INTRODUCTION

Before the advent of information and communication technology the

information processing was manual or of mental nature .organization were small

in members, smaller in scale and was less in complex. With the passage of time,

gradual changes and growth in technological developments brought about radical

changes in production, communication and hence living styles have also been

changed. This has changes the structure of organization also. Due to these

realities a need for sophisticated information processing was felt among the

organizations particularly in libraries. Further to meet the continued and

mounting pressure and to improve the efficiency of libraries y improving the

efficiency of its working force, led mangers to employ ICT to improve

information processing.

ICT (information and communications technology or technologies) is an umbrella term that

includes any communication device or application, encompassing: radio, television, cellular

phones, computer and network hardware, software, satellite systems and so on, as well as

the various services and applications associated with them, such as videoconferencing and

distance learning.

Information & Communications Technology is a term that covers all forms of

computer and communications equipment and software used to create, store,

transmit, interpret, and manipulate information in its various formats (e.g.,

business data, voice conversations, images, motion pictures and multimedia

presentations). The study of ICT is the combinations of many disciplines and

principles which based in mathematics, logic, physics and psychology. Its tools

can be used to find, explore, analyze, exchange and present information

 responsibly and without discrimination. ICT can give users quick access to ideas

and experiences from a wide range of people, communities and cultures.

Many countries around the world have established organizations for the

promotion of ICTs, because it is feared that unless less technologically advanced

areas have a chance to catch up, the increasing technological advances in

developed nations will only serve to exacerbate the already-existing economic

gap between technological "have" and "have not" areas. Internationally, the

United Nations actively promotes ICTs for Development (ICT4D) as a means of

bridging the digital divide.

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is a shorthand for the

computers, software, networks, satellite links and related systems that allow

people to access, analyze, create, exchange and use data, information, and

knowledge in ways that until recently, were almost unimaginable.

Today, it is widely acknowledged that a country’s socio-economic growth is

positively linked to her ICT development and adoption. It is said to have the

potential to reduce cost, enhance productivity and add economic value.

Many developed countries have attained leadership position through massive

investment and adoption of ICT.

ICTs are often spoken of in a particular context, such as ICTs in education, health care and

libraries. It has influenced all walks of life such as culture, societal patterns and institutions.
Shafique and Mahmood, 2008 report that the “use of modern ICTs is on the rise

in Pakistan”.

Kanwal Ameen, 2010 it is needed in a world that is connected through digital

signals. Libraries in Pakistan are embracing digital technologies to provide online

access to in-house and remote collections, create web sites and web OPACS,

internet lab, and different public services.

The rapid developments in Information Communication and Technologies

(ICTs) have

Made tremendous changes in the twenty-first century, as well as affected the

demands of modern societies.

Ebenezer Malcolm what is actually happening on the ground, what are the

strategies and policies related to the use of ICTs? Information and

communication technologies have become indispensable tools in today’s

information age, making a dramatic impact on the lives of people globally. This

effect is most significant in libraries.

Ajayi, (2003) consider that any industry that sidelines ICT has simply signed a

"death warrant" on its continued relevance. The library represents one area that

has experienced this revolution. The fact that we live in knowledge based society

with the need for universal access has made it necessary for the library to

redefine its role and mode of service delivery.

Aina, 2004 Information and communication technology (ICT) has radically

transformed most of the services provided by a library. It is heavily utilized in the

storage, processing and dissemination of information. It has made the

organization of information very efficient, the delivery of basic information

services more effective and the dissemination of information to users easier. It

has eliminated a lot of routine and repetitive tasks in a library. ICT is now a core

component of any library and information science curriculum at all levels. Any

modern library and information professional must be knowledgeable in library

automation, networking, Internet surfing, database management processing

software, statistical software, etc. The emphasis was on how ICTs are currently

being used in the libraries sector. What are the common challenges or constraints

faced by KPK university libraries in the area of ICT?

Kanwal Ameen, 2010 the future job market is promising for those professionals

who are competent enough to use ICT for library operations and services, have

leadership traits, and good communication skills.

Background of the study:-

It is said that the history of libraries is a history of service and change, for the

Most part change at a slow pace.