An analytical study of Problems facing College Libraries in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

This study aimed to analyse the problems facing college libraries in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. For conducting this research study, the researcher adopted a mixed-method research design. A literature-based questionnaire was administered amongst the 221 professional librarians serving in college libraries, in which 186 librarians responded to the questionnaire. The response rate of the study was 84%. To obtain in-depth information, qualitative research was conducted. Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted of the 15 senior librarians and M. Phil and Ph. D Scholars (librarians). The interview data was further analyzed thematically. The results revealed that the majority of college libraries faced a number of issues and challenges, such as lack of ICT tools, human resources, information resources, and financial resources, absence of a library committee, shortage of library tools (i.e., DDC set, AACR II/RDA, Sears List of Subject Heading), unfavorable book write-off policy, book theft, lack of a separate building and physical facilities, the non-cooperative attitude of the higher authorities. These problems need to be resolved to enable the college libraries to play an effective role in the teaching and learning process