Educating future librarians in Pakistan – a library educator's perspective

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Haider, Syed Jalaluddin

Affiliations: Department of Library and Information Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi – 75270, Pakistan

Abstract: Unplanned expansion of library education facilities has affected the quality of library manpower. Various constraints encountered by library schools in their effort to improve the situation are discussed and suggestions are offered. Bright students are not attracted to library schools because of low status according to librarians in the society. Traditional courses dominate the curriculum, with very little emphasis on computer and media courses. The existing faculty lacks competence for the teaching of courses relating to information technology. The teaching methodology is primarily characterized by traditional class-room lecture, supported by practical work. The existing facilities for conducting practicals are not satisfactory with few bibliographical and reference tools available together with a lack of equipment. The most recently published books are seldom available, while there is an absence of periodical literature. Continuing education is confined to the organization of courses in computer applications by the Pakistan Library Association and its branches. The distance education programme needs improvement in order to avoid further criticism. Both M.Phil. and Ph.D. programmes are still in their initial phases and are under scrutiny constantly by academics.

DOI: 10.3233/EFI-1998-16103

Journal: Education for Information, vol. 16, no. 1, pp. 29-44, 1998