Disaster Risk Assessment and Management Challenges Faced by University Libraries: A Case Study of Disaster-Prone Region Hazara, Pakistan

The Hazara region in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, is highly susceptible to disasters. This research investigates the types of disasters that can affect university libraries in the Hazara region and the challenges they pose. The study population consisted of university library staff from the Hazara region. Using purposive sampling, 15 semi-structured interviews were conducted with library staff in key positions. There are 5 universities in this region. The qualitative data, subjected to thematic analysis, highlighted principal themes and emerged subthemes. Two major themes were identified for the disaster types — natural and man-made disasters — while 3 major themes were identified for the challenges — funding, lack of policies, and lack of planning. The findings include natural and man-made disasters, cyberattacks, a lack of institutional policies for disaster mitigation, insufficient budgets, inadequate roads and bridges, and limited awareness of how to handle disasters. Based on these findings, specific recommendations and practical implications are provided, including policy development, training, community engagement, early warning systems, infrastructure development, resource allocation, and security systems. The study advocates for a practical approach to disaster management. The study’s conclusions and recommendations have implications for library specialists, policymakers, and shareholders in the Hazara Region and beyond.