The Status of Resources and Services in the Public Libraries of Sindh, Pakistan: A Study

Authors

Mohammad Hussain, Department of LIS, Khushal Khan Khattak University Karak, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, PakistanFollow
Ansa Parveen, Department of LIS, Khushal Khan Khattak University Karak, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, PakistanFollow
Dr. Khan Faqir, Pakistan Study Centre, University of Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, PakistanFollow

Date of this Version

4-3-2022

Abstract

Purpose: This study assessed the public libraries of Sindh in terms of information and human resources, services and the problems faced by the libraries in the delivery of services.

Methodology: The study was quantitative in nature and survey research method was used to achieve the desired objectives. There were 30 public libraries, which constituted the study’s population and data was collected from heads/incharge of libraries through the questionnaire. The data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 23.

Results: The heads of most libraries were non-professionals, and some libraries were worked with very few staff. The availability of information resources was found inadequate and resources such as maps, reports, theses & dissertations, rare books, and e-books were found in very few libraries. The services such as open shelf, circulation, reference and current awareness services were offered by most libraries; however, SDI, audiovisual, document reservation, interlibrary loan, orientation and scanning services were offered by few libraries. The major problems faced by the libraries were lack of training opportunities, non-availability of integrated library software, insufficient information, human and financial resources, limited e-resources and lack of commitment from the management.

Implications: The study's findings could be beneficial to the concerned authorities. The key points to be considered include 1) information resources should be procured both in printed and electronic formats, 2) the existing facilities and services should be upgraded and extended to other libraries and, 3) sufficient funds should be provided to acquire information resources, develop proper infrastructure and launched new services.

Originality: This is the first study in the province to assess the various aspects of public libraries. It will fill the literature gap and guide the researchers to explore the other aspects of public libraries.

Keywords: Information Resources, Library Services, Public Libraries, Human Resources, Sindh, Pakistan