Guidelines for the preservation of information materials at the Goethe Zentrum library

Abstract

The study was about developing a preservation policy for Goethe Zentrum Library Nakawa, Division Kampala District with the objectives were to; find out the different types of information materials at Goethe Zentrum library, assess the various the methods used in preservation of information materials at Goethe Zentrum library, establish threats to library to library holding or collection at the Goethe Zentrum library and propose guidelines for the preservation of information materials at the Goethe Zentrum library. It used a descriptive research method of data collection and data was collected from a sample size of 15 respondents. Purposive sampling method was used to obtain data from teachers and Librarians while stratified and convenient sampling method was used to obtain data from students. Questionnaires, interviews and observations tools were also used by the study to obtain data from respondents. The results of the study revealed that most of the information materials in Goethe Zentrum Library were in a poor condition and the library also faced preservation challenges like inadequate funds, manpower issues, poor handling of information materials by the users, lack of a preservation policy, weak paper and ink and little spaces in the shelves. The study also revealed the need for a preservation policy in Goethe Zentrum Library to improve the poor conditions of information materials, to reduce the rate of deterioration of information materials and to acquire funds for preservation. The study was concluded with the following recommendations; adequate funding, review of the methods of repairing of information materials, training of library staff, adoption and implementation of the proposed policy, strict observation and respect of library rules and regulations, fumigation and regular cleaning of the library and dusting of information materials.