REPRESENTATION AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF WOMEN LIBRARIANS IN UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES OF PAKISTAN

Abstract

Academic libraries evolve to meet the demands of the contemporary era and it is imperative to critically examine the composition of library professionals, specifically focusing on the representation and responsibilities of women librarians. The role of women in the library profession has undergone significant transformations over time, and understanding the challenges and opportunities they encounter within this dynamic environment is essential for fostering inclusivity and equality. The current study shed light on the perspectives, difficulties, and suggestions of female librarians at the university libraries in Punjab in respect of leadership practices. The current study used quantitative research approach. An extensive literature review was conducted to develop questionnaire for the current study. This questionnaire survey was shared with chief librarians, deputy chief librarians, senior librarians and librarians. Descriptive and inferential statistics was used to analyze data.

The results show that female librarians share working in different organizations 31.67% but the female’s share as a heads in different organizations is 8.2%. The most females are working in different sections like, Circulation patterns, Cataloging / Metadata Services, Acquisitions, and very low numbers of females are working in digital services / electronic resources sections. Women librarians intend to work in digital resources and library automation systems departments. Their less preferred areas are user literacy and collaboration with different stakeholders. The study also explores that female librarian indicated a need for regular evaluations and extensive training courses in this regard. The results highlight how important it is to implement gender-inclusive policies, and leadership professional development to improve the efficacy of women librarians.