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Aim: This study was intended to investigate the marketing of library and information services in medical college libraries in the province of Punjab, Pakistan. Research Methodology: The study employed a descriptive survey research design. The population consisted of 55 medical library in-charges, irrespective of their administrative set-up (public and private). A self-administrated questionnaire comprising five-point Likert scale was prepared. Which was pilot-tested and revised. The questionnaire was used as an instrument for data collection consisted of seven main research questions with 72 items. The descriptive statistics, frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation of the data were analyzed by using IBM SPSS-23. Results: All the targeted respondents participated in the survey. Administratively, 18 medical colleges were functioning under the public sector domain, while 37 medical colleges were run by the private sector. The finding demonstrated the necessity of marketing library and information services in order fulfill the objectives of the library and inform patrons of the value of library use. Most of the medical libraries marketed themselves by providing valuable library services to their clientele. The competencies required for librarians in marketing library services are the ability to answer the user's query and evaluate, improve as well as introduce value-added services in the libraries. Furthermore, study's finding revealed that lack of funds, lack of the latest facilities to market library services and unsupportive attitude of administrations were the leading factors militating against marketing library services. Conclusion: Based on the findings it was concluded that more funds should be allocated, workshops and seminars should also be organized for librarians to train them on how to market their library services effectively. The curriculum of Library and Information Science/Information Management should be redesigned to accommodate marketing courses. Finally, librarians must be committed to improve their competencies and market their services in befitting manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper intends to examine academic library services and facilities for university students at the tertiary level in Punjab. It has been observed that all educational institutions specifically higher education has an academic library to facilitate the students in terms of their academic activities and research-oriented tasks. This study has been conducted to measure the response of library patrons of two Public Sector Universities in Punjab, Pakistan. The unit of analysis has been based on the enrolled students of the University of Gujrat, Gujrat, and Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan. A sample of 16 students (8 students from each university and half male and female student ratio) has been selected using a purposive sampling technique. An interview guide has been developed and a case study method has been used to conduct in-depth interviews of the library Patrons. It is worth stating that researchers conducted interviews in the academic library of the relevant universities' main campus. Data analysis has been done with reference thematic analysis technique. The study finding asserted that library patrons reported that research support services and internet facilities had been provided by the library administration. Similarly, the study findings revealed that a silent zone of study, printing, and photocopy facility had been provided to support academic activities at the university. Likewise, the study results indicated that an online public access catalog, reference and periodical section, and open reading area had also been provided by the library staff to the library patron for the smooth running of research activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study has been designed to examine the digitalization of resources in academic libraries in Pakistan. The world continues its flow of digitalization through the internet such as people starting jobs online, online selling and purchasing businesses, online shares, and investment during the time of Coronavirus. Hence, the digitalization of libraries has no exemption. A purposive sampling technique has been employed to select 16 participants (8 students and 8 library professionals) from the academic library of the University of Gujrat. Further, an interview guide has been developed to conduct case studies. The data collection process takes place within ten working days. Similarly, the data has been presented as a thematic analysis and discussion has been made accordingly to conclude. The study findings conclude that academic libraries digitalize their resources for the smooth running of academic activities for the library patrons including AV aids, e-books, e-journals, online databases, online library services, e-resources, internal facilities, online discussion forums, online queries, and provisional material online. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose-The purpose of the study was to assess the usefulness of digital library resources & services, and the value of multidisciplinary databases among postgraduate researchers/students. This research study is an investigation of technology acceptance behaviours of university library users in Lahore, Pakistan. It also works on user's perception and usage of digital databases, user's level of satisfaction, user's ease of use and usefulness to use digital library databases and identifications of factors affecting accessing digital databases. This research study is based on the TAM model in the context of technology acceptance by postgraduate researchers. Design/methodology/approach-This is a quantitative research study based on the technology acceptance model (TAM) and two basic variables i.e. perceived ease of use (PEOU) and perceived usefulness (PU) adopted to check the acceptance level of library users through an adapted questionnaire-survey of 243 post-graduate students of higher degree-awarding universities/institutes of Pakistan, accredited from Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan. Findings-The findings of this study discovered that the perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use of the system are significant predictors that play the primary role in accepting the particular system. The effect of moderating variables with respect to gender and age impacts the acceptance level. The findings of this research study also show that female researchers use online library databases conveniently and preferably, as compared to male researchers. Implications-The results of this research study will help out teachers, students, and institutional administration in their academic pursuits. The faculty can get a better idea of how to teach and lead researchers from the available digital information resources and services provided by the university libraries. It will also help in decision making about the selection or rejection of resources for the library's users/students. Originality/value-This research study provides valuable/important insights into key factors that impact and affect user's perception & intention to use and accept library technological services and digital resources from the Pakistani perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In today's technological world, information literacy has become essential, which involves the effective and ethical identification, access, evaluation, and utilization of information. Public libraries are significant contributors to the promotion of information literacy, especially in developing countries such as Pakistan, where information access is limited. The aim of study is to identify effects and role of information literacy in public libraries of Pakistan, identify the issues and challenges faced by libraries, and propose recommendations assess in the improvisation of in literacy programs. This study based on, primary, secondary and tertiary data and information was collected from different information sources such as research article, websites, books, ejournals etc. The outcomes of the research are Public libraries in Pakistan do not offer standardized information literacy programs. Students are the main users of public libraries in Pakistan, followed by instructors and researchers. The majority of Pakistani public libraries have modest digital resource holdings. Pakistan's public libraries are not effectively utilizing technology to advance information literacy. Basic computer skills and information searches are the main topics covered in Pakistani public libraries' information literacy programs. There is a need to create more thorough information literacy courses that encompass research techniques, critical thinking, and online behavior. Promoting information literacy in Pakistan is significantly hampered by the absence of skilled workers in public libraries. To increase information literacy, public libraries in Pakistan must work with schools and universities. Furthermore these findings may prove helpful in promoting information literacy programs in Pakistan's public libraries. Furthermore, the suggestions could help policymakers, library professionals, and educators in creating and implementing effective strategies that cater to the diverse population of Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This descriptive study examined the Shah Abdul Latif Public Library in Shahdadpur, Sindh, Pakistan, with the aim of understanding its features, resources, services, and knowledge dissemination and community engagement. The study used mixed-method approach and collected data was presented in simple tables and charts. Research provided comprehensive description with aim of rules and regulations of library and the literature review explored the significance of public libraries as information centers and their role in community engagement and lifelong learning. The historical background of library may provide the understanding of basic foundation of public libraries in Pakistani cities, like Shahdadpur. During the study data was gathered with deep unbiased based observations and also conducted insights from face-to-face interviews with library staff, including librarian Asadullah Talpur, and also used open ended questionnaire, to understand the library's operations, challenges, and community initiatives. On-site observations assessed the library's physical layout, facilities, and usage patterns. The findings contribute to the existing literature and provide a comprehensive description of the Shah Abdul Latif Public Library. This research revealed the library's available resources and lacking in the services including books and digital materials, availability of technological equipments within library that support users to update from 21st century skills and services such as literacy programs facilities that was provided to the community members in different kind events. The findings and recommendations may prove to assist library staff in improvisation of library services and facilities and also assist other libraries to overcome the challenges faced by library professionals and user. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study sought to understand library users' opinions, attitudes, and needs regarding using artificial intelligence (AI) in libraries. A survey questionnaire was administered to 71 respondents from academic and public libraries throughout the region. This survey examined a range of topics related to AI use in libraries, such as its perceived benefits and drawbacks; ethical and privacy considerations; user demographics; and factors influencing user adoption of and satisfaction with AI-powered services. The survey results revealed a generally positive attitude toward AI use in libraries. However, concerns were raised regarding such decisions' privacy and ethical ramifications. Libraries must consider user needs and expectations when implementing and managing AI-powered systems. At the same time, further research is necessary to explore different topics related to this emerging technology field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aimed to investigate the current status and online services portfolio of web OPACs and barriers users' face while searching information on web OPACs of public and private sector university libraries in Lahore. The inquirer adopted quantitative survey method and distributed self administrated (peer reviewed and pilot test) questionnaire among 425 library users who were selected using stratified convenient sampling technique. This study illustrated various types of service being offer and uncovered number of barriers and redundancies that users' of public and private sector university libraries face while searching information remotely on web OPACs. This research study would benefit library administrators and web OPAC designers in the make web OPACs more effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to assess effectiveness of electronic services in university libraries in Punjab, Pakistan. The study adopted the quantitative research method to achieve its objectives. The quantitative data were collected through the questionnaire from library users in eight public universities by employing the convenience sampling technique. The findings of the study reveal that the libraries did not offer adequate electronic services. The respondents did not seem satisfied with the electronic services as most of them did not give their opinions about the services. The findings of the study will be helpful for university authorities and the library administration to take necessary measures to design and offer electronic services keeping in view users' needs and expectations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose This study aimed to look into the interest in and use of WhatsApp technology among National College of Business Administration & Economics (NCBAE) University Pakistan library users. Design/methodology/approach A Google Forms questionnaire was designed and emailed to students from various departments at the National College of Business Administration and Economics University of Pakistan. SPSS 22 was used to tabulate and analyze the data for this paper. Findings According to one study, WhatsApp is a robust and cutting-edge technology that might be integrated with digital library services to reach out to library consumers. This technology will assist library patrons in receiving high-quality services. Some technological and human resource variables may impact service delivery and hence must be addressed. As a result, library management is advised to take the required steps to integrate WhatsApp with digital library services to ensure efficient and effective service delivery. Practical implications WhatsApp is one of the most widely used social networking applications, with many organizations, including libraries, using it. This technology is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to patrons on campus and in remote locations. As a result, the quality of library services will improve, and users will be more satisfied. Originality/value This research examines WhatsApp technology in the context of Pakistan's National College of Business Administration and Economics University. This is the researcher's first attempt to address a vital topic. This research will benefit the National College of Business Administration and Economics University's library patrons and the whole academic community in Lahore. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose This study aimed to investigate the interest and use of WhatsApp technology among the library users of National Defence University Pakistan. Design/methodology/approach A questionnaire in google forms was created shared with the students of five departments of National Defence University Pakistan via email. The data were tabulated and analyzed using SPSS 22 for this paper. Findings This study revealed that WhatsApp is a robust and state of the art technology that could be embedded with digital library services to approach the library's patrons. This technology will help the library users getting quality services. Some technical and human resource factors could affect the delivery of services and hence need to be addressed. Therefore, it is recommended that library management should take necessary action to Embedded WhatsApp with Digital library services to ensure efficient and effective service delivery. Practical implications The WhatsApp is one of the most prominet technologies in social media applications that is deployed by many organizations including libraries. This technologies help the patrons at campus and remote places around the clock. Consequently, it will increase the quality of library services with greater satisfaction among users. Originality/value This study focuses on WhatsApp technology in the academic environment of National Defence University, Pakistan. This study is the first attempt of the researcher to highlight the critical issue. This study will be helpful for the library users of National Defence University and the entire academic setup in Islamabad. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rationale of this report was to evaluate the current use of electronic resources among users of medical college libraries in Multan division. Moreover, mean variation about medical e-resources in respect of awareness, satisfaction, utilization and barriers with respondents' gender trait were also explored. This study used a questionnaire to conduct a cross-sectional survey research design. The survey questionnaire was send to the target population of medical college libraries users in Multan division of Pakistan and response rate was 88 per cent. The findings of the study shows that users of the medical libraries were slightly aware about the medical e-resources and majority of the participants were used medical e-resources for education, learning and to update knowledge purposes. In addition, Medical e-resources that are MEDLINE, PubMed, Springer Link, Science Direct, Black-Well Synergy and ProQuest Database were utilized rarely by the respondents. Users are partially satisfied with medical e-resources of libraries. Lack of training/orientation, low speed of internet, energy crisis/load shedding, lack of printing facility, non-availability of full text access to the most of Journals, lack of awareness, information overload and inadequate IT infrastructure were the major problems faced to medical colleges library users while using e-resources. There is no statistically significant difference in the mean scores of awareness, utilization, satisfaction and barriers about the medical e-resources with respect to male and female. The findings allow library professionals to be more effective, proactive, and successful in achieving digitize library services and resources. This study also made a significant contribution to the existing literature on medical e-resources and services. The findings could contribute in the promotion of digital library services and products, as well as virtual culture, in Pakistani medical college libraries, particularly in the Multan Division. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the published literature on digital library resources and the users' experiences (i.e. satisfaction level, motivating factors, and major challenges) with these resources in Pakistan. Several e-databases were consulted including Research Gate', ScienceDirect, Web of Science, and Google Scholar to retrieve relevant literature. The study adopted a systematic literature review approach followed by PRISMA guidelines. Out of 323 articles, a total of 22 relevant studies were included based on pre-defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The findings of this study reveal that most of the endusers are satisfied with the digital library resources, and they consulted these resources for academic and research endeavors. The authenticity and accuracy of the DLRs were the main motivating factors in the effective use of DLRs. Furthermore, this study consolidated several factors faced by end-users while using DLRs. The results of this study could help the policymakers, HEC authority, LIS professionals to further improve access to DLRs and resolve the problems facing end-users in the country. Moreover, the findings of this study will help the university administration and library authority to plan the subscription of resources keeping in view the associated barriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of this paper is to examine online library resources during the COVID-19 pandemic situation at higher educational institutions in Pakistan. During the current pandemic situations, all the educational activities have been postponed and transformed into online latterly. A cross-sectional study consisting of a sample of 2378 from library patrons of public sector universities in Pakistan. A structured questionnaire has been administered based on different parts using an attitudinal scale of (dis)agreement has been used and pre-tested randomly with the reliability value ranging from .03 to .842. It is pertinent here to mention that during the COVID-19 pandemic, all the educational activities were shifted to online mode and it was not possible to collect information physically. Hence, an online method was opted and the questionnaire was shared through emails and WhatsApp numbers of public sector university library users. The study findings reveal that COVID-19 outbreak, fear of infection, and social distancing have favorable effects on online library information resources. Similarly, the results also support the argument that accessibility of manuscripts, accessibility of periodicals, and accessibility of books have favorable effects on online library resources. The study suggested that similar nature of the study may be conducted using mixed-method research and a different set of variables in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose -- The objective of this study is to gauge the level of information literacy skills of faculty members of the University of Lahore. Design/methodology/approach -- To collect required data from population, survey method was used. The participants consisted of the faculty members currently working in the University of Lahore, which reflected the conditions and environment of all campuses of the University of Lahore. A simple random sampling technique was used to select the sample from population of 650 faculty members of the university. The sample size consisted of 84 faculty members in randomly selection. A questionnaire was formulated and personally managed. Therefore collected data were evaluated. Findings -- It was found that a majority of faculty members be deficient in searching catalog and its use, choice of information sources, selection of relevant sources and formulation of search strategies. Likewise, many faculty members did not successful users of the university libraries. Originality/value -- An extensive search of available literature has shown that such type of study has never been done in the faculty members of the University of Lahore. This study will definitely help to organize different information literacy programs in the university to promote and to develop the information literacy skills among faculty and to improve the teaching quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to reveal the current status of services in the Quaid-e-Azam Medical College library (QMC), Government College of Technology library (GCT) & University College of Engineering & Technology library (UCET) at Bahawalpur. The data were collected through questionnaire survey of library users along with interviews of special librarians. This study was confined only to the three special libraries of Bahawalpur. The data collected were analyzed and conclusions were drawn. The analyses revealed that services provide by the special libraries of Bahawalpur were not up to the mark and users were not satisfied with the quality of services. Libraries had not up to date material. Adequate computers and internet facility was not available in the libraries. Findings of the study can be useful for understanding the problems faced by the special libraries of remote/less-developed areas of Pakistan and other developing countries of the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is a survey of large public sector university libraries of the Punjab Province and Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) of Pakistan. The basic purpose is to get a broader understanding of users' perceptions about the library services. The survey is based on a questionnaire containing both open and close ended questions. The data were collected through mail, e-mail and personal visits. The study reveals that although respondents have shown their overall satisfaction with the library services, but the analysis of the data about users' satisfaction with major library services shows that they were not fully satisfied with their respective library services. The library users have also highlighted many problems, which they believed should be corrected. Findings of the study can be helpful for the library authorities and professionals for revisiting their library services and sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is a survey of large public sector university libraries of the Punjab Province and Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) of Pakistan. The basic purpose is to get a broader understanding of users' perceptions about the library services. The survey is based on a questionnaire containing both open and close ended questions. The data were collected through mail, e-mail and personal visits. The study reveals that although respondents have shown their overall satisfaction with the library services, but the analysis of the data about users' satisfaction with major library services shows that they were not fully satisfied with their respective library services. The library users have also highlighted many problems, which they believed should be corrected. Findings of the study can be helpful for the library authorities and professionals for revisiting their library services and sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses library and information science in Pakistan as of April 2012, with a focus on library users and their expectations concerning library and information services provision. Topics include expectations among students and university faculty, the library service quality metric LibQUAL Protocol, and LibQUAL's reliance on disconfirmation and confirmation theory. Additional information is presented on libraries at Punjab University (PU), the knowledge of library staff, and exploratory/confirmatory factor analysis (E/CFA).