
June 3, 2024, marks a significant milestone in my professional journey, as I am thrilled to announce that I have become an Associate of the Mortenson Center 2024 Cohort. My ambitions for this learning opportunity are to:
- Comprehend the principles of sustainable development, particularly in the context of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Closely observe information literacy programs offered in U.S. academic libraries, with the intention of adapting successful practices for implementation in my home country.
- Gain exposure to transformative library roles and explore the various ways in which libraries positively impact society.
About Me:
I am Dr. Muhammad Sajid Mirza, currently serving as the Principal Librarian at the Dr. Muhammad Hamidullah Library, Islamic Research Institute, International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI), Pakistan. Over the past two decades, I have been dedicated to transforming traditional libraries into dynamic, hybrid knowledge hubs.
Education
I earned my PhD in 2012 from the University of the Punjab, Lahore, specializing in the utility of Information Technology in university libraries across Pakistan. I also hold a Master’s degree and a Post Graduate Diploma in Library Science, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Statistics from Islamia University Bahawalpur.
Professional Experience
My extensive professional experience began in 1997, serving in various capacities across prestigious institutions in Pakistan. My roles have ranged from Librarian at Govt. Gordon College Rawalpindi and Govt. Inter College Lalamusa, to Manager IRC/Library at IQRA University Lahore, and Senior Librarian at the University of the Punjab Lahore. In 2006, I joined International Islamic University as a Senior Librarian, and since 2014, I have been serving as Principal Librarian at IIUI, where I have been instrumental in modernizing the Central Library, Shariah Academy Library, Dawah Research Library, and Dr. Muhammad Hamidullah Library.
Technological Contributions and Initiatives
I have led several technology-driven initiatives, including the development of an interactive website for the Islamic Research Institute and the implementation of the Open Journal System for IIUI Journals. I have also overseen the digitization of pictorial archives and the establishment of a preservation and conservation lab.
Teaching and Training
In addition to my administrative roles, I have a rich background in teaching and training. I am teaching courses leading to a Master’s in Library & Information Science at Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad. I have conducted numerous workshops on information literacy and library publishing. I have served as a resource person in various training programs and have been actively involved in academic and administrative committees.
Research and Publications
My research interests include IT applications in libraries, reference and user services, and library resource sharing. I have supervised three MS theses and published 12 research articles in national and international journals.
Awards and Recognitions
My contributions have been recognized through numerous awards, including a fellowship from the Mortenson Center at the University of Illinois (2024 Cohort), a Bursary Award to attend the ICA Congress in Abu Dhabi, and travel awards from the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan. In 2012, I won the First Place Winner Award from the American Society of Information Science & Technology for my research on electronic resources in Pakistani university libraries.
Professional Leadership and Community Engagement
As a proactive leader, I have coordinated and participated in various national and international conferences and workshops. I am a life member of the Pakistan Library Association (PLA) and a regular member of ASIST. My initiative, the Pakistan Information Literacy and Library Movement (PAK ILLM), promotes information literacy and library use across the country.
My career reflects my dedication to enhancing library services in my organization as well as in Pakistan through innovation, education, and leadership.
Some of my reflections about this program are:
Beginning of Learning and Networking at the Mortenson Center: An Exciting Experience
Exploring Innovation: Mortenson Center’s 2024 Cohort Field Trip Highlights