Appraisal of Special Academic Libraries in Southern Punjab: A survey of users.

The aim of the study is to explore the service status of special academic libraries of Southern Punjab, Pakistan. It is imperative that the development of the library and its services must be evaluated from time to time in order to bring continuous improvement and qualitative change in the overall functioning of the libraries. The region of Southern Punjab, Pakistan has always been ignored in terms of education, development and progress. The data we recollected through questionnaire survey from library patrons of special academic libraries, for the purpose 160 questionnaires were distributed in the different institutes of Southern Punjab. The return response rate was 75%. The analysis revealed that library users are not satisfied with library services e.g. reading material, circulation, reference and e-services. The libraries of Southern Punjab are facing many problems due to remote/ less development. The recommendations have been formulated to the conclusions of the study like measures for better library services from the institutes, provision of e-library services, hiring of qualified and trained library staff. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]