Library websites of Pakistani universities: an exploratory study

Abstract

Library websites are built to provide information to its users remotely and are platforms to offer many electronic services to its valued members and users. Library websites of Pakistani universities recognized by the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan are explored to find out the existence of library websites and their features. Through the review of literature a check list is prepared and then websites are surveyed and features found on them are reported against the checklist. Higher percentage of university library websites exists in public sector as compared to private sector institutions. A significant number of library websites found having less than three pages. Website aid tools including site index and FAQs; instructions/ tutorials about library use and information about library newsletter are rarely found on library web pages. More than 95% libraries are providing access to HEC digital library but university ownsubscribed digital resources are very rare. Use of Web 2.0 including facebook, youtube, twitter and RSS feed are found on only few (19%) library websites.