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Integrating Web 2.0 into an academic library in Tanzania

Edda Tandi Lwoga (Directorate of Library Services, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania)

The Electronic Library

ISSN: 0264-0473

Article publication date: 1 April 2014

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Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to demonstrate work undertaken by Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS) Library in an effort to integrate Web 2.0 technologies in its functions to enhance the quality of its services in Tanzania.

Design/methodology/approach

The study conducted an exploratory questionnaire survey to assess user requirements among undergraduate medical students at MUHAS, developed Library 2.0 services, conducted training and created awareness.

Findings

The paper shows that Web 2.0 technologies can be implemented effectively according to university goals, user's needs, deployment of user friendly tools, and capacity building among librarians and users. Students positively supported the adoption of Library 2.0 services at MUHAS. Library 2.0 services improved the quality of MUHAS library services, despite various challenges related to infrastructure, awareness, literacy, inadequate staff, security and ownership of Web 2.0 services.

Research limitations/implications

The study findings may not be widely replicated because this article is based on a case study of the integration of Web 2.0 technologies into the library functions of MUHAS. This study did not examine the use of Library 2.0 applications among library users (such as faculty and students) which could illuminate further the case study.

Practical implications

Most academic libraries in Africa have not yet adopted Web 2.0 technologies to improve their services. The user preferences, technology adoption, and challenges faced from the present study can help other libraries to plan and integrate their Library 2.0 technologies in their services.

Originality/value

MUHAS Library offers a practical example of how Web 2.0 services can be adopted to enhance the quality of academic library services in an African context. This paper is of significance to academic libraries that are still considering their options with regard to the application of Web 2.0 technologies.

Keywords

Citation

Tandi Lwoga, E. (2014), "Integrating Web 2.0 into an academic library in Tanzania", The Electronic Library, Vol. 32 No. 2, pp. 183-202. https://doi.org/10.1108/EL-06-2012-0058

Publisher

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Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2014, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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