Enhancing Public Library Services: A Future Outlook on Digital Libraries in Pakistan

Authors

Muhammad Sohail Haider, School of Information Management Science, Nanjing University, ChinaFollow
Chen Ya Prof, School of Information Management Science, Nanjing University, ChinaFollow
Md. Nurul Islam, School of Information Management Science, Nanjing University, ChinaFollow
Muhammad Danyal, Dept of Library and Information Science, Khushal Khan Khattak University Karak ,KPKFollow
Muhammad Hussain, Dept of Library and Information Science, Khushal Khan Khattak University Karak ,KPKFollow

Date of this Version

Winter 11-30-2023

Comments

No Comments

Abstract

Objective: Governments consistently aim to enhance services and establish online connections to efficiently deliver necessary information. This study aims to evaluate the future potential of digital libraries in public libraries in Pakistan by examining various projects that have introduced innovative approaches to foster the development of digital library services.

Methodology: The analysis utilized the Amos 24 version, employing the Structural Equation Model (SEM) for assessing model fit indices and validating hypotheses. Additionally, Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24 was employed for Pearson correlation and factor analysis.

Findings: The results suggest the appropriateness of discussing three out of the seven elements/factors used to assess competence improvement. The study reveals that public library managers can offer both physical and online workshops to community members, addressing emotional management for customers, including children and adults, during post-crisis information retrieval.

Practical Implications: The study on public library user literacy skills, user behavior, and digital resources and services integrates the exploration and development of online databases to address challenges faced by public library management and users amidst the information explosion in academic and research activities. This contributes to enhancing the satisfaction levels of public library users.

Originality/Value: Librarians are encouraged to conduct online workshops to address challenges faced by research students in information-seeking scenarios, focusing on improving reading and literacy skills, understanding user behavior, and optimizing digital resources and services through a study of online databases.