A web based resource marketing tool for Uganda Matryrs University Nkozi Library

Abstract

In order to achieve an easier method of marketing services in libraries, designed and implemented web-based are being pushed as a replacement for the manual marketing methods. The project aimed at designing a Web-based tool for marketing library services for Uganda Martyrs University Nkozi. A case study research design was used and a qualitative research approach adopted in the study. A sample size of 30 respondents was used consisting of both the library staff and students while adopting a qualitative research approach in discussing findings. Library staff included 5 and 25 students were involved. Data was collected using questionnaires, interviews and participant observation. And it was qualitatively analyzed and presented with the help of tables, bar graphs and pie charts. The study found that Uganda Martyrs University – Nkozi still uses the traditional marketing methods such as notice boards, display racks, word of mouth; other findings in the study revealed that the library uses traditional methods for communication about library services such as reference, circulation among others. A traditional marketing system can prove to be a challenge for both the library staff and the users associated with challenges like; Long queues, time consumption, it is tiresome difficult to maintain statistics with the manual system. The study concluded that a lot of time and money are wasted on marketing library services traditionally hence making the library of less use to users. The study therefore recommends Uganda Martyrs university – Nkozi library to adopt the proposed Web-based Marketing tool to provide a centralized communication and management of library activities. It was recommended that the management of the UMU-Nkozi library should adopt the proposed Web-based Marketing tool because of its many benefits, Uganda Martyrs University – Nkozi library management should endeavor to train librarians on how to operate the designed tool so that they can meet the user’s needs. In addition, more budgets for the library should be increased for purchase of equipment like computers, scanners and above all the users should be sensitized about the tool.