Status of information technology applications in Pakistani libraries

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.