sams.X,358pp. Fons Wijnhoven, Jeroen Kraaijenbrink (2008). Product-oriented design theory for digital information services: a literature review, Internet Research, 18( 1), 93 - 120
Gibbs,Frobes.(1992). Bibliography on the application of expert systems, artificial intelligence and natural language processing in the library and information sciences, 1978-1992. Expert systems for information management, 4(3), 143-220
Gopinath, S., Pathak, A., Kumar, M., & Sreekumar, M.G (2001). Fourth generation libraries: from independence to interdependence. In: R.L. Raina & I.V Malhan (Eds), Proceedings of the 3rd National Convention of Management Libraries Network (MANLIBNET): Lucknow, 31-32.
Gertz, Janet. (2000). Selection for preservation in the digital age. Library Resources & Technical Services. 44(2):97-104.
Gopal, Krishan .(2003). Impact of information technology services in libraries. Delhi: Authors Press, 47-64
Graff, Mauritius V.D (2007). Driver: Seven items on a European agenda for digital libraries .Ariande.Issue 53.
153
Haider, Syed Jala-ud-Din (2007). Library management scenario & management problems in Pakistani libraries. Library Administration & Management. 21(4), Fall 2007. 173-176.
Hanifa K, Mohammad (2006). Computerization of university libraries. Ess Ess Publications.New Delhi P.50
Higher Education Commission, Islamabad. Retrieved from : www.hec.gov.pk (Accessed on 09/06/2010)
Hans-Chritoph, Hobohm, (1996). The impact of new technology on libraries: an introductory note. Paper delivered at the Open Session of the Section Social Science Libraries at the 62nd IFLA General Conference at Beijing , 27 August. Available at: http//:forge.fh-potsdam.de/~IFLA/62-hobh.htm
Hopkinson, Alan (2010). Library automation in developing countries: last 25 years. Information development, 25(4), 304-312. Available at http://idv.sagepub.com/content/25/4/304.abstract Accessed on 12/07/2010
Hussain, Ashfaq, Khalid Mahmood & Farzana Shafiq (2008). Perception of LIS professionals about digital libraries in Pakistan: the Pakistani perspective. Electronic Journal of Academic and Special Librarianship,9(1),1
Hussain, Mushahid (1994). Effectiveness of NLDP's activities towards the development of library profession in Pakistan. University of Balochistan.
Ifidon, Sam E., Okoli, Godwin N., (2002). 40 Years of academic and research library service to Nigeria: past, present, and future. Paper presented at the 40th Nigerian Library Association, ASCON, Badagry, 22-33. 154
Koneru, Indira. (2004). RFID technology: a revolution in library management. IN: Proceedings of the Second International CALIBER on Road Map to New Generation of Libraries Using Emerging Technologies, Feb 11-13, New Delhi. Ahmedabad, INFLIBNET Centre, 414. Available at: http://icfaiuniversity.academia.edu/Indirakoneru/Papers/81074/RFID Technology A Revolution in Library Management
Jan, Saeed ullah & Rafia A Sheikh (2009). Use and impact of digital technology on library services and resources in the public sector universities of N- W.F.P. Paper presented at 6th Pakistan Library Science Conference held at Baragali Abbotabad, Jun28-July 02.
Jan , Saeed ullah & Rafia A. Sheikh (2011). Automation of University Libraries: a comparative analysis of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Islamabad, Pakistan. Library Philosophy and Practice,USA, July issue. Available at: http://www.webpages.uidadho.edu/~moblin/jan-sheikh.htm
Jan, Saeed ullah & Rafia A. Sheikh (2011). HEC Digital Library: an overview. Microeconomics: Search; Learning; Information Costs & Specific Knowledge; Expectation & Speculation, New York: 2(149), September issue.
Jaswal, Bushra Almas (2005). Impact of digital technology on library resource sharing: revisiting LABELNET in the digital age. Pakistan Journal of Library & Information Science, 7, 87-104
Johnson, J. S. (1991). Computerizing information systems in developing countries: keys to sustainable development. Pakistan Library Bulletin, 22(3),22-30.
155
Kamath V A (1983). Evaluation of information technology: an overview. IASLIC Bulletin. 28(4), 178
Kanamadi, Satish & B.D. Kumbar (2007). Impact of information technology innovations on resources and services of management institute libraries in Mumbai: a librarian’s approach. Electronic Journal of Academic and Special Librarianship. 8(1), 9
Jain,M,K,Ed. (1998). From printed bibliographies to online databases: role of library networks. IN: 50 Years Library and Information Services in India, Jain, M.K,ed. Delhi: Shipra Publications.
Keralapura, M. (2009). Technology and customer expectation in academic libraries: a special reference to technical/management libraries in Karnataka. The International Information and Library Review , 41 (3), 184-195.
Kelapure, Rohit (2003). Scenario- based generation of digital library services. Master of Science Thesis. Virginia Polytechnic Institute. 8-15.
Khan, Najaf Ali (1995). Information technology in the university of Pakistan- stresses and strains. Pakistan Library Bulletin XXVI (1), 6-11.
Khan, Noor Shed and David Bowden (2005). Community informatics in libraries in Pakistan: current status, future prospects. New Library World. 106 ( 11/12), 532 – 540
Kindiluchi, Amer I. and Iman F. Samarraie (2008). Interaction and impact of electronic information resources on Qatar University Faculty. Libri. Vol.58, 281- 293. Available: http://www.librijournal.org/pdf/20084pp281- 293.pdf
156
Kumbargoudar, Praveen Kumar. (1999). Application of artificial intelligence techniques to library and information science. ILA Bulletin, 34 (3-4), 55- 59 Kuruppu Arachchi, Theja & De Silva (2007). Library automation: strategies for library human resource management. Journal of the University Librarians, vol II
Lam, K.T (2001). School library automation. presented at In-Services Training Course for Teacher-Librarians. Retrieved from: http://ihome.ust.hk/~lblkt/libauto/libauto.html
Leedy, P. (1993). Practical research: planning and design. New York: Macmillan, 150-151
Lichtenberg, Jarnes. (2003). Industry explores viability of RFID. Publishers Weekly, 205(46), 2-3. Retrieved March 7, 2004, from EBSCO Academy search elite.
Leiner, B.M. (1998). The NCSTRL approach to open architecture for the confederated digital library. D-Lib Magazine. Retieved from: www.dlib.org/dlib/december98/ leiner / 12l einer.html
Li, Lili (2009). Emerging Technologies for Academic Libraries in the Digital Age, Oxford, Chandos. Luambano, p.308
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.
Lynch, C.A.(1998). Identifiers and their role in networked information 157
applications. Feliciter, January 1998, 31-35
Marcum, James W. (2003). Visions: the academic library in 2012. D-Lib Magazine , 9 (5) , p.2
Malik, Khalid Mahmood (1995). Status of library automation in Pakistan. Pakistan Library Bulletin(PLB) XXVI (1), 307-328
Malik, Khalid Mahmood and Muhammad Ajmal Khan (2007). ICT training for LIS professionals in Pakistan: a needs assessment program. Electronic Library and Information Systems, 41( 4), 418 – 427.
Manujunath, GK and Pujar SM. (2002). Barcoding of library documents: planning, techniques and tools. Annals of Library and Information Studies.49 (4), p.119
McQuail, D (2000). McQuail's Mass Communication Theory .4th ed. London: Sage, 16-34.
Mirza, Muhammad Sajid & Khalid Mahmood. (2009). Web based services in university libraries: a Pakistani perspective. Library Philosophy and Practice, p.1. Available at: http//:www.webpages.uidaho.edu/~mbolin/mirza-mahmood.htm
Mulla, K, R. (2006). E-resources and services in Engineering College Libraries – a case study. Electronic Journal of Academic and Special Librarianship, 7(1)
Nair, R Raman. (1992). Computer application to library and information services. New Delhi: Ess Ess Publications, 236-7
158
Nok , Grace. (2006). The challenges of computerizing a university library in Nigeria: the case of Kashim Ibrahim Library, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Library Philosophy and Practice. Available at: http://www.webpages.uidaho.edu/~mbolin/nok.htm
Norton, Peter (2006). Introduction to computers. 7th ed. New Delhi, Tata McGraw Hill Education Private Limited..p.258
Onlude, O.O and O.R Apmama (2010). Effects of information and communication technology on research and development activities: The FIIRO Experience. Library Philosophy and Practice. Available : http://www.webpages.uidaho.edu/~mbolin/onilude-apampa.pdf
Parida, B. (2004). Emergence of digital library services in India, Paper to 2nd International CALIBER-2004,New Delhi, 11-13 February ,2004. Available at: http://ir.inflibnet.ac.in/dxml/bitstream/handle/1944/334/04cali 26.pdf?sequence
Praveen Kumar, Mamta Mestri and S Pararmeshwar (2006). Development of digital libraries in India:socio-economic problems and prospects. A Paper presented at 4th Convention Planner at Mirozoram University, Ahmedabad.
Poll, Roswitha (2005). Measuring the impact of new library services. World Library and Information Congress. 71st IFLA General Conference and Council “Libraries-A voyage of discovery”. Oslo( Norway), August 14th- 18th 2005. University Available at: http://archive.ifla.org/1V/ifla71/papers/081e- poll.pdf
159
Qutab, Saima & Khalid Mahmood (2009). Library web sites in Pakistan: an analysis of the content. Program: electronic library and information systems,, 43(4), 430-445.
Ramzan, Muhammad and Singh Diljit (2009). Status of information technology applications in Pakistani libraries. Electronic Library. 27(4), 573-587
Ranganathan, S.R (1940). Reference service and bibliography. Madras: Madras Library Association, p.25
Raziuddin, Munawar Sultana (2004). Digital libraries. Pakistan Library and
Information Science Journal (PLISJ). 35 (2).
Rosenberg, D. (1997) University libraries in Africa: a review of their current state and future potential. vol. I, London: International African Institute.
Riaz, Mohammed (1991). Library automation: an introductory text. Islamabad: Ebsco Subscription Services, 65-66
Rowley, JE. (1988). Computers for libraries. London: Clive Bingley, p.163
Saeed , Hamid & Muhammad Asghar (2000). Internet use in university libraries in Pakistan. Online information review,24( 2), 154-160
Said, Amina (2006). Accessing electronic information: a study of Pakistan’s digital library.International Network for the Availability of Scientific Publications (INASP): Oxford, 8-52. Available at: http://www.inasp.info/uploaded/documents/access-info-SAID.pdf
Sambasivan, K. (2000). Investigating library resources: problems and prospects in the internet age. New Delhi: Ess Ess publications,p186
Shafiullah, Farasat and Stephen A. Roberts (2010). Is ICT infrastructure capable 160
to accommodate standardized library management systems?: case studies of library automation from public sector universities in Islamabad (Pakistan). Technology, Policy and Innovation,273-280. Available at: http://crl.du.ac.in/ical09/papers/index files/ical-44 191 402 1 RV.pdf
Shafiq-ur-rehman, Ch. and Pervaiz Ahmad(2007) Challenges and opportunities for librarianship in Pakistan. Pakistan Library and Information Science Journal. 3(38),6-11. Can be retrieved from: http://eprints.rclis.org/handle/10760/10742#.TzYxp8XuqoU
Shariful Islam, M. and M. Nazmul Islam (2007). Use of ICT in libraries: an empirical study of selected libraries in Bangladesh. Library Philosophy and Practice. Available at :http://unllib.unl.edu/LPP/lpp2007.htm
Schmiede, Rudi (2004). Advancing digital libraries in Germany and creating distributed scientific resources. Telos Digital Libraries Working Group, vol 4,48-51
Shafiq, Farzana and Khalid Mahmood (2008). Integrated library software: a survey of Lahore. Library Hi Tech News, vol. 6, 6-13
Shaheen, M., A. (2008). Use of social networks and information seeking behaviour of students during political crises in Pakistan: a case study. The International Information & Library Review. vol.40, 142-147. Shah, S.A., Baig, S.M., & Azra Qureshi (2005). Digital library services and their impact with reference to a developing country: The case of Faculty of Health Sciences Library, Aga Khan University, 2005. In Health Sciences Research Assembly - 2005, Karachi (Pakistan), March 15 - 17,183-183. (published) [Conference Poster].
Sharma , Chetan & Goru Gobind Singh (2009). Use and impact of e-resources at Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University (India): a case study. Electronic Journal of Academic and Special Librarianship, v.10(1) 161
Smith, S.J. and Chethan M. (2007). Influence of digital technology on information users: an analytical study. Pearl: A Journal of Library and Information Science, 1( 3)
Taylor, Dena. (2005). The literature review: a few tips on conducting it. [Online].Available at http://www.utoronto.ca/writing/litrev.html(Date visited: 10.9.2008).
Tiwari, Aravind. (2002). Evaluation of electronic libraries. New Delhi: APH Publishing.299
Venkata Ramana P and Rao, V Chandrasekhar. (2003).Use of information technology in central university libraries of India. DESIDOC Bulletin of Information Technology. 23(2), p.31
Verma, Shivram (2005). Academic library system. New Delhi: Shree Publishers.
Viswanathan, C.G.(1986). Elements of information science and technology. Lucknow: Printhouse.
Von Cotta, Michael (1989). Automation and academic library structure. Libri, 39(1), 47-63.
Vyas, S.D (1997). Library Automation and Networking in India: problems and prospects. World Libraries. 8(1). Available at: http://www.worlib.org/vol08n01/vyas v08n1.shtml
Wijayarathne, Anusha. (2005). Automation of library functions with special reference to circulation system adopted at the Library of Open University of Sri Lanka. Journal of the University Librarians Association of Sri 162
Lanka .vol. 9, 21-22
Wilson, Louis R. and Maurice F. Tauber (1964). The University library: the organisation, administration, and functions of Academic Libraries 2nd ed. , New York: Columbia University Press, p.25
Young, Heartsill, Ed (1983). ALA Glossary of Library and Information Science, Chicago,: American Library Association, p.130
Zuberi, Shahnaz. (2007).Digital publishing: a new challenge for library. Pakistan Library and Information Science Journal, 38 (1).
http://www.answers.com/topic/smart-card-technology
http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1G2-3401801216.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smart_card
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smart_card#cite_note-16
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Library_acquisitions
www.hec.gov.pk
http://www.hec.gov.pk/eReforms/DigitalLibrary/Pages/welcome.aspx
http://www.hec.gov.pk/eReforms/PRR/Pages/Default.aspx http://ihome.ust.hk/~lblkt/libauto/libauto.html automation of library functions http://www.library.manchester.ac.uk/subjects/eps/ceas/awareness/
http://www.ndltd.org/
163
http://pakistanlibraries.org/about.php#ICT
http://www.sims.berkeley.edu/research/projects/how-much-info/summary.html
http://www.statpak.gov.pk/depts/fbs/statistics/social_statistics/social_statistics.ht http://www.thefreedictionary.com/camera
http://www.thefreedictionary.com/catalogue Accessed on 04/07/2010
http://www.theislamabad.com/history.html
http://www.wikipedia.org/wiki/digital-technology
http://www.wikipedia.org/wiki/digital/library
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_does_digits_mean
http://www.webopedia.com/TERM/C/computer.html
http://whatis.techtarget.com/definition/0,,sid9_gci212942,00.html
164
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.
165
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.
166
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. ……………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………......
167
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
168
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) ______
169
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
170
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 ______171 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 ……………………………………………………
172
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?
Sources/Grants Please(tick)
HEC/Government Trust Donations/Endowments Overdue Charges, Sale of old newspapers, Membership charges etc Any Other (Please specify)
18- Write down the total budget of the university library for the following financial years?
2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10
19- Write down the total budget for the Automation and Digitization Section of your Library.
173
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 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 material 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 ………………………………
174
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
175
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
176
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.
177
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 Accounting & Management 0 1 Electronic theft detection system
178
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 Library staff is required to 4 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
179
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 180
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 181
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
182
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
183
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
184
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 ______185
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 186
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 ______187
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 188
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 189
______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 190
□ 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
191
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. 192
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, 193
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 194 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.
195
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
196
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
197 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
198
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.
199
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
200
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 Total Total Status of Daily grade Collection Human Automation visits of resources users 01 Quaid-e-Azam University Islamabad 20 1,95,000 40 F.A 500 Library 02 Comsat Institute of do 19 65,000 20 F.A 1200 Information Technology 03 Federal Urdu University do 18 19000 06 F.A 480 Library 04 International Islamic do 20 200,000 82 F.A 3500 University Library 05 Air University Library do 17 15000 08 F.A 700 06 National University of do 20 115,000 30 F.A 550 Modern Languages Library 07 Institute of Space do SPS-8 5636 05 F.A 100 Technology Library 08 Bahria University Library do 17 18558 11 F.A 300 09 Pakistan Institute of do SPS-7 35000 12 F.A 700 Engineering and Applied Sciences Library 10 National College of Arts do 17 7000 05 P.A 75 Library 11 Centre for Applied Studies do 17 15000 06 F.A 230 in Engineering Library 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 Total Total Status of Daily grade Collection Human Automation visits resources users
201
01 Punjab University Library Lahore 20 500,000 123 F.A 900 02 University of Engineering do 19 115,000 48 F.A 800 and Technology Library 03 Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Rawalpindi 18 26955 09 P.A 230 Agriculture University Library 04 University of Education Lahore 19 17,000 04 F.A 60 Library 05 Lahore College for do 17 73000 08 P.A 100 Women University Library 06 National School of Public do 17 55,000 07 F.A 50 Policy Library 07 University of Veterinary do 17 30,000 21 F.A 250 and Animal Sciences Library 08 Kinnaird College for do 17 18558 07 P.A 500 Women University Library 09 University of Gujrat Gujrat 17 80,000 05 F.A 900 Library 10 Fathima Jinnah Women Rawalpindi 17 35000 07 P.A 450 University Library 11 National College of Arts Lahore 17 33,000 12 F.A 330 Library 12 King Edward Medical do 17 41,000 02 N.A 100 College Library 13 Islamia University Library Bahawalpur 19 150,000 100 P.A 2000 14 National University of Rawalpindi 18 10,000 14 F.A 360 Science and Technology Library 15 University of Health Lahore 16 50,000 05 P.A 300 Sciences Library
202
16 Govt. College University Lahore 20 307676 45 F.A 1000 Library 17 Agriculture University Faisalabad 17 246220 57 F.A 2500 Library 18 University of Engineering Taxila 20 55,000 05 P.A 250 and Technology Library
Overview of the use of public sector university libraries in Azad Jammu Kashmir & Northern Areas S.No University Library Location Librarians Total Total Status of Daily grade Collection Human Automation visits of resources users 01 University of Azad Muzafar 20 50651 08 P.A 260 Jammu and Kashmir Abad Library 02 Karrakurrum International Gilgit 18 4000 04 N.A 200 University
Overview of the use of public sector university libraries in Sindh S.No University Library Location Librarians Total Total Status of Daily grade Collection Human Automation visits of resources users 01 Sindh University Library Jamshoro 18 356,,000 80 F.A 1000 02 Sindh Agriculture Tandojam 18 180,000 16 N.A 200 University Library 03 Liaqat Universityo of Jamshoro 17 96000 21 P.A 1700 Health and Medical Sciences Library 04 Dawood College of Karachi 17 50,000 12 N.A 100 Engineering and Technology Library 05 Institute of Business do 17 54000 22 F.A 200 Administration Library
203
06 Chandka Medical Library Larkana 17 150,000 10 N.A 200 07 Shah Abdul Latif Khairpur 18 82000 40 N.A 2000 University Library 08 Nadirshaw Edulji Karachi 18 15000 10 F.A 1000 Dinshaw (NED) University of Engineering and Technology Library 09 IBA Library Sukkar 17 20,000 04 P.A 120 10 Karachi University Karachi 20 350,000 135 F.A 2000 Library 11 Mehran University of Jamshoro 19 80,000 ---- F.A 700 Engineering and Technology Library 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 Total Total Status of Daily grade Collection Human Automation visits of resources users 01 Agriculture University Peshawar 20 110,367 20 F.A 3500 Library 02 Malakand University Dir 17 14,000 04 N.A 200 Library 03 Frontier Women Peshawar 17 5000 03 P.A 100 University Library 04 Islamia College University do 18 90,000 13 P.A 300 Library 05 Khyber Medical do 18 42,000 10 P.A 270 University Library 06 Bannu University Library Bannu 17 17,000 04 N.A 400 07 University of Engineering Peshawar 18 150,000 14 P.A 270 and Technology
204
University 08 Institute of Management do 17 55000 04 P.A 150 Sciences Library 09 Abdul Wali Khan Mardan 17 20,000 05 N.A 500 University Library 10 Gomal University Library D.I.Khan 18 42500 12 N.A 650 11 Peshawar University Peshawar 19 161716 35 F.A 200 Library 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 Total Total Status of Daily grade Collection Human Automation visits of resources users 01 University of Balochistan Quetta 20 200,000 26 P.A 1200 Library 02 Lasbela Agriculture Lasbela 17 40,000 04 N.A 200 University Library 03 Sardar Bahadur Khan Quetta 17 12000 04 P.A 150 University Library 04 Balochistan University of do 17 15000 03 N.A 100 Information Technology Library 05 Balochistan University of Khuzdar 18 25000 08 N.A 350 Engineering and Technology Library
205