The Readiness of the Faculty of Arts Library at Al-Marqab University (Al-Khums) for Digital Libraries

Abstract

This study aims to examine the reality of digitizing the library at the Faculty of Arts – University of Al-Mergeb and to propose an integrated digital system for preserving library holdings and facilitating access. The research adopted the descriptive analytical method, collecting field data via a questionnaire distributed to a sample of 148 users and staff, which were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The results revealed significant shortcomings in the library's current state, manifested in difficult access to collections and a lack of accurate catalogs, coupled with a severe shortage of technical capabilities, including hardware, software, infrastructure, and trained human resources, despite high awareness of the importance of digital transformation among all user groups. The study also identified the most prominent challenges facing this digitization effort as lack of funding and administrative and organizational difficulties. On the practical side, the research proposed a comprehensive design for a digital system that enables effective resource management and electronic search, demonstrating the feasibility of implementing a practical solution to overcome existing problems. The study concluded by emphasizing the urgent need to adopt a comprehensive strategy for the library's digital transformation, supported by adequate funding, specialized training, and the establishment of necessary policies to ensure its success and sustainability, thereby enhancing the quality of academic and research services at the faculty.