By Sheikh M. Arshad
Director General, Department of Libraries, Islamabad.
In the modern knowledge-based economy, libraries have emerged as powerful engines of national development. They are no longer mere storehouses of books; instead, they are dynamic institutions that contribute to education, research, social inclusion, economic empowerment, and informed citizenship. In the case of Pakistan—a country grappling with challenges of literacy, digital divide, and access to information, libraries hold the potential to bridge critical gaps and foster sustainable development.
Nations that invest in libraries invest in human capital. Libraries serve as public access points for education and lifelong learning. According to UNESCO, libraries are “essential to the information society” and are crucial in achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, which promotes inclusive and equitable quality education. In Pakistan, public and academic libraries alike support this mission by catering to students, researchers, and the general public.
The Department of Libraries, Islamabad, is playing a pivotal role in developing a network of public libraries across the federal capital. These institutions offer free access to books, journals, newspapers, and increasingly, digital resources. The National Library of Pakistan, for instance, is not only a legal depository of printed materials but also a knowledge hub for researchers and policymakers.
In a country where the literacy rate is around 60%, public libraries can act as catalysts for reading and learning, especially among marginalized communities. Mobile library initiatives, reading programs for children, and partnerships with schools and colleges are ways in which libraries promote early literacy and academic success. Additionally, university libraries play a vital role in supporting higher education and research by providing access to global academic databases and interlibrary loan services.
As Pakistan moves toward digital transformation, libraries are adapting to remain relevant. The Digital Library Program, launched by the Higher Education Commission (HEC), provides access to thousands of research journals, books, and databases to students and faculty across the country. Such initiatives have democratized access to knowledge and narrowed the information gap between urban and rural regions. However, significant work remains. Internet connectivity, digital literacy, and funding constraints limit the full potential of digital libraries. A collaborative effort between federal and provincial governments is necessary to ensure that libraries are fully integrated into the national digital infrastructure.
Libraries are also social institutions. They promote tolerance, inclusion, cultural preservation, and civic engagement. In Pakistan’s diverse and pluralistic society, libraries provide neutral spaces where individuals from different backgrounds can access information, express ideas, and participate in community life. Furthermore, libraries contribute to good governance by facilitating access to legal and governmental information. The availability of parliamentary debates, policy documents, and law archives in major public and university libraries enhances transparency and enables informed public participation.
To fully harness the role of libraries in national development, several steps are needed. First, government investment in library infrastructure must be protected and enhanced to support staffing, resource development, and community outreach. Second, the adoption of a comprehensive national library policy can provide strategic direction and legal support for consistent library development across regions. Third, continuous training and development of library professionals are essential to equip them with the skills needed to manage modern, technology-driven information environments. Finally, libraries must strengthen community engagement through outreach services, targeting underserved populations such as women, persons with disabilities, and rural communities.
In the 21st century, the success of nations will depend not only on physical infrastructure but also on the strength of their knowledge systems. Libraries, as institutions of empowerment and enlightenment, must be recognized as essential partners in Pakistan’s journey toward national development. As we envision a more educated, informed, and inclusive society, revitalizing and investing in our libraries is no longer optional—it is imperative.
