Collection Development and Management in The Public Libraries of Pakistan: A Survey of Users’ Satisfaction

Abstract

This study is an attempt to evaluate the effectiveness of collection development and management policies and procedures in the public libraries in the Province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan on the basis of users’ satisfaction. A survey method was employed to conduct the research. The study covered all public libraries (N=18) of the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The population of the study was the registered users of public libraries who were purposively selected at the rate of 20 per library (18X20=360). A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from the target population. Out of 360 users’, 300(83%) filled in questionnaires were received. Results of the study indicate that the opinion of users regarding various library resources and services were positive and they acknowledge the role of public library in society. They mentioned that public libraries in the province are playing a leading role in the preservation of local literature, promoting women literacy, general literacy and distance education.  Users were satisfied that public libraries in province are organized and all citizens can use them. On the other hand, they were not satisfied with availability electronic, digital resources and ICTs facilities in the public libraries of the province. The study suggests users orientated services in the public libraries of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.