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The development of computerised library services in Pakistan: A review of the literature

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Computer technology in libraries has revolutionised the concept of rapid and accurate information services. In Pakistan, though, computer technology is new and is being successfully introduced in all types of libraries and information centres. This article reviews the literature on the use of computers in Pakistan’s libraries. The literature includes monographs, journal articles, reports, etc. published inside and outside Pakistan, discussing information technology, specific library applications, the activities of individual libraries and automation education. The need for library automation and the problems faced by Pakistani professionals in this respect are also discussed.
... The higher education sector plays a significant role in shaping student satisfaction across the majority of developed and developing countries (Ikram and Kenayathulla, 2022a). Pakistani universities encounter many challenges in systematizing their operations and services, according to Riaz (1990) and Mahmood (1999). He identified the following characteristics as significant barriers: insufficient planning, lack of proficiency with computers, lack of a digital library, retroactive transformation, absence of quality standards, an overly complex setup, and technological deficiencies. ...
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Purpose The primary purpose is to examine the impact between education quality (EQ) and student satisfaction (SS) in terms of instructional materials, support, classroom facilities and equipment, and growth in Pakistani private higher education institutes. Design/methodology/approach This study utilized correlation-focused quantitative research by randomly distributing a 54-item questionnaire to 440 postgraduate students in Pakistan’s private higher education institutions (HEIs). SPSS (V.23) and PLS-SEM (V.3.3.3) were employed to investigate the data. Findings The findings demonstrate that EQ has a direct and significant positive effect on student satisfaction with instructional materials, support, classroom facilities and equipment, and growth in private higher education institutions. Research implications The current study will help policymakers, the Higher Education Commission (HEC), and institutions to pay greater attention to the significance of education quality indicators in making a difference in higher education, which may contribute to student satisfaction. In addition, their efforts will significantly contribute to the nation’s progress. Furthermore, it will contribute to the betterment of the world by accomplishing the sustainable development goal of quality education set by the United Nations. The recent findings will also have far-reaching advantages for society, demonstrating the positive effects that high-quality education may have on a nation’s progress by creating competent and productive students. Limitations Only private universities in Pakistan’s higher education sector were considered for this study, and students enrolled in post-graduate degrees were the subjects of this investigation. This study was restricted to testing in only one province, Punjab, Pakistan. Another limitation of this study is that it is based on a research framework deduced from previous underpinnings and literature. Originality These findings contribute to the existing area of research on the direct and significant effects of EQ on SS in HEIs. These findings may positively impact student satisfaction in private higher education institutions. The findings can guide higher education institutions (HEIs) regarding the importance of EQ in achieving desirable student satisfaction (SS). Because the Higher Education Commission (HEC) efforts will contribute considerably to the growth of higher education institutions (HEIs) and the nation, this study is vital for policymakers and practitioners working in higher education.
... The libraries of the "Lahore University of Management Sciences," the "Agha Khan University Library" and the "National Agricultural Research Center" considered early automation in Pakistan. Mahmood (1999) claimed that during the 1990s, the "Netherlands Library Development Project" was involved in the implementation of modern information technology in Pakistan. According to Mahmood Malik (1996), international agencies including "United Nations Educational," "Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)," "World Health Organization," "United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization" and "International Atomic Energy Agency" all played very vital roles in the history of library automation in Pakistan. ...
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Abstract Purpose: The aim of the study was to investigate the use of software for the automation of academic libraries in Sialkot. The present study consisted of three objectives, including recognizing the reasons to adopt the software for library automation, investigating the problems faced by librarians while using library software, and identifying the satisfaction level with the attributes of library software. Methods: A quantitative research approach was used to achieve the objectives of the study. A survey was conducted to collect data from the library information science professionals working in the academic libraries of Sialkot. The data was collected from 46 library professionals through a structured questionnaire. Findings: The findings showed that the economic cost of implementation, maintenance, and the software providing multilingual support were the major reasons for adoption of software for the purpose of automation. In this study compliance with the internet, non-cooperation in library automation by university/institution, availability of training facilities, insufficient library budget, a lack of financial/economic resources, staff transfer, and a lack of consultancy and technical service were identified as major issues, when using library automation software. However, the respondents were quite satisfied with the performance of software attributes including circulation modules, easy to use cataloguing modules, reports’ modules, software attributes of administration modules, and multi-lingual facility. Research/implications: This study persuades LIS professionals to automate their libraries through the adoption of library software.
... Since the advent of technology in the early nineties, academic libraries have witnessed a rapid transformation of traditional academic and cultural materials from libraries, archives, and museums to digital formats (Khan et al. 2017;Mahmood 1999;Warraich and Ameen 2008). In the digital formats, the digital asset subsystem includes a computer platform and a server, and a data management subsystem includes a data management platform and server used to collect disparate data into a standardized dataset (Caputo et al. 2019a;Roknuzzaman and Umemoto 2009). ...
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Leveraging a knowledge management model (KMM), organizing digital resources, and measuring performance beyond digital libraries continue to be hot topics for many organizations. Given its growing importance, the aim of this study was to design a robust integrated research model based on social cognitive theory and KMM to organize resources and improve the productivity of academic librarians to make services effective. Using a quantitative method based on key data collected by librarians at Pakistani universities, the researchers reviewed previously published literature and sought expert opinions to develop a research tool. The authors distributed 350 printed questionnaires to professionals from 190 universities, of which 339 were returned. These were analyzed to test the hypotheses and assess the accuracy of the measurement and structural models. After undergoing rigorous statistical analysis, the seven constructs using Social Cognitive Theory and the Knowledge Management Model have proven to be suitable for digital asset integration, employee productivity measurement, and high-quality academic services. In addition, the model based on social cognitive theory supports the application of KMM to promote knowledge culture, resource organization, and successful integration and innovation of academic services by enhancing the technical and professional skills of staff in academic institutions
... Ramzan (2004b) observed that developing nations were not prepared to embrace the changes forced on them by new technologies; and that most of them were uncertain about ICT applications in their area of specialization and benefits for their organizations, because they had little knowledge of ICT. The problems associated with this lack of knowledge are also discussed by various researchers (Mahmood and Khan, 2007;Saeed et al., 2000;Mahmood, 1999;Haider, 1998). Due to the role of technology in the advancement of society in general and the aviation sector in particular, effective technology integration in the airport and aircraft docking has become the focus of many aviators. ...
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This study examines the acceptance of Visual Docking Guidance System (VDGS) by Ground Marshallers in Nigeria’s airport, with the increasing volume of air traffic worldwide and the need for information technological development, it has become essential to develop and adopt systems that will efficiently manage the ground movement of aircraft for docking in the airport; this is needed to improve safety, turnaround time and operational efficiency. The study is a descriptive research and the sampling technique is purposive in nature. The research covered twenty (20) respondents (Ground Marshallers) in Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), and Ilorin International Airport, Kwara state, Nigeria. The small number of sample size was because the device is not installed in most of the airports in Nigeria. The study found that there is an association between the Ground Marshals’ awareness about ICT and their opinion that technological change will cause a threat in ground marshalling job; there is also an association between the education level of the Ground Marshals and their likely acceptance of VDGS; and there is an association between the Ground Marshals’ knowledge of ICT and the likely acceptance VDGS. Ground Marshals should have in-depth understanding of ICT so as to minimize their beliefs on technophobia and prepare for the fast approaching Fourth Industrial Revolution where there will be full digitization, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT).
... Sharif (2006) penned an article on library co-operation through resource sharing and highlighted the importance and procedures for a better perception of resource sharing. Mahmood (1999) The term and practice of resource sharing has its historical background in the seventeenth century, reportedly the first organized effort of resource sharing was made by a French humanist, Nicolas Claude. Stuart-Stubbs (1975) tried to arrange for the interlibrary lending of manuscripts between the Royal Library in Paris, the Vatican and Barberini libraries in Rome in 1634. ...
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Resource sharing is a functional as well as financial need of any library. In this modern era of information technology while information explosion is at extreme, it is impossible for a library to cover the entire surface of available knowledge. Developed countries are actual beneficiaries of this practice where idea of resource sharing has been transformed into a formal practice. Developing South Asian countries are also working on this concept in order to adopt it as a practice. This study identified the resource sharing opportunities for medical teaching libraries in Lahore with reference to perception and willingness. The sample of this study encompassed 26 leading medical libraries of all public and private degree awarding institutions in Lahore, Pakistan. The survey research method was adopted for this study. Findings showed that resource sharing is a valuable practice. It enhances the level of user satisfaction. It adds value to library collections which is not limited to library books only. Libraries are willing to initiate resource sharing through creating union catalogues. This study could be applied to all medical libraries in Pakistan to develop a real time formal resource sharing network which would accelerate performance reaming in limited financial resources.
... Isibika and Kavishe (2018) emphasized librarians' training on technological skills in cataloging and managing databases, designing websites and improving customer capabilities to use database resources better. In addition, Mahmood (1999) emphasized the recommendations of international agencies such as the Asian Fund, the United States Agency for International Development, and the International Development Research Center of Canada and the Netherlands, emphasizing the importance of technology adoption. Besides the above primary purposes, the HEC digital library offers services such as shifting of PhD theses to National Library of Pakistan, CCS, preservation of newspapers for 10 years, preservation of backdated volumes of journals and catalogs in publication. ...
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Purpose Digital libraries promote and accelerate scientific research in academic institutions. The subscribed database resources of digital libraries have become an increasingly valuable asset for researchers. Database resources help generate new ideas, determine research directions and promote productive academic interaction between teachers and students in the information age. The purpose of this study is to examine the use of electronic resources by students in various databases, the research productivity of the faculty in the science network and the number of students who graduate each year. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a quantitative method to collect secondary data from the central database of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) for the population of 26 universities for 2 years (2015–2016). In addition to the HEC digital library, data was also collected from the Web of Science to determine the quality academic performance of faculty and researchers. Moreover, in the study, the total strength of teaching staff and doctoral faculty was extracted from the HEC website for investigation. The authors applied the Spearman’s correlation test to the secondary data using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 25. Findings The correlation results of the enrolled students and the downloaded papers from various databases were statistically insignificant ( p > 0.05). However, the result showed a positive correlation ( p < 0.05) between the use of selected/known databases from a number of databases accessed by the HEC. More importantly, it turns out that the faculty’s productivity in the scientific network and the number of students who graduated from public and private universities are found to be insignificant ( p > 0.05). However, the authors found a positive correlation ( p < 0.05) between doctoral and non-doctoral faculties, which show that a significant number of non-doctoral faculties are still actively involved in teaching and research. Originality/value Research based on academic activities by faculties and students, performed for the first time on the basis of secondary data, will help the HEC and university management to determine the right direction and develop plans to improve academic performance and research quality.
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In a rapidly changing world, the perception to adapt to change is inexplicable and a constant as well. There is virtually the possibility of upturning many assumptions such like the issue of marketing library information services (LIS) which many libraries/librarians deemed to be unsellable. The scope of marketing in itself is evolving and portray different connotations; to different personalities. The marketing of LIS is an ongoing project determined to give the customer a place of pride in terms of providing much needed satisfaction. This is because the whole essence of library and information set up is to serve the clientele also referred to as the king, or the master. Most library staff of developing countries have low compliance level to change or innovation especially as it pertains to ICT and use of modern gadgets in performing their duties. All these could be linked to the lack of skills/ knowledge needed to handle the sufisticated facilities. There's no doubt that some of the Librarians are well equipped in terms of ICT compliance level, but there is urgent need to train vast majority of the others who are lagging behind.
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Purpose The purpose of this study is to investigate the key features of information management systems (IMSs) for automation in university libraries. This study also highlights the use of library information management systems in university libraries and the satisfaction of university librarians in using various IMS. Design/methodology/approach This study is quantitative in nature. A survey research method has been applied to achieve the research objectives. Purposive sampling has been used to select the targeted population which consisted of 157 librarians working in university libraries. Data were collected through a web-based questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied to analyze the collected data by using SPSS software. Findings Free and open source software are widely used in university libraries to manage the bibliographic information of library material. KOHA is the most used software for library automation in university libraries of Pakistan. The key features of library information management system (IMS) include reliability and security of the software, user-friendly interface, advance searching options, use of library standards (MARC, Uni MARC, RDA), online upgradation, technical support of developing company, shared cataloging, multilingual features of software, etc (See Figure 4). The study recommends that the above-mentioned features must be considered by university librarians when selecting any software for library automation. Results showed that apart from the use of KOHA software, there are also some other software which are being used for library automation in university libraries of Pakistan. These systems include; Virtua, Library Management System (LMS), and Library Information Management Systems (LIMSs). Practical implications This study has practical implications for university librarians in Pakistan as well as in other countries. Librarians can use the results of this study as a blueprint before selecting any information management system to automate the library record. Originality/value This study identifies the core features of IMS for automation in libraries. These features have been recommended by informational professionals who have been working in automated libraries and possess adequate professional experience in using library automation software.
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This study intended to investigate the current situation of research support resources and services offered by the university libraries of Pakistan. Quantitative research design using a survey method was adopted to conduct the proposed research. The data were collected form head librarians working in university libraries of Punjab using a questionnaire. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were applied for data analysis using SPSS. A large majority of university libraries provide access to online and printed information resources to support research activities of library users along with a conducive learning environment. A good number of libraries also provide specialized research services such as current awareness service (CAS), selective dissemination of information (SDI), information and research literacy instructions. Some libraries not only equip library users with specialized research tools (e.g. citation management software, data analysis software) but also manage research training programs such as citation management, avoiding plagiarism, data analysis, academic writing, developing research proposals, conducting online surveys, etc. to enhance information and research literacy of library users. This study painted a gloomy picture about the current state of research support services and facilities provided in the university libraries especially from public sector as most of the libraries do not provide state of the art research support services. The capacity of library staff needs to be built with regard to modern tools and skills so that they may be able to provide need-based and state of the art reference and research support services at university libraries in Pakistan.
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