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Status of Library Software in Higher Education Institutions of Pakistan
Abstract
This study explored the status of library software being used in the libraries of higher education institutions (HEIs) of Pakistan. A quantitative survey method was used. The population of this study was central/main libraries of all HEIs of Pakistan recognized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC). A questionnaire was designed after review of literature to collect data. The questionnaire was sent to all head librarians. The findings reveal that majority of the libraries had started automation. The libraries of public and private sector institutions were not significantly different in automating their routines. The libraries were using a variety of software and Library Information Management System (LIMS), a free software was at the top in terms of number of users. Other popular software were WINISIS, Inmagic, Koha and VIRTUA. There were also examples of adoption of open source software. Majority of the libraries were doing automation in the absence of proper budget for software and allied activities. Similarly, libraries did not have up-gradation and training agreement with the software providers. The participant libraries reported the presence of cataloging, circulation, reports and OPAC modules in their software but most of the libraries did not mention the availability of modules like acquisition, serial and webopac. Software used by the libraries did not have national language support in most of the cases and ability to support regional languages was also negligible.
... The lack of infrastructural facilities is considered one of the important infrastructural factors that create difficulty for students in improving their learning and skills. These infrastructural facilities include poor infrastructure of workplaces (Shaikh & Khoja, 2011), poor physical school infrastructure (Lodhi & Zaman, 2012;Shahid, 2016), non-availability and up-gradation of library resources (Siddique & Mahmood, 2015), access and management of public resources (Chandio et al., 2019), insufficient infrastructural facilities such as user dissatisfaction for online sources (Arif et al., 2017). ...
... Economic instability is a barrier to the successful implementation of ICT in education (Dar et al., 2019;Lodhi & Zaman, 2012). Some other barriers to financial factors for ICT usage are under-funding (Shaikh & Khoja, 2011, high cost of ICT facilities (Chandio et al., 2019;Hussain, 2018;Shaikh & Khoja, 2011, budget constraints (Chandio et al., 2019;Siddique & Mahmood, 2015;Tunio et al., 2013). ...
... English literacy is a factor that is important to ICT usage in education but unfortunately, the students, especially primary students, prefer national or regional language learning material (M. U. Ahmed et al., 2018;Farid et al., 2015;Khan & Qutab, 2016;Rahim et al., 2017;Siddique & Mahmood, 2015). Hence, English literacy is a barrier for students to adopt ICT based learning solutions. ...
Information and communication technology (ICT) integration in the education sector plays an important role in the socio-economic growth of any country. The developing countries are facing hindrances in effective implementation of ICT in the education sector. Pakistan is one of the developing countries of Asia and facing challenges in ICT integration in the education sector. This study aims to identify the challenges being faced in the implementation of ICT in the education sector of Pakistan at all levels of education. The second objective of this study is to explore the best practices to overcome the identified challenges. The PRISMA statement has been used to achieve the objectives of the study. The qualitative synthesis and descriptive analysis are used to demonstrate the findings of this systematic literature review. The findings of this study highlight the need to improve the ICT infrastructure to facilitate students with digital online resources, economical solutions, technical facilities, and self-efficacy.
... Based on the results of t-test, there were no significant differences found between the opinions regarding facing problems while implementation of library software according to the Types of Universities This study aimed to examine the perception of university librarians about OSS andproprietary-based library software, moreover investigated the features of standard library software. The integrated library system helps libraries to perform their various daily routine functions, technical process, record keeping, acquisition, cataloging, user management, circulation, statistical reporting, etc., efficiently and also eliminates delays(Bills, 2000;Congleton, 2002;Siddique & Mahmood, 2015;2016). Many researchers researched the use of modern technologies to automate library functions(Hamad, Al-Fadel & Fakhouri, 2021;Ahmed & Sheikh, 2021). ...
... Many researchers researched the use of modern technologies to automate library functions(Hamad, Al-Fadel & Fakhouri, 2021;Ahmed & Sheikh, 2021). A plenty of literature strengthens the results of the present study open-source software is a top choice of library professionals to select for library automation(Rafiq & Ameen, 2009;2010;Rehman, Mahmood & Bhatti, 2012;Siddique & Mahmood, 2015;Khan & Sheikh, 2022). The study found strong problems facing by library professionals while implementing library automation software as, non-cooperation, technical service, willingness to work of staff, availability of training facilities, and inadequate library budget. ...
The purpose of this study was to get an understanding of how academic librarians perceive open-source and proprietary library software. The researchers used a survey research approach and a self-constructed questionnaire as data collection tool. The study targeted 103 library professionals working at HEC-recognized degree awarding institutions (DAIs) and universities in Lahore, both public and private sectors, yielding an 84% response rate. To meet research objectives, descriptive and inferential statistics were applied. Study findings explored that library software should have the facility of advanced searching, library standards, and a user-friendly interface. Comparative analysis revealed that open-source library software contains more modules and requires highly skilled employees. On the other hand, human resources with minor skills can use proprietary software. Factors that prevent adopting OSS for academic libraries include a lack of technical support, skilled and motivated library professionals, inadequate cooperation between supervisors and subordinates, and insufficient training opportunities. Experienced library professionals should guide and offer full cooperation in the selection and implementation of software. Library schools and associations should play a decisive role through school curriculum and professional development programs in preparing graduates and practitioners for embracing modern technologies. Open-source software developers should also organize training programs for software users to work independently in libraries.
... A comprehensive questionnaire was developed after reviewed and took guidance from the questionnaires used by Siddique and Mahmood (2015) and Rafiq and Ameen (2009) The data was entered in the SPSS statistically and formulated different types of procedures, such as frequency distribution, multiple frequency distribution, crosstabulation, independent t-test, ANOVA test for variance analysis, and descriptive statistics. ...
... Table 8 shows that the majority of libraries 20 (52.6%) were using the Barcode system for their circulation module, four (10.5%) were using RFID for circulation module, and fourteen (36.8) were not using any other technology for their circulation module. Siddique and Mahmood (2015) that tried to know about the available automated circulation feature and services. This study also shows the availability and required features and services in the respondent libraries; the frequency table was prepared according to the ranking of percentage, as shown in Table 9. ...
Background: University libraries are considered as the heart of the university because they perform a central role for both researchers and students. The primary responsibility of university libraries is t to provide a research environment that helps to advance the knowledge of students and researchers. Purpose: The study aimed to examine the automated circulation services and features in the university central/main libraries of Lahore. Method: The quantitative research approach based on the survey method was opted to meet the objectives of this study. Main / Central libraries of universities of Lahore listed on the website of Higher Education Commission (HEC) till February 01, 2019, were selected as the population to conduct the survey. Findings: The study revealed that the majority of the universities had started automated circulation services in their libraries. Koha was the most used integrated library software, followed by LIMS and others. The study found that different barriers of automation are confronted by librarians, such as lack of funds, non-availability of standard software, high cost of proprietary software, and retrospective conversion. Originality/value: This is the pioneer paper that gives insight into the status of automated library circulation services in Pakistan. Library software that was used for circulation services, the impact of automated library circulation services, and barriers confronting by the librarians to automate library circulation services were pointed out.
... 24 • Financial constraints. 25 • Lack of formal policies and procedures for collection development and management, including selection, acquisition, digitization, and access. 26 • Lack of proper library communities and the coordination among them for collection development and management. ...
Library and information science has been at an infant stage in Pakistan, primarily in resource management, description, discovery, and access. The reasons are many, including the lack of interest and use of modern tools, techniques, and best practices by librarians in Pakistan. Finding a solution to these challenges requires a comprehensive study that identifies the current state of libraries in Pakistan. This paper fills this gap in the literature by reviewing the relevant literature published between 2015 and 2021 and selected through a rigorous search and selection methodology. It also analyzes the websites of 82 libraries in Pakistan through a theoretical framework based on various aspects. The findings of this study include: Libraries in Pakistan need a transition from traditional and limited solutions to more advanced information and communication technology (ICT)-enabled, user-friendly, and state-of-the-art systems to produce dynamic, consumable, and sharable knowledge space. They must adopt social semantic cataloging to bring all the stakeholders on a single platform. A libraries consortium should be developed to link users to local, multilingual, and multicultural collections for improved knowledge production, recording, sharing, acquisition, and dissemination. These findings benefit Pakistani libraries, librarians, information science professionals, and researchers in other developing countries. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study of its kind providing insights into the current state of libraries in Pakistan through the study of their websites using a rigorous theoretical framework and in the light of the latest relevant literature.
... Overall, Pakistani university libraries are facing budget problems, so the university librarians need to concentrate on implementing low-cost IoTs appliances in the libraries. Siddique and Mahmood (2015) also noted that a major issue for Pakistani libraries in the implementation of technology is the non-availability of budget. However, emerging technologies, for instance, IoTs tend to benefit at a large scale and people attract to these technologies. ...
This study aims to investigate the applications of the Internet of Things (IoTs) and highlights the challenges faced to implement IoTs in Pakistani university libraries. This study opted exploratory sequential mixed-methods approach and was completed in two phases. In the first phase, purposefully selected university librarians were interviewed. In the second phase, quantitative data were collected from 122 university librarians across Pakistan. This study found that Pakistani university libraries implemented IoTs-based appliances including smart air conditioners, automatic fire alarms, smart hand sanitizer machines, and smart security doors. Moreover, the university libraries were using limited IoT-based services that are auto notification of check-out, check-in the reading materials, self-check-out and self-check-in system, recognition of user's card, and the use of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags for security perspective. The major challenges to implementing IoTs applications were found lack of a highly networked and integrated environment, budget problems, unavailability of policy and strategic plan, and the lack of technical personnel. This novel study explains the extent of IoTs applications and the challenges to adopt and implement IoTs in Pakistani university libraries. The research findings would be useful for library and university administrators who are interested to implement IoTs applications in their libraries.
... One of the committees of PLA Sindh i.e. "Technical Services and Copyright Committee" initiated training of open-source integrated library systems and MARC21 for its members and then it was offered to all professional librarians of Sindh but still the library automation situation was neglected, most of the university libraries were using LIMS (Library Information Management System) developed by Pak-LAG group on Microsoft Access, WINISIS, LAMP, etc. (Iqbal, 2008) (Rafiq & Ameen, 2010) (Siddique & Mahmood, 2015). Moreover, there was no concept of library software in school or college libraries, mostly, they were using spreadsheets to list their library resources. ...
This paper presents an overview of Koha Integrated Library Management Software deployments in Pakistani libraries in general and also discusses the Pakistan Library Association's Koha Implementation Program (PLA's KIP) in detail which is a unique idea for a library association in a developing country context to voluntarily support library automation for library development. The purpose of this study is to measure the impact of this program on librarians' professionals and personal life and also to recommend a future technology path for the Pakistan Library Association and also other similar associations working on such initiatives. In this paper qualitative descriptive approach is adopted where data was collected through literature review, semi-structured-open-ended interviews of head librarians of those concerned institutions where Koha-ILS was implemented under the PLA's KIP and the author’s personal experience sharing in implementing and teaching the Koha-ILS through this program.
... Considering the available components and features in both software packages showed that they included at least the required capabilities in their collection development applications, but some important ones were ignored. In this case, Siddique and Mahmood (2015) indicated that most libraries' current software does not provide all modules available in any standard software. Considering the very high and high rates specialists assigned to each component and feature, it can be concluded that all of these components and features are very necessary. ...
Background:
Library websites are important for marketing library services and providing access to electronic resources.
Objectives:
To determine the extent and quality of medical college (school) library websites in Pakistan, according to predetermined criteria.
Methods:
A checklist of 40 items was developed from the literature on academic library website evaluation as well as observation of known best practice. The checklist was used on the 45 medical college websites that fitted initial inclusion criteria.
Results:
Of the possible 114 candidates for inclusion, 52 institution websites contained no information about the library, 17 only provided minimum details, leaving 45 medical college library websites that could be included. Library websites lack uniformity, and most of the important features as only three library websites contained more than 20 items from the checklist. The Agha Khan University Medical College, Karachi library website contained the highest (27) number of items.
Discussion:
The findings indicate the design of medical college library websites is generally inadequate in Pakistan. The websites are not performing a useful role in communicating with faculty and students. The findings point to inadequate website design skills among librarians or the lack of co-operation with professional website designers.
Conclusions:
Marketing of library services and good customer relations demand improvements in the information architecture of medical college library websites as well as continued maintenance of the content to ensure that it is up to date.
Purpose: The aim of this study was to measure the status of automation, training of staff and level of implementation towards library management systems in public and private university libraries in Lahore, Pakistan. Design/methodology/approach: This study used a quantitative research approach. A Survey was carried out to collect data from the respondents. A structured research instrument was formulated after a review of the literature to collect data from the university libraries of Lahore city. Results: The data analysis of this study revealed that the majority of the libraries are fully automated and only a few libraries are partially automated. Most of the libraries are satisfied with LIMS free based software and KOHA open source software, due to the availability of essential library software modules and facility of customization. The majority of the libraries’ staff got training to use the library management system. A large number of libraries software has Cataloguing, Circulation, Membership, Reports, OPAC, Serials and Acquisition modules and only one library has a Mobile app. Originality/value: The findings of this research might be helpful for libraries in the selection of standard library management systems for their housekeeping functions, evaluation and selection criteria of library software for Pakistani libraries and especially for the libraries of Lahore.
Purpose – This paper aims to elaborate the library data migration process from LAMP (Library Automation Management Program) to the open source software Koha's (2.2.8 Windows based) Pakistani flavour PakLAG-Koha in six legislative assembly libraries of Pakistan.
Design/methodology/approach – The paper explains different steps of the data migration from one ILM (integrated library management system) to a new ILM in six libraries over the course of three months. Qualitative research methods, i.e. direct observation and interviews, were adopted for finding the problems and solutions of the delayed project. Training and support was offered by a local volunteer group (PakLAG). One of the authors of the paper presented first-hand experience of being a consultant of this project. The study and results are the author's own reflections and first-hand experiences, and hence results are based on direct observations.
Findings – The paper identifies several critical issues and their solutions concerning data migration within a local scenario as well as how local consultants and support groups are coping with these issues. It was noticed that the data migration can be done quickly if any support group is properly involved with the library staff.
Originality/value – This paper provides first-hand experience and success story of library data migration from DOS-based ILM to open source software. Process, tools and findings discussed in this paper are valuable for the libraries planning to convert non-MARC data to open source MARC-based software Koha.
The Study is conducted to investigate the situation of automation in school libraries of karachi. the study is conducted to explore the extent of automation in school libraries of karachi, available hardware and software which are being used for automation and to find out the problems of automation in school libraries.
Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) movement has brought a series of alternative software solutions for almost all categories of software including Operating Systems, Database Systems, Web Servers, Programming Languages, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Graphics, Games, Networking, and System Administration.
FOSS Movement has got a major share in the market of software from its beginning. Libraries are the early institutions which adopted computer packages for management of information and automation of library procedures. FOSS Movement is very popular in libraries around the world. Libraries have been blessed with Free and Open Source Software including Integrated Library Software, Digital Library Management, Content Management, Inter-Library Loan Management, Document Delivery Services, and other web-based services around the world including developing as well as developed countries.
FOSS Movement in LIS Profession of Pakistan is not very old. It started in mid of the first decade of 21st century and started the journey slowly. But now after five to six years, it is getting popularity in all type of libraries in the country. The purpose of this study is to explore the current status of FOSS Movement in Pakistan and the efforts made by the individuals or LIS organizations to promote Free and Open Source Software in Pakistan. This paper has also suggested measures to be taken in future to promote FOSS movement.
The methodology of this study is based upon the literature review and interviews of some key persons involved in Free and Open Source Software in LIS in Pakistan have been conducted.
Describes the current status of the use of computers in Pakistani libraries. Discusses the problems faced by librarians and information specialists in automating their libraries. Reviews internationally accepted database management systems mostly used in library housekeeping routines in Pakistan. Also introduces locally developed library packages. Gives a brief account of training facilities in library software offered by library schools and professional associations in the country, particularly the Pakistan Library Association.
The use of computers in libraries in Pakistan is expected to increase as the government realizes the possibilities of new information technology. Outlines the basic elements of the computerization of library operations and discusses the problems of using and developing library software in Pakistan. Libraries have automated individually without exchanging experience; most libraries cannot afford library automation, and librarians are not trained in library automation. Although foreign software is not suitable for Pakistan's libraries, some foreign software is being used, including: dBase III+ and IV; Foxpro; INMAGIC; Mini-micro CDS/ISIS; MINISIS; and Sci-Mate. Attempts have been made to develop library applications software in Pakistan. The most successful has been the Library Automation and Management Program (LAMP), developed by the Netherlands Library Development Project-Pakistan using CDS/ISIS. Recommends that a National Centre for Library Software Development be established and a MARC format for Pakistan should be developed. Library software should be developed to deal with materials in local languages.
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the most used library software in Lahore using a checklist and seek librarians' opinions about them. It also aims to seek librarians' opinions about the most desired and needed features of Integrated Library Software (ILS).
Design/methodology/approach
The paper is based on questionnaire survey, interview, document analysis and personal communication. The questionnaire survey was conducted within automated libraries of Lahore, while interviews were conducted with selected librarians from Lahore. Collected data were analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively to reach conclusions.
Findings
A variety of software is being used by the libraries of Lahore. Nor is there available, any standard tool or directory for the selection and evaluation of the software. Evaluation of the software against a checklist reveals the better functionality of Library Information Management System and Library Automation and Management Program than INMAGIC and WINISIS, but librarians were found to be more satisfied with INMAGIC. All the respondents agreed that before selecting any ILS, librarys' actual and perceived needs, available resources and funds should be kept in mind. They also proposed many features of ILS.
Research limitations/implications
The questionnaire survey is limited to the automated libraries of Lahore and focuses on the comparison and evaluation of the most used software only, while selected librarians with good IT skills were chosen for seeking opinions about the most desired ILS features.
Practical implications
The survey results can be helpful to foreign and local vendors of ILS, librarians, higher authorities and other developing countries in selecting and maintaining required software.
Originality/value
It is the first comprehensive study conducted on ILS not only in Lahore, but in Pakistan.
Describes the activities of the Netherlands Library Development Project (NLDP) for the promotion of information technology in Pakistan. During a period of five years, NLDP made great efforts in the fields of manpower training, hardware supply, software development, information networks, and curriculum development in Pakistan. It set up computer training centres for training librarians, introduced electronic mail and CD-ROM technology in Pakistani libraries, information centres and library schools, sponsored courses on library automation in Pakistan and sent librarians abroad for training. The project encouraged a group of librarians to work on information technology projects in the country, and suggested a framework for information networking in Pakistan.
The study aims to explore the professional activities, needed competencies and education/training needs of medical librarians in Pakistan. Following research questions guided the study: what are the current professional activities of medical librarians in Pakistan? What is their perception of the competencies, needed of medical librarians? And what are their training and education needs? Twenty medical librarians were identified through purposive sampling. An interview guide was prepared after expert review and pilot testing. Personal and telephone interviews were conducted to collect the data. Data were analysed using content analysis method. Sixteen (80%) out of 20 medical librarians could be approached. The findings reveal that the medical librarians were generally involved in traditional kind of professional activities. They were unaware about the latest trends in medical librarianship. Out of ten competencies mentioned by the respondents “Ability to use ICT and integrated library software”, “Verbal and written communication skills” and “Extensive knowledge of Pub Med and other medical databases” were ranked first, second and third respectively. The opportunities of specialized education and training are also limited for medical librarians. Based on the findings of the study it was recommended that formal training programs should be initiated for medical librarians in Pakistan by MELAP, CPSP and library schools.
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.
Purpose
– This paper aims to analyse features and functions of indigenously developed web‐based catalogues of academic, special and national libraries of Pakistan.
Design/methodology/approach
– The assessment of 16 OPACs is based on a 91‐item checklist developed with the help of previous studies conducted in other countries.
Findings
– The paper finds that indigenous web OPACs are at an initial stage of development and only offer basic facilities to their users. They do not offer facilities many OPACs in advanced countries already offer. Their shortcomings include the absence of MARC format and Z39.50 protocol, which are indispensable for shared cataloguing. A very few catalogues can accommodate non‐Roman scripts like Urdu and other local languages.
Originality/value
– The comparison of features and functions of web OPACs can be useful to understand the level of OPAC development in Pakistan. It can also be helpful for future improvements in this regard.
INTRODUCTIONDuring the last fifty years, the world has witnessedimportant changes; in particular, information and com-munication technology (ICT) has brought a revolutionin every sphere of life. Using ICT, libraries have notonly observed remarkable changes in their dailyoperations and services, but also identified a new andactive role for librarians. Automation or computeriza-tion is an important application of ICT in libraries. Itfacilitates speedy library operations, services, and ac-cess to and delivery of information.The current study is the first of its kind to examinethe current status of ICT applications in medical li-braries in Pakistan. It evaluatesthe statusof automationand the availability of Internet, Higher EducationCommission (HEC) Digital Library resources, andwebsites in medical libraries in Lahore, which is thecapital of Punjab province and second largest city ofPakistan, with a population of nine million people. As ahistorical, cultural, and educational city, it is regardedas the heart of Pakistan. Medical libraries in Lahorewere, therefore, selected as a case to examine theprevailing status of ICT applications.LITERATURE REVIEWLibraries in developed countries computerized theiroperations two decades ago. However, the pace of ICTapplications in libraries in developing countries has beenvery slow. Studies conducted by Hopkinson [1], Senevir-atne and Amaraweera [2], Singh [3], and Vasishta [4]provide a good basis from which to grasp the status ofICT applications in the libraries of developing countries.The computer was first used in 1968 in Pakistan toprovide a union catalog of scientific periodicals atthe Pakistan Scientific and Technological InformationCentre, but automation in libraries did not really beginuntil the 1980s. Prior to that, librarians in Pakistanwere reluctant to introduce automation, fearing thatit would minimize their role. However, soon theyrealized its advantages, and now there is a growingtrend of applying ICT in Pakistani libraries [5, 6].International agencies and organizations like the AsiaFoundation, government of the Netherlands, Interna-
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to identify and discuss key issues related to the adoption of open source software (OSS) in Pakistani libraries.
Design/methodology/approach
Literature review and principal author's first‐hand experience of Koha (OSS) implementation in Provincial Assembly Libraries of Pakistan under Pakistan Legislative Strengthen Project of United States Agency for International Development provide the information and insight for this paper.
Findings
Adoption of OSS in libraries is just at a beginning stage in Pakistan, and only a few organizations have so far made their first move in this direction. The major identified issues affecting OSS adoption in Pakistani libraries are: social (cultural) disparity, conceptual confusions, digital divide, lack of technological, financial, and human development.
Practical implications
The paper will help decision makers plan OSS applications in their libraries.
Originality/value
This is the first paper on the topic in Pakistan and explores the issues involved in OSS adoption in a comprehensive manner. The paper can provide understanding regarding adoption of OSS to professionals in Pakistani and other developing countries with similar environment.
Purpose
The paper seeks to reveal the current status of software used in the libraries of Lahore, to explore the satisfaction level of the software users, and to find out their problems and suggestions.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper reports a survey of automated libraries of Lahore comprising academic (university, college, and school libraries), public and special libraries. Opinions were acquired from the whole population. The data collected were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively, and conclusions were drawn along with recommendations.
Findings
Most libraries purchased or developed software without any exchange of experience with each other. A variety of software was being used by the libraries of Lahore. No standard tool or directory was available for the selection and evaluation of software, nor was comprehensive literature written and published in a Pakistani scenario discussing the technical and practical aspects of library software. The Pakistani literature available on the topic is not up to date.
Research limitations/implications
The research is limited to the automated libraries of Lahore and focuses on the comparison of software and determining librarians' opinions.
Practical implications
The comparative analysis of software used in various libraries of Lahore made in this study and the opinions of the software users studied will be helpful for foreign and local vendors of library software. It will also provide guidelines for libraries in developing countries, which are planning to automate their services, in selecting and maintaining software that is most suitable to their needs.
Originality/value
No comprehensive survey has been conducted at national or local level to reveal the current status of the software and related problems faced by Pakistani libraries. The current study, although focussing only on libraries in the city of Lahore, can be extrapolated to the country as a whole and should prove useful as an indication of how issues with library software can arise and be handled.
The utilisation of information technology (IT) has become an indicator of a country's wealth level. Countries, which fail to prepare for information technology and do not use it properly, are likely to lose their global competitiveness. Muslim countries have paid little attention to leverage the benefits offered by the IT use in their library and information centres. The first part of this paper reports the status of information technology applications in libraries and information centres of Muslim countries. The second part of the paper reports the level of hardware, software, and IT-based resources available in libraries and information centres in Pakistan. The third part of this paper discusses the problems hindering the wider use of information technology in libraries and information centres in Pakistan. Based on the findings of the survey and documentary research the final part of this paper puts forward overall suggestions to solve the problems hindering the wider use of information technology in libraries and information centres in general, and in Muslim countries in particular.
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate and determine the levels of information technology (IT) in Pakistani libraries. More specifically, the paper focuses on the status of computers and other commonly used hardware, e‐mail, internet, library software, automated user services, expenditure on IT and online resources available in academic libraries of Pakistan.
Design/methodology/approach
The data are collected through a questionnaire survey of 288 (sample of 682) academic libraries across Pakistan. A total of 219 (76 per cent) valid responses are used for data analysis and interpretation using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS).
Findings
The paper finds a low level of IT availability, especially the absence of computers, e‐mail and internet in few libraries. Similarly, the libraries are far behind to achieve excellent IT levels. It is found that libraries need to be fully automated using standard library software/management systems. However, access to online resources through the Higher Education Commission (HEC) is found extensive and comprehensive. The data indicate the need to enhance libraries' IT expenditure.
Practical implications
The findings can be utilized to evaluate the status of different IT tools and applications. The statistical data are very useful and authentic source for planning to improve the libraries' IT infrastructure, library automation and in reducing the gap in levels of IT application in different type of libraries.
Originality/value
This is a first comprehensive study that provides a complete picture along with statistical data regarding IT applications (computers and other common hardware, software, e‐mail, internet, other information access technologies, applications and online resources available) in academic libraries of Pakistan.
Integrated Library Systems (ILS) are a natural outgrowth of Library Automation systems. Libraries have eagerly employed whatever tools have become available to assist in the enormously laborintensive tasks of managing a library. In the early twenty-first century, ILS combine various components in numerous ways to meet the needs of libraries ranging from small school and hospital libraries, large academic and government libraries, corporate libraries of all sizes, and huge consortia of public libraries.
Library automation, in rudimentary form, began in the late 1960s and since 1990 has been the main focus of Pakistani librarianship. The generous financial assistance provided by the Netherlands Library Development Project (Pakistan) further accelerated the pace in this regard. However, the libraries in Pakistan have not registered any significant progress. Automated systems are lacking in large university libraries, as well as in college and public libraries. The largest group using this technology is specialist libraries. These libraries use automation primarily for a few selected operations. Some private sector universities have taken steps towards the planning and implementation of integrated library systems, but these are still in the trial stages. The National Library in Pakistan has also just made similar steps. The UNESCO sponsored CDS/ISIS is the most commonly used software; other popular packages used include ORACLE and INMAGIC. Some indigenous systems have also been developed, but without much success. IBM 386 and IBM 486 compatibles are used by the vast majority of libraries. Computer application education is yet to be introduced to schools by the country's library. The major constraints on library automation include: absence of planning, non-availability of software, import restriction on choice of hardware, lack of competent manpower, non existence of standard, absence of co-operation etc.
Purpose
This paper aims to elaborate the library data migration process from LAMP (Library Automation Management Program) to the open source software Koha's (2.2.8 Windows based) Pakistani flavour PakLAG‐Koha in six legislative assembly libraries of Pakistan.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper explains different steps of the data migration from one ILM (integrated library management system) to a new ILM in six libraries over the course of three months. Qualitative research methods, i.e. direct observation and interviews, were adopted for finding the problems and solutions of the delayed project. Training and support was offered by a local volunteer group (PakLAG). One of the authors of the paper presented first‐hand experience of being a consultant of this project. The study and results are the author's own reflections and first‐hand experiences, and hence results are based on direct observations.
Findings
The paper identifies several critical issues and their solutions concerning data migration within a local scenario as well as how local consultants and support groups are coping with these issues. It was noticed that the data migration can be done quickly if any support group is properly involved with the library staff.
Originality/value
This paper provides first‐hand experience and success story of library data migration from DOS‐based ILM to open source software. Process, tools and findings discussed in this paper are valuable for the libraries planning to convert non‐MARC data to open source MARC‐based software Koha.
We were slow to explore the automation world as the custom software development entails substantial investment and the off the shelf software packages are either too costly or do not meet all the requirements. However, the several library automation projects have been embarked in recent years, as the librarians could not ignore the power of the library automation in order to meet up with the rest of the world in the trend of information management and dissemination. This paper reviews the success of the automation project of the library of the Open University of Sri Lanka with special focus on the automating the circulation of library materials using Alice for Windows - the integrated library management software package. doi: 10.4038/jula.v9i0.311 Journal of the University Librarians Association of Sri Lanka (Vol. 9) 2005 p.12-22
The automation of technical service functions has led to many changes in workflows and culture. Recent enhancements have leveraged systems developed by materials vendors of books and serials to further enhance library efficiency, resulting in adjustments to how work is assigned both inside and outside the library. Future developments are expected in technical service functions following the same trends, as well as changes that will provide ways to manage the emerging electronic products.
Suggests that access to and sharing of information resources are dependent on the automation of library operations and use of computers. Profiles characteristics of libraries in three African countries (Ghana, Kenya and Nigeria), with particular emphasis on the state of the art of technological capabilities. A very small number of libraries have online public access catalogues, and very few of the respondents to the survey reported here indicated that their staff members had an excellent knowledge of computers and computer functions. About 44 per cent of responding libraries own computers, and the most common microcomputer application is local database searching. Lack of funds and training in librarianship are two major problems, though the vast majority of librarians indicated a strong desire to further their education in librarianship. When planning automation, it is important for African librarians and computer scientists to get leaders in authority involved. Resource sharing and co-operation among libraries need to be given serious consideration.
Purpose – This paper aims to elaborate the library data migration process from LAMP (Library Automation Management Program) to the open source software Koha's (2.2.8 Windows based) Pakistani flavour PakLAG-Koha in six legislative assembly libraries of Pakistan.
Design/methodology/approach – The paper explains different steps of the data migration from one ILM (integrated library management system) to a new ILM in six libraries over the course of three months. Qualitative research methods, i.e. direct observation and interviews, were adopted for finding the problems and solutions of the delayed project. Training and support was offered by a local volunteer group (PakLAG). One of the authors of the paper presented first-hand experience of being a consultant of this project. The study and results are the author's own reflections and first-hand experiences, and hence results are based on direct observations.
Findings – The paper identifies several critical issues and their solutions concerning data migration within a local scenario as well as how local consultants and support groups are coping with these issues. It was noticed that the data migration can be done quickly if any support group is properly involved with the library staff.
Originality/value – This paper provides first-hand experience and success story of library data migration from DOS-based ILM to open source software. Process, tools and findings discussed in this paper are valuable for the libraries planning to convert non-MARC data to open source MARC-based software Koha.
The automated library system (ALS) has undergone significant changes since its inception in the 1970s. It is no longer simply a database to house and retrieve a library's holdings. It has become an integrated library system (ILS) comprised of robust clusters of systems involving every process and module related to libraries.
The Internet, open source, the increase in electronic resources, and the rising expectations of library users are changing the nature of the ILS. Library vendors are at times struggling to keep up with the demand for new services while providing support for existing services.
This article details the evolving role of the ILS and discusses where it could and should be headed.
An online survey was sent to academic libraries and consortia with an integrated library system (ILS) migration project, based on review of press releases from major U.S. ILS vendors. This study takes a systematic approach to provide a snapshot of the academic ILS market and key factors affecting the outcome of an ILS migration project. It reveals the challenges and opportunities facing academic libraries and ILS vendors in an environment with rapidly changing technology and increasingly sophisticated academic users.
Library automation, in rudimentary form, began in the late 1960s and since 1990 has been the main focus of Pakistani librarianship. The generous financial assistance provided by the Netherlands Library Development Project (Pakistan) further accelerated the pace in this regard. However, the libraries in Pakistan have not registered any significant progress. Automated systems are lacking in large university libraries, as well as in college and public libraries. The largest group using this technology is specialist libraries. These libraries use automation primarily for a few selected operations. Some private sector universities have taken steps towards the planning and implementation of integrated library systems, but these are still in the trial stages. The National Library in Pakistan has also just made similar steps. The UNESCO sponsored CDS/ISIS is the most commonly used software; other popular packages used include ORACLE and INMAGIC. Some indigenous systems have also been developed, but without much success. IBM 386 and IBM 486 compatibles are used by the vast majority of libraries. Computer application education is yet to be introduced to schools by the country's library. The major constraints on library automation include: absence of planning, non-availability of software, import restriction on choice of hardware, lack of competent manpower, non existence of standard, absence of co-operation etc.
Purpose
– The study was undertaken to find out which library processes have been automated in Ghana's three older public university libraries namely, the Balme Library, the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) Library and the University of Cape Coast (UCC) Library.
Design/methodology/approach
– Using data obtained through the use of questionnaires, the study examined areas of general automation, automation of specific library processes, networking, internet connectivity, training, and major constraints to library automation.
Findings
– The study found out that even though the university libraries realize the importance of library automation, they are hampered by lack of funds, lack of support from the university administrations, and lack of skilled staff to embark on automation of all library processes. It was also revealed that none of the libraries have on OPAC (online public access catalogue).
Originality/value
– The study concludes with recommendations that would enhance the university libraries drive towards automation of their library processes and ensure effective and efficient use of the new technology to raise the image of the libraries and give their library clients more services.
Library automation: Survey of computerized library services in federal area (Islamabad/Rawalpindi)
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The status of automation in the institutional libraries of University of the Punjab
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The impact of modern information technology in the Caribbean: Exploring the challenges for the technical services division
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LABELNET: Development of a networking project
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A treatise on library and information science in Pakistan
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Library automation problems in Pakistan
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Comparative study of the software used in the libraries of Lahore
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Lahore. Master thesis, University of the Punjab, Lahore.
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Khalid Mahmood is a professor in the Department of Information Management at the University of the Punjab, Lahore . He is the author of numerous articles in both Pakistani and international professional journals
Nadeem Siddique is a library manager at Lahore University
of Management Sciences (LUMS), Lahore, Pakistan.
Khalid Mahmood is a professor in the Department of Information Management at the University of the Punjab, Lahore. He is the author of numerous articles in both Pakistani
and international professional journals.
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