Gray Literature and Academic Libraries: How Do They Access, Use, Manage, and Cope with Gray Literature

Abstract

Gray literature is considered an important source of factual and up-to-date information however it is often neglected doing empirical research. It is first study in context of Pakistan that explores gray literature, its access, usage, management and issues faced by academic libraries. A self-developed questionnaire was employed to collect data from a total of 74 respondents (one respondent from each university preferably serial librarian or in charge) working in university libraries of Punjab Province and Islamabad (the capital city) Pakistan. Only one and concerned library and information science (LIS) professional involved in collection development process/department was approached. The findings of the study revealed that three major types of gray literature accessed by academic libraries were theses/dissertations, annual reports and catalogues. The theses/dissertations are accessed by libraries as a follow-up of parent organizational policy. The gray literature is shelved separately and prominently in the libraries; however, non-availability of proper collection development policy for gray literature emerged as major issue in academic libraries followed by budgetary constraints and lack of awareness. The t-test result revealed the need of various types of gray literature in libraries and also highlights creating awareness of various types of gray literature among the library community. The finding of the study is the helpful for university authorities, academic libraries and working library professionals to manage gray literature in a better way and increase the usage of gray literature in academic writing.

Keywords:

• Academic libraries
• collection development
• gray literature
• issues of gray literature
• management of gray literature