Digital Literacy in Academic Libraries: Assessing Skills and Challenges among Library Professionals in Pakistani Universities

सार

The purpose of the current study is to examine digital literacy in academic libraries to assess the skills and challenges among library professionals in Pakistan. Digital literacy, including various platforms, has become a new norm in the education system. The origin of all educational activities is in a library. Most advanced and updated libraries encourage the generations to move forward. This study has examined digital literacy skills (DLS) such as computer literacy, information retrieval, software literacy, and research software literacy and their relationship with innovative library services (ILS) such as reference services and OPAC, as well as mobile-based services. This quantitative study is based on a questionnaire to collect data from 238 university librarians in Pakistan. The findings revealed that head librarians are proficient in DLS, including virtual desks, query management, e-doc delivery, web-based services, and OPAC services. The mean score on communication applications (M=3.73), PowerPoint (M=3.68), and Microsoft Word (M=3.67) indicates that respondents have very good skills in performing basic computer operations, according to the five-point scale (1=Poor to 5=Excellent). Skill areas on database applications (M=3.43) and operating systems (M=3.14) are closer to the 'good' category and reflect areas where improvement can be made. However,  they are weak in advanced-level library services, use of Dropbox, QR codes, OCR services, and RFID technology. There are several challenges to the head librarians: lack of trained staff (M=3.83), HEC policies (M=3.65), organizational culture (M=3.80), and lack of funds (M=3.75). The study's findings reveal that university librarians' DL skills are important and necessary for offering better library services. This study contributes valuable insights for policymakers, educational institutions, and LIS professionals by emphasizing the need for targeted professional development programs, technological infrastructure investment, and supportive organizational policies. The findings advocate for a strategic framework to bridge skill gaps and empower university libraries to adapt effectively to the ever-changing digital landscape.