Status of information technology applications in Pakistani libraries

Abstract

Purpose-The purpose of this paper is to investigate and determine the levels of information technology (IT) in Pakistani libraries. More specifically, the paper focuses on the status of computers and other commonly used hardware, e-mail, internet, library software, automated user services, expenditure on IT and online resources available in academic libraries of Pakistan. Design/methodology/approach-The data are collected through a questionnaire survey of 288 (sample of 682) academic libraries across Pakistan. A total of 219 (76 per cent) valid responses are used for data analysis and interpretation using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS). Findings-The paper finds a low level of IT availability, especially the absence of computers, e-mail and internet in few libraries. Similarly, the libraries are far behind to achieve excellent IT levels. It is found that libraries need to be fully automated using standard library software/management systems. However, access to online resources through the Higher Education Commission (HEC) is found extensive and comprehensive. The data indicate the need to enhance libraries' IT expenditure. Practical implications-The findings can be utilized to evaluate the status of different IT tools and applications. The statistical data are very useful and authentic source for planning to improve the libraries' IT infrastructure, library automation and in reducing the gap in levels of IT application in different type of libraries. Originality/value-This is a first comprehensive study that provides a complete picture along with statistical data regarding IT applications (computers and other common hardware, software, e-mail, internet, other information access technologies, applications and online resources available) in academic libraries of Pakistan.

Use of different information and communication technologies in Indian academic libraries

“…The most important problem and serious difficulty was lack of educated librarians, which requires suitable investment and planning. Ramzan and Singh (2009) investigated the levels of ICT application in academic libraries across Pakistan and found a lack of ICT infrastructure, especially the absence of computers, e-mail and internet. It was revealed that the respondent libraries needed to be fully automated using standard library software.…”

Internet connectivity in university libraries in Nigeria: the present state

“…Ramzan and Singh (2009), in their study ''status of information technology applications in Pakistani libraries'' concluded that ''because no library can function effectively without sufficient computers, printers, e-mail and Internet, library software and electronic resources in today's information driven society should be installed without delay.'' Studies have shown that undergraduate students get information about their academic work directly from the internet and do not consult academic staff or the library.…”

Application of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Dissemination of Information in Selected Special Libraries in Ilorin Metropolis, Kwara State, Nigeria

“…The finding of this study also reveals that ICT has greatly influenced the acquisition, selection, processing, library consortium, organization, dissemination and tracking record of library users in the library. Ramzan and Singh (2009) support that's easy integration of various library activities, increases efficiency in the acquisition, access to data, cataloguing, classification, information retrieval and dissemination.…”

“…The application of ICThas enhanced accessibility to information worldwide and as a result of the invention of the internet and through it, wide-angle information materials are made available in various formats thereby increasing accessibility to information. Ramzan and Singh (2009) observed that easy integration of various library activities, increases efficiency in the acquisition, access to data, cataloguing, classification, information retrieval and dissemination. It eliminates/reduces repetitive work; helps avoid duplication of information resources; increases the range of services; provide marketing opportunities; facilitates cooperation and the formation of networks and resources sharing in libraries.…”