Trends in funding of university libraries in Kenya: a survey
Abstract
Purpose
To investigate recent trends in funding and collection development in university libraries in Kenya.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper is based on primary data collected from four university libraries in Kenya as well as secondary literature relating to university libraries in Kenya.
Findings
This paper concludes that funding of university library services in Kenya is inadequate. Due to diminished governmental fund allocations for these institutions, their library collection development levels have deteriorated and are characterized by low monographic purchases and limited journal subscriptions. This decline is at odds with rapidly expanding student enrolment levels. Private universities experience these problems too, but to a lesser extent.
Originality/value
The paper recommends that to ensure that university libraries continue to provide adequate information services supporting teaching, learning and research, the adoption of a strategic plan in all areas of library management, and especially in funding and collection development, is needed.
Keywords
Citation
Muema Kavulya, J. (2006), "Trends in funding of university libraries in Kenya: a survey", The Bottom Line, Vol. 19 No. 1, pp. 22-30. https://doi.org/10.1108/08880450610643034
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2006, Emerald Group Publishing Limited