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This paper intends to investigate the existing reference services and resources in the University Libraries of Lahore (ULL), Pakistan. Keeping in view the importance of reference services, many studies have been conducted in the developed world, but in Pakistan the situation is not encouraging. Very few studies are conducted to find out the status of reference services in different libraries of Pakistan but there is no data available on reference services of ULL. Keeping in view the gaps and need of the time, the basic purpose of this survey is to get the broad understanding about different aspects of reference services especially the types of reference services, collection, staff, budget, physical facilities and digital reference services. The survey is limited to all ULL (N=17). The data was collected through mail, e-mail and personal visits. Findings of the study can be helpful for the library authorities and professionals for revisiting their reference services and sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are more than 300 libraries in Lahore. The libraries of Lahore occupied respectable place in the pre-partition India so much that the city was then called the cradle of library movement of the country. Its two libraries, the Punjab Public Library (founded 1884) and the Punjab University Library (founded 1873) held an important place in the subcontinent. Best libraries of Pakistan are pride of this city. Quaid-i-Azam Library, Diyal Singh Trust Library and GCU Library are one of them. But no resource-sharing network exists among these major and renowned libraries. This paper is an attempt to present a proposal to establish a Resource Sharing network among major libraries of Lahore. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surveying the growth of public libraries in Pakistan prior to and following independence, this paper shows that development has been at best a piecemeal affair and at worst non-existent. Although some libraries seek to fulfil their goal of providing quality service to the public, most are hampered by overwhelming economic, social and educational problems. Notwithstanding this gloomy scenario, it is suggested that library planning based on awareness of indigenous needs and with realistic aims can achieve far more than has been the case in the past. Six factors are suggested as essential in any effective public library planning process in Pakistan; these may be valid in other developing countries as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]