MST-Department of Library and Information Science

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Access and Use of Dairy Agricultural Information by Small-Scale Young Farmers in Murang’a County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2018-08) Thuo, Martha Wanjiku
Access to agricultural information influences the farming practices adopted by farmers. Information centres are charged with the responsibility of ensuring that there are adequate, relevant and up-to-date information resources for all. Dairy farmers need frequent access to information on nutrition, breed, health status, environment, and among others to cope with modern dairy farming practices. Inefficient access and dissemination of dairy agricultural information can negatively affect the production level of dairy products. This study sought to investigate access and use of dairy agricultural information by small-scale young farmers in Murang’a County, Kenya. The area has experienced low dairy agricultural productions despite its high potential in dairy farming. The study aimed at understanding how farmers get information on dairy farming for improvement in dairy farming production. The study’s specific objectives were; to assess the information needs and seeking behavior of young farmers venturing in dairy farming; to find out the various information sources used in accessing dairy agricultural information by young dairy farmers; to find out the technologies employed by young dairy farmers in accessing dairy agricultural information and finally investigate the challenges encountered by small-scale dairy farmers in access and use of dairy agricultural information. The study used descriptive survey research design. A sample size of 152 respondents were selected from a target population of 250 young dairy farmers and 12 extension officers who are located in Kangema, Kiharu, Kigumo and Mathioya constituencies in Murang’a County. Simple random and purposive samplings were used to select 152 small scale dairy farmers and 12 extension officers. Questionnaires, interview guides and observation schedules were used as instruments of data collection. A pilot study was conducted in Maragwa constituency to enhance the reliability and validity of the instruments. Data was analyzed by use of quantitative and qualitative methods. Description and thematic analysis was used for qualitative data analysis while descriptive and inferential numeric analysis was used for quantitative data. Frequency tables, bar graphs, percentages and pie charts were used to present analyzed data. The study established that all the young dairy farmers required dairy agricultural information however; factors such as lack of exposure, lack of confidence, illiteracy, lack of funds and technical difficulties in information access negatively affected their information seeking behavior. The key source of dairy agricultural information used by majority of the farmers was radio, others being other dairy farmers and television. Majority of the farmers never used technologies such as computers, CD/DVD and social media to access dairy agricultural information. Three quarters preferred using other sources over technology. Among the most common challenges faced by farmers were inadequate funds, inadequate extension services, lack of information services, lack of support by the government and poor infrastructure in rural areas. The study concluded that there are gaps in access and use of dairy agricultural information. The researcher therefore recommended that the government should; recruit more extension officers within Murang’a County to ensure improved extension services, set up agricultural resource centers with qualified information providers to assess, select and acquire useful agricultural resources, improve infrastructure and set up cyber cafes within the sub counties and also educate dairy farmers on the use of technologies in accessing agricultural information
Accessibility and use of online databases: a case study of INASP/PERI initiative in Kenyan university library
(2011-11-29) Amunga, Hellen A.
This study assesses the impact of online databases accessed through the Programme for the Enhancement of Research Information (PERI) on teaching, learning and research in Kenyan universities. The online resources are a new innovation in these libraries and the study therefore sought to establish the current status in relation to access and use of the resources. It focused on the available access facilities, users' awareness levels and training in use, challenges hampering access and use of the resources and sustainability of the PERI initiative in Kenya. A survey was conducted in four universities (two public and two private). It targeted university and reference librarians, lecturers and Masters students. Questionnaires were used to gather information from lecturers and Masters students, while university and reference librarians were interviewed as key informants. The general response rate for all the 136 target respondents was eighty percent (80%). Findings point at limited use due to inadequate access facilities in the university libraries. Users' awareness of availability of the INASP/PERI online databases in their local libraries is low- only 18% of all the lecturers and Masters students were able to mention a few of these academic databases. Most who claimed to be aware associated online databases with the search engines - Google and Yahoo! The study found out that 93% of the lecturers and 72% of the Masters students used print resources as compared to 73% of lecturers and 82% Masters students who used online resources including search engines. This is because the print resources are readily available in their libraries unlike access to online databases that is hampered due to various reasons. The study also established that information literacy training in Kenyan universities is still uncoordinated with lecturers teaching Communication Skills (a common unit) to undergraduate students only. Librarians teach the unit's library component on request by lecturers. Both lecturers and Masters students are not empowered to access and use online information. The study identifies various challenges that hamper access and use of the INASP/PERI online databases by the academic community in the country. The major challenges include inadequate access facilities; inability of the databases to adequately cover the information needs of most users in private institutions; insufficient bandwidth; lack of space, lack of awareness; high computer illiteracy and inadequate professional staff. Other challenges include lack of support facilities and services; lack of support from respective university administration and time limits to access and use the online databases. The lecturers targeted in the study indicated that the provision of online resources by their university libraries has not had a big impact on their work. The implication is that the expected outcome from access and use of the PERI online resources namely quality research and publishing, effective teaching and learning are, not therefore being achieved in Kenya. The study concludes that the country's academic community is not contributing towards the production and dissemination of knowledge through use of ICTs as envisaged by INASP/PERI. There is need for all stakeholders to urgently address identified challenges to enable maximum utilization of these resources. This dissertation outlines some recommendations that are useful for addressing the issues.
An analysis of the British Council Library service in Kenya: a case of the Nairobi British council library.
(2012-05-07) Gathinji, Harriet Wambui
This is a study of Nairobi British Council Library. The project report contains information on the library’s resources, services, staff, accommodation and accessibility. A brief history of the formation of the British Council as a body has also been included. The study also contains remarks about the category of Nairobi British Council Library and by implication, the rest of British Council libraries in Kenya. The idea was to try and come out with possible classification of the library based on both its policy and functions. to this effect, a conclusion based on the researcher's views as well as the services offered there has been drawn. For every aspect of this study, some recommendations have been given. These are based on the research findings and conclusions. There is a suggestion for further research based on staff efficiency. I hope it will make interesting reading.
An analysis of the learning resource centre concept and its implication for diploma teacher training colleges in Kenya.
(2012-05-30) Ngaruiya, Boniface Njoroge
The Learning Resource Centre is a Concept that was introduced in Kenya in the mid seventies as a way of improving the educational system. Following an extensive review of literature on this concept, the following four objectives were formulated to help understand the development and organization of Learning Resource Centre in diploma Colleges since their inception there. (i) To elicit the views of tutors, students and a number of public officers involved in the Learning Resource centre on what they perceive as the meaning and role of Learning Resource Centres in diploma Colleges. (ii) To investigate the student and tutor utilization of the available learning media and get views on how the latter could be better organised to facilitate such utilization. (iii) To observe the Physical and learning environment in which the learning resources are utilized in the colleges. (iv) To investigate the problems that has been encountered in the development and utilization of Learning Resource Centres in the diploma Colleges and nationality. Following the objectives, all diploma Colleges in Kenya were to be used for the study. Laikipia Colleges was, however, left out being a newly established college as at the time of the study. The following tools were used to collect the required information: (i) Two questionnaires, for tutors and students. (ii) Interview schedules for some key staff in the Colleges, and for some public officers relevant to the Learning Resource Centre. (iii) Observation schedules. The tutors and students used for the study were selected on a departmental and class basis respectively to obtain a stratified sample. In all about 300 questionnaires were received from students, 100 from tutors, and 30 interviews were conducted. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise and interpret the data. The following major observations were found: (i) That the different tutors and public officers are aware of the Learning Resource Centre Concept but they attach different meaning and roles to the Concept. Students attach the meaning and role of a Learning Resource Centre to what is available in their colleges. Most persons, however, tended to see the Learning Centre as a repository of technological gadgets. (ii) That there appears to be little difference in the organization and utilization of learning resources in Colleges that claim to have a Learning Resource Centre and those which do not. (iii) That though the available book media is greatly overused in the colleges, the non-book media is largely under-utilized. (iv) That the traditional approaches to teaching and learning continue to predominate in the colleges, and this had hindered the utilization of non-book media. Tutors and students in the colleges have not shown a commitment to the production of their own learning resources, preferring to use what is already made. (v) That the organisational structure to facilitate the development and utilization of Learning Resource Centres seems inadequate both at the college and national level. (vi) Problems that have been faced include inadequate funding. Lack of adequate trained staff, Unclear Organisational structures, and lack of understanding and support for the Learning Resource Centre. The importance of Learning Resource Centres derives mainly from theoretical considerations, these being, perhaps, ideal. It seems that there has been difficulties in implementing the Learning Resource Centre as initially envisaged by the proposers. The writer proposes further researcher in Learning Resource Centre innovation in education and suggests that given greater publicity and clearer organisational structure the Learning Resource Centre ideals are worthwhile and attainable.
An appraisal of the Kenya national library reference service
(2002) Macharia, Beatrice Wangari
A reference service is one of the services offered in any type of a library. It's role in the library is that of maximizing utilization of a library's resources. Due to this important role, it is an essential service that should be recognized as an important and inseparable part of the library services. This reference service provision involves not only finding the answers to queries but performs other functions; i.e. inter-library loans, location of documents, outreach services, compiling of bibliographies and indexes among others. The main purpose of this research was to evaluate the quality of this service in K.N.L.S. The objectives were; to establish the philosophy of this service, identify services offered, and establish through user satisfaction the quality of this service. The sample for this research was obtained through simple random sampling method. This was done from three categories of users i.e; from primary school level, secondary school level and above secondary school level. This was to ensure that all users of the library were well represented. There was also a sample representing the staff which was also acquired through the same simple random sampling. IV Data collected was through questionnaires, direct observation and reference service records at the K.N.L.S. On analysing and interpreting the data, conclusions were made by the researcher. From the findings of the study, it was established that the reference service although not extremely poor, it is below average. Various factors established which down play the quality of this reference service are, lack of policies, inadequacy of services and resources, and lack of marketing of services provided. The recommendations given by the researcher were that, the reference service personnel come up with policies, improve on the collection, enter into formal inter-library services, sensitize their users and potential users on services provided and automate all services.
Assesment of information literacy skills in county governments: A case study of Machakos County Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2015-09) Maina, Mary Waithera
This project report describes a study that was undertaken to find out evidence of knowledge in information literacy, skills and practices if any in the county government environment in Kenya. It also investigates the connection between acquired literacy skills and their influences on service delivery, particularly with respect the county government office as the work place. A case study method was employed; data collection involved the administration of questionnaires to selected county officers in this case Machakos County assembly staff and interviewing selected information experts in the county. A mixed method approach was used to provide complementary insights to the findings of the study. This study is important especially at this time when Kenya is at the onset of implementing the county government structure. The outcome of this research will provide important feedback for policy making process in counties and the nation at large.
Assessing County Government Modalities for Disseminating Agricultural Information to Farmers in Alego Usonga Ward, Siaya County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2018-09) Odinga, Grace Akoth
Access to current, accurate, and authoritative agricultural information is essential for competitive markets and agricultural sector development. The purpose of this study was to assess the County government modalities for disseminating agricultural information to farmers in Alego-Usonga ward in Siaya County. This study explored the channels used to disseminate agricultural information, established the competencies and skills of staff involved in agricultural information dissemination, the contribution of extension officers in disseminating agricultural information, in Alego Usonga ward of Siaya County, and the challenges experienced in dissemination of agricultural information. Both qualitative and quantitative research approaches were used for this study. The study was conducted in Siaya county; AlegoUsonga ward. This sub county was purposely selected because it had the highest population and therefore the highest number of farmers. The farmers and agricultural information service providers formed the target population. Purposive sampling was used to sample the population. Interviews and questionnaires were used for data collection. Qualitative data was collected, analysed and summarised thematically giving narrative conclusions out of it, while quantitative data was summarised coded and put in SPSS software for analysis according to the objectives of the study. The study established that the channels that were widely used for disseminating agricultural information consisted of audio and audio visuals and that the staff that provided agricultural information were fairly competent. The study recommended that effective, easy to access and affordable channels of dissemination should be applicable in disseminating agricultural information to farmers in Siaya County, and that the staff involved in agricultural information dissemination should be well trained, and experienced. The study also recommended that the current channels of dissemination like social media as well as peers, site visits and agricultural shows should be enhanced for disseminating agricultural information, and that the staff competencies and skills should be enhanced to ensure effectiveness in the performance of their duties.
Assessing the Implementation Status of Institutional Repositories for Scholarly Communication in the Selected Universities in Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2019-06) Njagi, Pauline Ruguru
Institutional repository is a concept that has been embraced worldwide as a means through which academic institution showcase their research output globally. The aim of this study was to assess the implementation status of institutional repositories for transmitting scholarly communication in newly established universities in Kenya, with particular reference to Machakos, Kirinyaga and Embu University. The study objectives were establishing content recruitment criteria the universities employ to populate their institutional repositories, assess role of staff who are charged with responsibilities of managing institutional repositories, establish user awareness levels of the existence and purpose of institutional repositories, evaluate the extent of user acceptance of the institutional repositories and finally identity challenges that face successful implementation of institutional repositories. The study used quantitative and qualitative methods for data collection and analysis. Data for the study was collected through structured questionnaires and interview schedule. Simple random sampling was used to sample data from student population and purposive sampling from the staff. Qualitative data was analysed by the use of content analysis. A statistical package for social sciences was used to analyse quantitative data and represent it through the use of percentages, tables, pie charts and graphs for the purpose of interpretation. The study established that majority of the users (faculty heads and student) were averagely aware of existence of institutional repository. Users had an average perception on institution repository and some were depositing and archiving their research work with the repository. The surveyed institution repositories had fairly functional institution repositories governed by submission and metadata policies. The institutional repository librarians were charged with responsibilities of recruiting content, understood the scholarly communication process. The study concluded that the level of awareness needs to be improved through user education on content hosting, digital archiving and scholarship. The study recommends for methods of promoting institutional repositories concept and management support.
Assessment of information literacy competencies of practicing nurses at Kenyatta National Hospital, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2017-07) Mugambi, Frankline
The aim of the research project was to assess the information literacy competency skills of practicing nurses at KNH with the objective of establishing, the information needs of practicing nurses, awareness of potential sources of information in nursing profession, ability to evaluate the retrieved information and establish their knowledge of ethical, legal and social-economic issues surrounding information use. The research adopted a case study focusing on single case of KNH, with a target population of 1723 registered nurses and a sample size of 347 respondents was selected. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data. Data was analyzed by use of likert scale and SPSS and presented through tables, charts, figure, graphs and percentage. The study established that information literacy program is taught at nursing schools in Kenya, four professional information needs were cited by practicing nurses at KNH; patient care, in-house presentation, presentation at a professional meeting/seminar and scholarship application/career development. Patient care recorded the highest frequency of 163(83%). All practicing nurses at KNH were aware of reference books, textbooks and human sources as sources of professional information. Human source was most preferred source of information; only 41% of practicing nurses had access to online medical databases since graduating. Low information literacy skills was reported on evaluation of information retrieved, use of online medical databases and on intellectual properties. The research recommends establishment of conducive environment for sharing professional knowledge, establishment of an information center to acquire information resources and develop specialized information services as well as information literacy programme tailor made to nurses and other medical practitioners in support of evidence based practice. The insights from the research findings will help nursing schools across the country in designing of information literacy curriculum, help health organizations in design of information literacy policies and staff trainings, guide future researchers and contribute to the professional knowledge
Assessment of Library Services to Children in Rural Areas: A Case of Kenya National Library Service Kangema, Murang’a County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2022) Nyambura, Wangui Monicah; Daniel Muthee
Public Libraries located in rural areas are established and designed for the purpose of providing information services to all groups in the community including children and stimulate reading for fun that promote reading culture among children and in the process ensure user satisfaction. This study was an assessment of children library services provided in rural areas a case of Kenya National Library Service, Kangema, with an aim of establishing whether they satisfy children information needs that will lead to lifelong reading. Objectives that guided the study included to establish the perception of library services in rural areas, identify strategies used in providing information in a rural public library, determine the information needs of children living in rural areas, to assess whether the children library services provided satisfy their information needs, and to determine the suitability of children library services provided in supporting reading for life. Different literatures was reviewed. Descriptive research design a case study approach was used. Target population included all the children registered as library members (642), teacher librarian of all the schools that had registered as institutional members (9), and library staff (4). Purposive sampling was used to sample a sample size of 64 children, 9 teacher librarians and the entire population of library staff. Questionnaires, interview, focus group discussions were used to collect data. Collected data was presented and analyzed data in form of tables and pie charts. Computer based statistical package for social science was used to analyze quantitative data. Qualitative data collected from interviews and FGD was presented in a narrative form, and where necessary the voices of the participants was cited and where possible organized thematically. The study established that libraries were perceived as a place for books and study and library services were essential and important. The library used a variety of strategies such as policy, dedicated children spaces, host reading related activities, the library had a variety of books and other information materials , integrated ICT in children library activities, they engage users in children library activities.. Children were aware of their various information needs majority of them identified education need as the major information need. Other include current awareness, entertainment, personal problem and personal development information need. Further the study found out that children used the information obtained for academic purposes. Library services were accessible to all children however majority of children visited the library weekly. The finding revealed that the library had inadequate information resources. There were various kinds of services that may be utilized by children, the junior section was well ventilated with proper lighting. Users were satisfied with the furniture available, all children activities were conducted by competent librarians, services to children provided were suitable to support a reading culture. However, a percentage of users were dissatisfied with the service due to inadequate Information materials, few computers, book borrowing fee, and unattractive library wall. The researcher recommends that the library should involve more stakeholders whenever they have reading related activities for children. Do a benchmarking with other libraries. More programs should be added to stimulate reading for life through attractive, fun library activities and encourage children to frequently visit the library. To capture children’s imagination, library wall should be made more attractive by adding educational pictures and murals. To promote reading culture, financial support from the government is key. Therefore, the library should lobby for enhancement of budget allocation from the County governments for an effective library service to children living in rural areas.
Assessment of Mainstreaming of Information Literacy into Academic Programs in Selected Universities in Nairobi And Kiambu Counties, Kenya.
(Kenyatta University, 2019-07) Webala, Selina Nabukhwami
The primary purpose of this study was to assess mainstreaming of information literacy into universities’ academic programs as outlined by Commission for University Education standards and guidelines for university libraries in Kenya. The standards require universities to integrate information literacy into the curriculum under common units for both undergraduates and postgraduates to ensure information literacy skills are imparted to all students in institutions of higher learning in Kenya. The study sought to examine the perceptions of librarians and faculty regarding mainstreaming information literacy into academic programs; their involvement in mainstreaming IL into the curriculum; the extent to which Information Literacy has been incorporated into the academic curriculum; availability of adequate resources in terms of equipment and human to facilitate mainstreaming as well as the challenges encountered in mainstreaming IL into curriculum. This research was guided by the socio-cultural learning theory by Vygotsky. The target population was 267 librarians and faculty coordinators of information literacy in the main university campuses in Kiambu and Nairobi counties. The sample size comprised of 57 librarians and 7 faculty coordinators of information literacy. Descriptive survey design was used and the research used questionnaires to collect data. A pilot study was undertaken at KCA University to determine the validity and reliability of the instruments. Data from completed questionnaires was analysed using descriptive statistics and the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The findings were presented in form of pie charts, tables and bar graphs. The study established that librarians are strongly in agreement that mainstreaming information literacy into universities’ academic programs can raise standards in use of electronic resources which universities acquire annually but had less positive perception on whether mainstreaming IL could make students more responsible users of information. It also revealed that universities are involving librarians in aspects of designing IL curricular, setting study topics and establishing search strategies. In terms of resources universities have reliable internet connection though have a shortage in application programs and equipment. In determining the extent of IL incorporation into curriculum all universities have embraced the idea where most of them have adopted the inter-curricular model. However major challenges faced by all universities were inadequate resources. The study recommends that universities should acquire adequate resources in terms of equipment and human to cater for the large numbers of students, establish a new curriculum so that IL can be taught as a core unit to all students as well as promote strict adherence to Commission University Education (CUE) guidelines in regard to Information Literacy
An assessment of security measures for electronic information resources in selected organizations in Nairobi
(2011-08-10) Namaande, Ben Wekalao
The purpose of this study was to assess security measures in place for electronic information and its infrastructure in selected organizations in Nairobi. The main objectives for the study were: establishment of the status of current security measures for electronic information systems in selected organizations in Nairobi, to suggest a possible security policy for organizations dealing with Information Communication Technology and to identify possible solutions to the problems. Before assessing the measures, the researcher identified some specific threats that electronic information faces. The study found out that electronic information and infrastructure faces two broad types of threats: physical and logical. Physical threats are the vulnerabilities militating against electronic information because of physical weaknesses such as improper securing of the information facilities. Measures for this brand of threats are also physical e.g. construction of bomb proof buildings, keeping out of bounds any unauthorized personnel in and around the information communication technology main center, and 24 hour round the clock surveillance, etc. On the other hand, logical threats are system-oriented dangers, which cripple the operations of the information system. As technology stands today, anybody with a computer and a modem can have access to the Internet or the WWW, however, not everybody surfing the web has good intentions. Some are driven by ulterior motives such as stealing or destroying information
Barriers in accesing and retrieving information resources in academic libraries: a case study of selected libraries of Nairobi University
(2011-05-09) Mumo, Anjela Mbula.
Access to information in academic libraries is of vital importance. Users of academic libraries need information for education, training and research. University academic programmes are tight and students are always overwhelmed with the number of units they have to cover, term papers to finish and projects to write, thus accessing library materials should be very smooth with minimum constraints to save their time. Libraries should ensure that users receive adequate training on how to use the library and information retrieval tools should be user friendly, reliable and available. However, accessing information has faced challenges that have made the process frustrating to users and therefore hindering the library from achieving its goal of disseminating information. The main purpose of this study was to investigate the barriers that make the access and retrieval process time consuming, tiring and difficult in academic libraries in selected libraries of the Nairobi University library system. The study objectives were: to find out barriers that are related to the library systems, barriers that are related to the user systems, barriers that are related to Library staff systems and barriers that are related to multimedia systems and the effect these barriers have on information use. The researcher used a descriptive survey design to collect data. The design is appropriate in studying the problems users face in accessing information because it focuses on the users' views, opinions and perceptions on what barriers they face while accessing and retrieving resources. The study established clearly that academic libraries have barriers that affect information access and retrieval to a large extent. These included library related barriers like faulty information retrieval tools, poor library and stock signage and guidance. Others included, lack of skill on how to access and retrieve information and lack of publicity of resources which led to unawareness of resources. Untrained library staff and lack of commitment to work by personnel. Multimedia related barriers that included Poor telecommunication infrastructure, inadequate electronic services and facilities were the other barriers. Major recommendations from the study are to facilitate the use of electronic retrieval tools which are more effective; intensive and continuous training of users to impart skills of information access and retrieval; training of library staff about customer care and public relations. Other recommendations include marketing of library services and resources, improvement of telecommunication infrastructure and increase the number of multi-media facilities and services.
Bibliotheraphy for the hearing impaired in Kenya: a survey
(2012-05-18) Namu, Gertrude Muthoni
By way of definition, bibliotherapy is the relief of suffering through psychological processes and acquisition of other remedial skills induced by reading and use of relevant information. This study was designed to investigate whether any Bibliotherapy is practiced in Kenyan schools for the hearing impaired and among the hearing impaired in general. It also sought to establish the information needs of the students and teachers in these schools as well as the rehabilitation officers dealing with the hearing impaired. The study covered four schools: Machakos School for the Deaf, Kaaga School for the Deaf, Kambui school for the hearing impaired and the Karen Vocational Training institute for the deaf. It also covered 2 assessment centres; one in Machakos and one in Meru (Kaaga) as well as officers in the Rehabilitation Department in the Ministry of Culture and Social Services. The review of the related literature indicated that bibliotherapy is practiced although this is done unconsciously. It also revealed that there is neither a conscious effort nor a definite policy to this effect. Three questionnaires were distributed to a total of 124 respondents. There was one questionnaire for students in schools for the deaf, one for teachers in schools for the deaf and one for rehabilitation officers. Findings showed that there was no reading material for the students besides what was necessary for the school curriculum. It also revealed that bibliotherapy can be practiced since the teachers and rehabilitation officers indicated a willingness to do so and an appreciation of bibliotherapy as a method of rehabilitation. Inadequate training for the teachers and rehabilitation officers and lack of reading materials was found to be the major problem. The study recommended among other things, the introduction of bibliotherapy in all schools for the hearing and impaired and the formation of a national association or panel for those practicing bibliotherapy.
Cataloguing and classification: problems and possible solutions. a case study of Kenyatta University and Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology
(Kenyatta University, 1996) Muthee, D.W.; Mwathi, P.G.
The purpose of this study was to examine the existing problems in cataloguing and classification of library materials in Kenyatta University and Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology Libraries. The study also purposed to utilise the findings to propose solutions and recommendations which should be used to rectify the situation. The procedures of the study included:- i. reviewing of literature to show the existing state of cataloguing and classification in many libraries. ii. Data gathering through use of questionnaires to library staff, and library users, and interviews (interviews were administered to librarians using a guiding questionnaire). iii. Observation of the library staff. The study found that several problems exist in cataloguing and classification of library resources. Such problems included:- Use of outdated cataloguing and classification tools ,inadequate knowledge of cataloguing and classification rules and therefore poor interpretation and application of these rules, backlogs, lack of stationery, shortage of professional staff, manual systems, and many more. The research has recommended several solutions to the identified problems with a view of eradicating the cataloguing and classification problems. Such recommendations included:- creation of a committee on cataloguing and classification, allocation of more teaching and practical time to cataloguing and classification in the KU Library school, expanding the cataloguing systems to suit their own needs, recruiting of cataloguing oriented personnel, purchasing of up-to-date National Union Catalogues (NUCs), avoiding of unnecessary details, among other things.
Challenges in accessing electronic information resources by students with visual impairments in Kenyatta University Post Modern Library
(Kenyatta University, 2015-05) Kiambati, Fridah Gatwiri
The increasing provision of Web-based information resources has moved from a simple text interface to dynamic and interactive de¬signs. While this move has provided people with a more creative and flexible experience, there are dangers that some people will be excluded because they cannot use standard methods of access. In this light, this study came timely to explore the challenges that students with visual impairment faced in accessing electronic information resources. Technological, institutional and personal factors were examined closely to find out their related challenges in accessing e-resources by students with visual impairment. The study’s specific objectives were; to examine factors that affect information seeking by students with visual impairment, to identify the challenges that students with visual impairment face in accessing e-resources, to find out how the use of adaptive technology affect students with visual impairment in accessing e-resources and to describe the training offered to students with visual impairment in accessing e-resources. The experiential learning theory proposed by Carl Rogers in 1986 was used. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design to describe the challenges that students with visual impairment faced in accessing electronic information resources. The study was carried out at Kenyatta University Post Modern Library. The population comprised of 80 students and 5 staff members. The sample consisted of all the total population. Questionnaires were used to collect data from the students while personal interviews were conducted for the staff. A pilot study was conducted before the actual study to pretest the tools thus ensuring their reliability and validity. The data collected was analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative methods. For Quantitative methods, descriptive statistics was used. Specifically, Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to generate frequencies and percentages. After data analysis; tables, graphs and charts were used to present quantitative data while qualitative data was presented in textual mode. The study established that most of the students were not able to retrieve and use e-resources though their own efforts, most students with visual impairment used other students to read for them, more than half of the students found it difficult to use e-resources, more than half of the students had not received any user education on how to access e-resources and that staff serving users with visual impairment had average skills in assistive technology (AT). The study concluded that: students with visual impairments lacked independence in using e-resources, assistive technology is a key aspect in the access of e-resources by users with visual challenges and that literacy levels in AT and e-resource for students and staff is a key challenge. The study recommended library management to encourage independence of learners through equipping them with self reliant skills like information literacy and AT skills, Organize training and induction forums for staff and students on AT and e-resources and provide adequate AT devices. Further research was also highly recommended
Change Management in Academic Libraries: A Case Study of the Technical University of Kenya Library, Nairobi County
(Kenyatta University, 2019-04) Makanga, Jason
The purpose of the study was to find out how the library leadership has initiated and managed change at The Technical University of Kenya, Nairobi in order to meet the expectations of diverse categories of users and get support from the parent organization and donors. The study was guided by the following objectives: To identify the change management programs at the Technical University of Kenya Library, to identify the role of the University Librarian in change management, to establish both the driving and inhibiting forces for and against change, to determine the strategies and processes adopted by the University Librarian in managing change. The study was guided by Kurt Lewin’s theory of change management and adopted the case study research design. The target population for this study was thirty (30) staff members from the subject university excluding and subordinate staff. Systematic random sampling was used to obtain a sample size of 28 respondents. Questionnaires and interview schedules were used as data collection instruments. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics with the aid of the Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS). The interview schedules were decoded and explained in prose. The study’s key finding was that; TUK Library leadership was committed to change, had developed a library strategic plan and involved library staff in change management program for successful results. The study further established that developments in information technology with mean 3.35, the changing economy, changing educational and learning environment and changes in scholarly communication with a mean of 3.10, 3.05 and 3.0 respectively influenced change (forces for change) at TUK library. Change from USC of Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) to Library of Congress Classification (LCC) and the implementation of KOHA library management system were the major change programs implemented by TUK library, while staff training and capacity development as the least change programs initiated. The research recommends staff training program, succession plan, provision of modern facilities and further study on change management strategies. The study findings will inform the TUK library and other academic libraries in policy formulation, contribute to the body of knowledge in schools of information science.
Collaboration challenges facing information literacy programs in Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology Library
(2009) Wanjiru, Samuel Muthami
This research project was to investigate the information literacy collaboration challenges in JKUAT library. Information literacy (IL) is a critical pillar in all libraries. It ensures optimal usage of all forms of information resources acquired. It demands collaboration between the library, teaching departments, administrators as well as users to achieve its purpose. The challenge is that this IL partnership is often missing in many information centers. This investigation was therefore geared to unearthing insights into why there is lack of IL collaboration; poor IL evaluation practices; the potential areas for IL collaboration; and strategic outcomes of partnership in information literacy training (Montiel-Overall, 2008). The study investigated the collaboration challenges hampering information literacy initiatives in JKUAT library. The target respondents were librarians, lecturers and masters’ students. Questionnaires were used to gather information from lecturers and masters students owing to their big numbers. The senior library staff and especially the ones in-charge of the department, user instruction or subject sections were purposively selected and interviewed by the researcher. This was to enable the researcher probe and unearth more pertinent research details of qualitative nature. The librarians were fewer in number, knowledgeable and experienced in the IL subject hence the interview was apt. Out of 35 lecturers 32 (91%) responded. Only 31 (53%) of the 58 masters students responded to the questionnaire. All the targeted senior library staff (100%) were interviewed. A total of 73 of the anticipated 98 responses were received from both questionnaires and interviews representing a percentage return rate of 74%. The overall purpose of this study was to unearth the factors hindering effective collaboration in IL in JKUAT library. The study’s main objectives were: to establish the current IL programs and policies prevailing at JKUAT library; to establish the extent of collaboration in JKUAT library’s IL programs; to identify the factors hindering IL collaboration in JKUAT library; and to find out whether information literacy programs are cooperatively evaluated and assessed in the said library. Data was analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively. Qualitatively inferences were made from the opinion of the respondents in the open-ended responses. The responses were categorized as data was edited to sift most relevant to the objects of the study. Quantitatively descriptive statistical methods were used. Statistical data was coded and analyzed with the help of a statistician using the computer-based statistical package for social scientists – SPSS. The raw data was then saved in the spreadsheet Ms Excel. It is in Ms Excel that the researcher generated percentages, pie charts, tables and graphs used to present the data. This forms chapter four of this project. A major concurrence with previous findings elsewhere is that there is very little collaboration between librarians, lecturers, users and administrators in information literacy. The stakeholders agree that more needs to be done and propose approaches to redress this inadequacy. As Amunga (2007) had observed, this study confirmed that IL training is still an unestablished and uncoordinated effort. The study to a great extent corroborates previous findings on the challenges which hinder IL collaboration in university libraries in the west. Generally, these impediments to IL collaboration in Jomo Kenyatta university library and elsewhere are negative attitude of iv v lecturers towards IL, collaboration and library generally; negative attitude of library staff towards IL efforts hampers its development; the attitude of users towards IL and the library in general; lack of clear IL policy across the university which would nurture IL partnership; poor evaluation and assessment tradition on IL; issue of academic status for librarians and ensuing remuneration disagreements; inadequate IL training time and timing of programs reduce its impact; unmanageable or large groups viz a viz space constraints in the library. The IL collaboration challenges strongly emerging from this investigation are (a) poor public relations in the library which puts off users and other potential IL partners. The way the library projects itself when dealing with other potential collaborators determines relations in other aspects. (b) lack of leadership or initiator of IL collaboration. Other stakeholders look upon the library to propose and lobby for such partnership since the bulk of IL content is centered on the library and information services. Nothing has been initiated so far towards this end. (c) poor planning of IL initiatives. There are pockets of IL aspects that are uncoordinated. The communication skills course, electronic resources training, Orientation and research methods ought to form the basis of IL collaboration with a view to a formal partnership. (d) lack of or reluctance to acquire or share skills/knowledge on IL by both the trainers and trainees. Some members across the stakeholders are not ready to participate in IL training either for lack of confidence, skills, embarrassment or avoid workload since IL is involving. It demands continuous skills updating if one is to remain relevant in the fast evolving information field. (e) low frequency of IL training sessions inter alia, delinks the ardent information seeker from the potential collaborator offering the IL training. This cements attitudes exhibited by users. One sphere that would promote IL cooperation was found to be missing. The study found that there is seldom any evaluation and assessment of IL programs at JKUAT. This is an ideal area to promote tripartite collaboration between librarians, lecturers and users if they formulate objectives and content, mount training and evaluate together. Respondents agreed that it is imperative to work in partnership to make effective apt IL training albeit with shared roles. Such concerted efforts would yield the identified benefits of IL: research skills; critical skills; problem solving skills; IT skills; evaluation skills; synthesis skills, searching skills and information usage skills. These skills are vital to survive the information society and sustain lifelong learning. The study concludes that the identified collaboration challenges facing IL initiatives must be addressed through concerted efforts and in tandem with the CHE and ACRL standards on information literacy. Information literacy is everybody’s business and not just librarians’.
A comparative study of CDS/ISIS and INMAGIC in relation to manipulation of textual databases
(2012-05-03) Macharia, Patrick Mwangi; Were, J.
Use of computer technology has rapidly spread in most Kenyans information and Documentation centres with different types of computer softwares developed for use in information and Documentation centres. It has become rather difficult for information Managers to decide the best software for use in their organisations. CDS/ISIS and INMAGIC are the main textual databases in use in most information and Documentation in Kenya thus the comparative user study examines the two softwares in relation to factors such as user friendliness, compatibility, flexibility, strength, limitations, hardware and software local support.
Computerised information networking: a survey of information centres in Nairobi
(2012-05-08) Ng'ang'a, Edward Muchai; Were, J.
This study sets out to investigate the state of the art concerning computerized networks between information centres in Nairobi. Several information centres were visited and data collected on various aspects of computerisation and computerised networks. Centres that were founds to be computerised were mainly those with international status. Most of the local centres were found to be in the process of being computerised. Micro computer was the only type of computer that was found in all information centres. Even those planning to be computerised were hoping to acquire a micro computer. Many centres had obtained their computer through donation while a few had purchased. Mini micro CDS/ISIS was the most popular software. Other softwares included Procite, In magic, and Smart Library System (SLS). Software, like hardware was also obtained mainly through donation though some centres had either purchased or copied. Hardware and software compatibility as well as standards plays a major role in computerised networks. Subject headings in use included Library of Congress Subject Headings (SLCH), Sears List of Subject headings (SLSH), Medical Subject Headings (MESH), and Thesauri. All the centres were using Anglo American Cataloguing Rules (AACR). Various databases were found to be existing with cataloguing being the most common. Others included circulation, serials, and acquisition. Some centres were in the process of converting their manual database into computer form. Very few centres were maintaining any kind of computerised networks. Off-line network was more common than on-line. Local Area Network (LAN) was found to be operating in a few centres. Some centres were offering CD-ROM facilities. Several problems were being experienced by those centres with computerised networks. Nevertheless, several advantages were cited that accrue out of the networks. Several conclusions were arrived at out of the study. Recommendations were made to the following, government, planners and policy makers, information workers, and finally to researchers and scholars. There is a great need to computerise information centres so as to be able to form computerised networks in order to be in a position to share resources especially during this times of information explosion, dwindling budgets and skyrocketing costs of information.

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