A study of possible causes for library staff turnover in Kenya

Abstract

Staff is critical to the success of failure of any organization including libraries. Satisfying staff that work in organization should be basic consideration of libraries if they are to retain skilled and qualified staff. This research identified important factors that drive staff away from libraries. These include promotion, training, salary, job content and supervision. Effective control of turnover requires examination of these factors with a view to correcting them.

The findings reveal that promotion and training is a major determinant of turnover. These are closely followed by salary and allowances, (fringe benefits). Supervision and job content although valued does not feature as prominently as the other factors.

In the right of these findings the following recommendation were made.

1. Expanding promotion opportunities

2. Encourage and support training

3. Improved salary structures and benefits

4. Supervisory style where participation in encouraged

5. Job enrichment to remove boredom and make-work more meaningful.

6. Conduct exit interviews to establish why staffs are leaving with a view to averting the problems.