Multitasking at Work: Examining the Role of Polychronicity in Job Satisfaction and Performance among Pakistani Academic Librarians in Lahore

Abstract

The growing complexity of library work has intensified the need for professionals to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and efficiently. This study explores the level of polychronicity amongst Library and Information Science (LIS) professionals and its relation to job satisfaction and job performance. By using the quantitative research design, a cross-sectional, self-administered, closed-ended questionnaire was circulated to collect the primary data. Library professionals of Pakistan were the population for this study. This study intended to validate Hall’s cultural dimension within a specific professional service sector to better understand the preferences and attitudes that shape the workplace. The survey outcomes revealed that Pakistani LIS professionals exhibit polychronicity, which is substantially and positively correlated with their job satisfaction and job performance. This shows that professionals' ability to handle various tasks aligns with the multi-functional nature of modern libraries, leading to contentment in their professional lives. The results provided empirical support for Hall’s theory in the South Asian professional context, thus suggesting the need for polychronic work environments. This implication of the study suggested that library administrators should workflow that aligns with multitasking preferences and to optimize staff engagement and overall performance.