Guidelines for integrating social media in library and information services at Universal Institute for Graphics and Technology

Abstract

This study aimed at developing guidelines for integrating social media in library and information services at Universal Institute for Graphics and Technology. The objectives of the study were to; identify the library services provided, establish the challenges that hinder the use of social media in library and information services, identify the requirements for using social media in providing library and information services and propose guidelines for integrating social media in library and Information services at Universal Institute for Graphics and Technology. The study used a case study research design while adopting both qualitative and quantitative approaches of data collection. Interviews, questionnaires and observation methods were used to collect the data from 34 students and 2 librarians. From the study, it was established that the types of library services offered by UIGT included research services, internet access, borrowing services, reading space, reference services, photocopying and printing services. The study also revealed the challenges in access and dissemination of information using social media and these were; computer illiteracy, slow internet connectivity within the Institute computer laboratories, preference for manual dissemination services by some students, uncooperative staff, inadequate networked computers and lack of Wi-Fi internet. The study established that majority of the respondents, 70% use Facebook while accessing and disseminating information at Universal Institute for Graphics and Technology. The other social media tools used include Whatsapp, Twitter, You tube and Tik Tok. The strategies to improve on the use of social media were; embrace IT, improving internet connectivity, need to hold computer and information literacy training programs, conduct workshops, trainings and seminars to train the students on how to utilize social media, help students’ access to social media sites acquire and provide fuel for stand-by generators. The study concluded that there was a need to develop guidelines for dissemination of information using social media. The study recommended the school to adopt the proposed Social media guidelines, marketing and building customer relations, management of electronic library services and provision of Wi-Fi internet. The study finally proposed Guidelines for Integrating Social Media in Library and Information Services at UIGT.