An Evaluation of User-Education Programmes in the University Libraries of Pakistan

The purpose of this study was to explore and critically examine the present state of affairs regarding the provision of library user education by the university libraries of Pakistan. The study collected data by means of questionnaire, personal observation, and informal discussion with senior library staff members. Literature and Internet sources were also consulted with a purpose to explore the related studies in the field. The study indicates the need for Pakistani university libraries to improve their professional standards and to take a more active role in formulating a proper policy and aims and objectives on educating the users. Teaching the users about library structure, location and layout, resources and services is of great value. Particular importance must be given to this, to enable users to make effective and efficient use of library for independent study and research. This purpose can be achieved by developing the orientation programmes, basic bibliographic instruction and advanced bibliographic instruction based on the demands of categories of users. Various factors were found to be the contributors for inhibiting the successful execution of a quality user education programme as: lack of proper policy by the authorities, lack of assessment of library users\u27 educational and information needs, inadequate in-service training for library staff, poor response from the students and teachers, and insufficient budget for acquiring audio-visual aids. This study has practical implications for the mangers of university libraries, librarians and information specialists for developing constructive instructional programmes. It can be useful for improving the value and meaningfulness of such projects in other kind of libraries as well. Not many studies on the user education programme have been conducted in Pakistan. This research is of the perception of students, teachers and librarians about such programmes. The key points that emerge that user education has a key role for making the users true information literate. It shows that Pakistani university libraries still has a long way to go for improving their instructional programme with purpose to bring the harmony between the teaching-learning programme of the university and library services