MOBILE LIBRARY SERVICES IN UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES OF PAKISTAN: A SURVEY OF LIBRARIANS

Abstract

Access to information has changed dramatically in recent years, particularly in academic settings, thanks to the mobile libraries’ services. The current study explored the attitude of university librarians towards the use of mobile library services, actual provision of services and challenges faced for provision of services. Quantitative research approach is used and a structured questionnaire was used to gather data from 135 librarians. The results show that the views of individuals on mobile library services are largely good but the level of provision of mobile library services is not good. Despite the agreement among respondents regarding the significance of mobile library services, challenges encompass absence of framework, lack of technology appreciation, budgetary limitations and technological constraints, security and privacy issues etc. The current study suggests several recommendations. Developing technical infrastructure, growing digital collections, offering user assistance and training, raising awareness and outreach, working with technology suppliers are some suggestions for bettering mobile library services. By putting these suggestions into practice, Pakistani university libraries may better meet the information demands of researchers, teachers, and students. This study contributes to the growing body of knowledge regarding the mobile library services in underdeveloped nations.