Digital data sets management in university libraries: challenges and opportunities

Abstract

Purpose The study aims to identify the prospects and challenges associated with current practices regarding digital data sets management in university libraries in Pakistan. Design/methodology/approach A cross-sectional survey approach was used to collect the data from library and information science (LIS) professionals working in public sector university libraries in Pakistan. A four-part questionnaire was used to collect the data from the respondents. The collected data from 371 participants were analyzed using a statistical package for social sciences (SPSS-24 version) and analysis of moment structure (AMOS-24). Findings LIS professionals are better placed to support digital data management practices, such as finding, collecting, assessing and analyzing digital data sets and making digital data publicly discoverable and accessible via open access. In spite of this, a lack of leadership support, interest and cooperation among university departments and the absence of a data management plan, policies and procedures were reported as significant challenges. Practical implications To meet the needs of data users, LIS professionals must become knowledgeable about managing and reusing digital data sets. Due to the demands of the information society, university librarians need to learn about data-centric practices that can enhance research outputs and provide new insights. Originality/value This research paper is extracted from a PhD dissertation to present a contemporary picture of library data management services and the challenges LIS professionals face to provide possible solutions.

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Strategies for Managing Born-Digital Record in University Libraries: A Study of Federal University of Petroleum Resources Effurun

“…These methodologies could offer FUPRE valuable insights into handling similar challenges, especially those related to obsolete media formats and the sheer volume of digital files. Moreover, the study on digital data sets management in Pakistani university libraries by Shah et al (2023) presents a broader perspective on the opportunities and challenges inherent in digital data management, including the critical need for leadership support and comprehensive data management planning. This aspect resonates with the strategic requirements at FUPRE, where enhancing digital records management practices necessitates addressing infrastructural and policyrelated challenges while focusing on meeting the diverse needs of data users.…”