Strategies for the effective implementation of information literacy instruction in medical libraries of Pakistan

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to propose appropriate strategies that could be adopted for the effective implementation of information literacy (IL) instruction in academic medical libraries of Pakistan. Head librarians of academic medical institutions were surveyed using a semi-structured questionnaire. The results have revealed that IL skills of library users have been perceived by the head librarians as inadequate. Respondents identified workshops/seminars and formal in-class teaching as part of the main curriculum as the most effective IL instruction delivery methods. The majority of the respondents were in favor of integrating IL instruction into the curriculum as a credit course. An overwhelming majority of the respondents was of the opinion that both librarians and faculty should design IL curriculum. However, respondents were divided and undecided regarding the role of the teaching faculty in imparting IL instruction.