Developing a union catalogue of Pakistani University libraries: status, problems, and prospects

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Publicat a:Digital Library Perspectives vol. 40, no. 1 (2024), p. 96-112
Autor principal: Muhammad Ijaz Mairaj
Altres autors: Mukaram, Mahsham
Publicat:
Emerald Group Publishing Limited
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Accés en línia:Citation/Abstract
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Resum:PurposeThis study aims to examine the status, explores the hurdles and identifies the prospects for developing a union catalogue of university libraries in Lahore, Pakistan.Design/methodology/approachFollowing a quantitative research approach, a questionnaire was developed from literature and authors’ experience. After ensuring its validity and reliability, data were collected from librarians after the census. A total of 105 librarians were approached, of whom 73 (71%) responded to the survey.FindingsUniversity libraries in Lahore are well organized, have adequate collections and information technology-literate staff, are well automated, have good internet connections, are equipped with integrated software, follow cataloguing rules and MARC standards; however, the absence of standardized software, lack of funds, absence of uniform policy, professional workload and absence of standardized vocabulary are significant challenges. Private-sector librarians reported facing more challenges. Librarians consider all prospects vital for developing a union catalogue. These prospects include the availability of relevant information, incentives to librarians, coordination with librarians, a realization that sharing is caring, the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan taking initiative and librarians’ training.Research limitations/implicationsUniversity librarians in Lahore are ready to cooperate with the development of a union catalogue; however, they seek support from higher authorities, professional library associations and the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is the first of its kind that examines the status, explores the hurdles and identifies the prospects for developing a union catalogue of university libraries in Lahore. It would lead to the development of a union catalogue of university libraries in Pakistan.
ISSN:2059-5816
2059-5824
8756-5196
1065-075X
2054-1694
DOI:10.1108/DLP-07-2023-0062
Font:Library Science Database