Technical Challenges Facing the Management of University Libraries – The Central Library of the University of Baghdad as a Model

Abstract

The current research aims to identify the current state of the Central Library of the Baghdad University and to explore the challenges faced by its staff in managing the library, as well as the obstacles that hinder users from fully benefiting from its services. The researcher adopted the descriptive-analytical method and employed tools such as interviews and personal observation, in addition to developing two measurement scales—one for staff and the other for users—as instruments for data collection. Questionnaires were distributed to 100 staff members and 100 users. After analyzing the results, the researcher reached several findings, including: staff responses indicate a clear awareness of technical challenges such as the lack of digital content, insufficient funding, and the need to update equipment, with noticeable disparities in infrastructure levels among the library’s departments. Similarly, users’ responses highlighted that poor internet quality and weak network integration are among the most pressing challenges, accompanied by a moderate level of satisfaction regarding digital content and available equipment.

The study concluded with several recommendations, including:

Enhancing funding for the technical sector, through allocating stable and sufficient budgets for developing technical infrastructure, maintaining devices, and updating software in line with current technological advancements.

Upgrading technical equipment, by replacing outdated devices to ensure the delivery of efficient and seamless digital services to users.

Developing and training human resources, with an emphasis on hiring qualified technical staff and implementing regular training programs to update employees’ skills in the field of information technology.