Strategies for improving the utilization of information and communication technologies (icts) at Ndejje University library

Abstract

The aim of the study was to develop strategies for improving the utilization of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in Ndejje University Library. The study was guided by objectives that included: to examine the status of Information and Communication Technology in Ndejje University Library, its ICT based services, the importance of ICTS, challenges affecting the utilization of ICT based service and to come out with strategies for improving the utilization of ICT based services in Ndejje University Library. The study adopted a methodology that involved the use of a case study research design and a qualitative research approach. Purposive and simple random samplings were the sampling strategies used. The study population size was 90 from which a sample size of 47 was determined. To collect data, the study adopted Interview, Questionnaire and Observation data collection methods. Based on the data collected and analyzed, findings revealed that: the commonly available ICT facilities in the library were computers, videotapes, scanners, photocopiers and printers; users were not satisfied with the ICT facilities available in the library. Some of the barriers to effective utilization of ICTs in the library were inadequate funding, low level of computer literacy among the staff, inadequate ICT infrastructure and low level of ICT awareness among users. Users of the library use ICTs mainly for accessing educational information, keeping abreast with current news, events, Internet browsing, downloading and storing information for personal use and for word processing. The study findings concluded that NDUL lacks strategies for improving the utilization of ICTs and it was therefore recommended that the NDUL should adopt and implement the proposed strategies for improving the utilization of ICTs in the library. The study recommends more funding of the library, Provision of orientation programs on ICT utilization in the library, preparation of ICT related workshops and seminars, acquisition of more ICT facilities and ensuring of full-time power supply in the library.