Web-Accessible Catalogs of Emirati Academic Libraries: A Comparative Evaluative Study of Search, Retrieval, and Sorting Capabilities

Abstract

This research examines web-accessible catalogs of Emirati academic libraries as essential tools for bibliographic information retrieval and remote access to library resources. The study begins from the transformations brought by the Internet and network technologies to library services, particularly the shift from traditional catalogs to online public access catalogs. It aims to identify and compare the capabilities of selected academic library catalogs in the United Arab Emirates in terms of searching, retrieval, and sorting, and to assess these capabilities against international standards and practices. The article highlights the importance of online catalogs in enabling users to identify bibliographic records, item status, locations, and access points. The study covers several university library catalogs in the UAE, including the United Arab Emirates University Library, Khalifa University of Science, Technology and Research Library, Zayed University Library, University of Sharjah Library, Ajman University of Science and Technology Library, and the Higher Colleges of Technology Libraries. The preliminary results visible in the attached pages indicate significant variation among the catalogs in their automated systems, interfaces, access points, and search options, suggesting the need to improve catalog functionality and retrieval quality in line with recognized service standards.