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Article
Publication date: 1 January 1990

A. Anaba Alemna

There are now three Universities in Ghana with a total enrollment of about 10,000 students. The oldest and largest is the University of Ghana, Legon, which was established in 1948…

Abstract

There are now three Universities in Ghana with a total enrollment of about 10,000 students. The oldest and largest is the University of Ghana, Legon, which was established in 1948 as a University College preparing students for the degrees of the University of London. The University of Science and Technology at Kumasi was the second to be established in the country. It started as a College of Technology in 1951 and was raised to University status in 1961. The University of Cape Coast came into being in 1962, mainly to produce graduate teachers for expanding secondary schools and teacher‐training colleges. All the universities have libraries which provide services to faculty members, scholars and students. The number of books allowed to be borrowed, however, depends on the status of the user, with faculty members having more privileges than students at all the universities.

Details

Collection Building, vol. 10 no. 1/2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0160-4953

Article
Publication date: 1 June 2000

R.T. Mulimila

The information environment of a given society currently revolves around the ability to use and manipulate information technologies. This paper reviews the trend of information…

1237

Abstract

The information environment of a given society currently revolves around the ability to use and manipulate information technologies. This paper reviews the trend of information technology (IT) applications in East Africa government‐owned university libraries for the ten years 1987‐1997. By 1997, East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda) had only eight government‐owned university libraries. The trend of IT applications in those libraries was surveyed using a questionnaire and review of available literature. It was revealed that the extent of IT applications in those libraries from 1987‐1997 was very limited. By 1997, only one government‐owned university library in East Africa had automated its library catalogue and books circulation control. Financial resources and lack of trained manpower in IT remained the most critical obstacles in the application of information technology in East Africa government‐owned university libraries.

Details

Library Review, vol. 49 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0024-2535

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 July 2006

I.V. Malhan

This paper discusses the problems and challenges of change management in the university libraries to facilitate their growth, resources management and service performance similar…

3688

Abstract

Purpose

This paper discusses the problems and challenges of change management in the university libraries to facilitate their growth, resources management and service performance similar to the work culture of the corporate sector.

Design/methodology/approach

Discusses the changing face of Indian university libraries. Describes the developing corporate culture in the university libraries and explores the ways the university libraries can manage change. Presents a case study of managing change at the University of Jammu Library.

Findings

This study reveals the complexities of change management in the university libraries and indicates that the university leadership, the library manager, and the professional staff play a key role in affecting change in the university libraries. Highlights that change management and staff development go hand in hand. The paper points to the fact that evaluation and review processes of the universities for accreditation, grading, and certification also help to a great extent to facilitate and manage change. The university libraries may adopt the work culture of the corporate sector for building their collections, managing their finances, training their staff, upgrading their technologies, ameliorating their operations, but for rendering their services they must ensure humanism in practice.

Originality/value

Problem areas identified and strategies tested provide an important input to the university librarians for effectively managing change in the university libraries.

Details

Library Management, vol. 27 no. 6/7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-5124

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 April 2014

Kingdom Hudron Kari and Ebikabowei Emmanuel Baro

– The study aimed to look at the library software in use in Nigerian university libraries, and the challenges and frustrations experienced in their automation projects.

5295

Abstract

Purpose

The study aimed to look at the library software in use in Nigerian university libraries, and the challenges and frustrations experienced in their automation projects.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts a descriptive survey method and covers university libraries in Nigeria. A questionnaire was used to collect data from 32 university libraries in Nigeria.

Findings

The study revealed that university libraries in Nigeria widely use library software such as KOHA, SLAM and VIRTUA for their library operations. Challenges such as lack of skilled manpower, lack of fund, absence of modern systems (computers) and erratic power supply were identified as the major problems university libraries in Nigeria encountered while using library software. Librarians recommended the use of KOHA, SLAM or VIRTUA library software for use by university libraries that are in search for library software to use.

Originality/value

The findings of this study will provide useful information to librarians and library administrators in Nigeria and other developing countries who want to automate their library operations.

Details

Library Hi Tech News, vol. 31 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0741-9058

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 May 2008

C.O. Ajidahun

This study aims to investigate and examine the acquisition practices in the Nigerian University Libraries.

982

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate and examine the acquisition practices in the Nigerian University Libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 42 copies of a questionnaire entitled: “Collection Development in University Libraries Questionnaire” were mailed to all the 42 state and federal university libraries in Nigeria excluding the private university libraries. Only 18 university libraries returned their questionnaires that were used for the study.

Findings

Results show that acquisition of books in Nigerian university libraries is done mostly through purchase. In addition, Nigerian university libraries patronize the British‐based multinational publishers more than the local booksellers for their acquisitions. The study further shows that payments made to book vendors in Nigeria are taxed by Nigerian universities.

Originality/value

The paper provides useful suggestions that can enhance the acquisition practices in Nigerian university libraries.

Details

Library Management, vol. 29 no. 4/5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-5124

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 December 2005

Okon E. Ani, Jacob E. Esin and Nkoyo Edem

This study aims to investigate the extent of adoption of information and communication technology (ICT) in university libraries in Nigeria.

7620

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the extent of adoption of information and communication technology (ICT) in university libraries in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

Postal survey was the instrument used for data collection. Almost 60 per cent of the University Librarians out of the 29 university libraries surveyed completed their questionnaires.

Findings

The results of the survey show that only six university libraries are fully “computerized”, nine are “about to be computerized”; seven of the surveyed libraries have installed local area networks, five have online public access catalogue and only four libraries provide internet service. The major obstacles that influence effective adoption of ICT in university libraries are inadequate funds and the poor state of electricity in Nigeria.

Practical implications

The federal government should increase the present level of funding of Nigerian university to improve the library development fund, which is the major source of funding available to university libraries. The poor state of electricity in Nigeria should also be improved by the federal government for sustainable adoption of ICT by university libraries.

Originality/value

The paper proposes that computer networking of university libraries is feasible and recommends the development of the Nigerian university libraries network and academic libraries network.

Details

The Electronic Library, vol. 23 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-0473

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 April 2013

Elisha Ondieki Makori

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the adoption of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology in handling and supporting information services and activities in…

5509

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the adoption of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology in handling and supporting information services and activities in Kenyan university libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilized a survey research design to collect data, ideas, opinions, views and suggestions from the respondents drawn from various university libraries in Kenya. Collecting data and getting in‐depth information from the respondents was done using a web‐based structured questionnaire, document analysis and participant observation.

Findings

The findings from the study show that few university libraries in Kenya are using radio frequency identification technology to handle and support information services and activities. The study also found various problems hindering the adoption of the technology, such as a lack of information communication technology (ICT) policies, lack of a business approach, limited market opportunities, lack of lobbying or negotiating skills, inadequate funding and budgeting, and lack of ICT competencies and skills. The study recommends that library ICT professionals, information professionals and other stakeholders should make tireless efforts to implement and use RFID technology with the view to building, strengthening, improving and supporting information work and activities in university libraries.

Research limitations/implications

The study involved RFID technology, a relatively new and emerging innovation in university library and information systems, especially in the Kenyan context. The study also involved university libraries in Kenya that provide and support the fundamental functions of their respective universities.

Practical implications

Fundamentally, library ICT professionals, information professionals and other stakeholders need to take appropriate measures to address issues affecting the use of RFID solutions. There is a need to empower university libraries and information professionals with the right mix of ICT knowledge and skills necessary in the modern information environment.

Social implications

Across the world, university libraries are increasingly adopting and implementing RFID solutions in order to handle and support information work and activities. Of critical importance to the discussion is the extent to which university libraries in Kenya are using this technology to handle and support information work and activities effectively and efficiently. Proper management of library operations and services is necessary in university library and information systems.

Originality/value

The focus of the study was to assess the extent to which university libraries in Kenya are adopting and using RFID systems in information work and activities. This research is useful in providing a point of reference for university libraries and information professionals, increasingly going for similar solutions in Kenya and Africa in general.

Details

The Electronic Library, vol. 31 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-0473

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 10 August 2012

Stella Anasi and Hussaini Ali

The purpose of this paper is to examine the barriers to effective resource sharing among academic libraries in Nigeria.

1358

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the barriers to effective resource sharing among academic libraries in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

Professional librarians from six randomly selected federal university libraries representing the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria were surveyed using a descriptive survey research design. Questionnaires were sent to 124 librarians; 85 were returned and found to be usable, for a response rate of 68.5 per cent.

Findings

The study revealed that the prospect for resource sharing among university libraries in Nigeria is high. However, factors that hinder effective resource sharing include inadequate funding, a dearth of skilled librarians, power outages, an absence of web‐accessible OPACs, uneven development of libraries, and slow progress of library automation. It is recommended that each university library have a specific annual budget allocation for ICT development and maintenance and for training of librarians to pilot resource sharing projects.

Originality/value

This paper presents resource‐sharing challenges facing academic libraries in Nigeria. It encourages information professionals to embark on capacity building for effective resource sharing. This paper was prepared for the 12th Interlending and Document Supply Conference, held in September 2011.

Details

Interlending & Document Supply, vol. 40 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-1615

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 March 1994

John Edu Korsah

In all the three oldest established universities in Ghana, namely,University of Ghana, University of Science and Technology and Universityof Cape Coast, there exist Library Boards…

1456

Abstract

In all the three oldest established universities in Ghana, namely, University of Ghana, University of Science and Technology and University of Cape Coast, there exist Library Boards which are considered statutory committees of the various Academic Boards. Discusses these Library Boards with particular reference to their composition and functions as well as problems confronting them. Gives detailed information on the composition of each University Library Board. Concludes that University Library Boards in Ghana are useful in helping the university libraries to achieve the goals, objectives and purpose of the institutions of which they are part.

Details

Library Management, vol. 15 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-5124

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 April 1987

Yasar Tonta

The article begins with an overview of the current situation in Turkish university libraries, which were badly affected by the economic crisis of 1977–82. In 1982 the Higher…

Abstract

The article begins with an overview of the current situation in Turkish university libraries, which were badly affected by the economic crisis of 1977–82. In 1982 the Higher Education Council (HEC) approved the centralization of university libraries, and HECDOC (HEC Documentation and International Literature Search Centre) was set up in order to develop a national collection of serials in support of university library collections. Up to now, interlending in Turkish university libraries has been largely neglected, not helped by a law which makes librarians personally responsible for all losses from their library. A survey of 28 university libraries has shown that current use of ILL services is not great, with the various libraries disagreeing in their attitudes to charging for ILL. HECDOC provides 55% of satisfied ILL requests and it is hoped that the creation of a union catalogue of serials, together with a standard photocopy request form, will increase this. Collection development in Turkish university libraries is seriously affected by declining budgets, rising literature costs and a shortage of hard currency. Resource sharing, including ILL, is seen as one way of solving these problems.

Details

Interlending & Document Supply, vol. 15 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-1615

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