A virtual reference and information service system for Kampala University Library .

Abstract

The main project purpose was to develop a virtual reference and information service system for Kampala University Library. The project sought to; identify the reference and information needs of the Kampala University Library users, study how the reference and information services are currently provided at Kampala University Library, identify the requirements for developing a virtual reference and information service system at Kampala University Library and developing a virtual Reference and information service system for Kampala University Library. Critical literature was reviewed and cited as detailed in chapter 2 of the report. Data for developing a virtual reference and information service system for Kampala university library was collected using mainly interviews and document analysis. We adopted a structured systems analysis and design methodology following a classical waterfall model depicted in figure 2. This model divides the lifecycle into a set of phases as suggested by Rastogi, 2015. The findings reveals that the current reference module used at Kampala University Library is very time-consuming since the library patrons have to walk physically to the library then get to the reference desk to seek the reference and information service given that the reference and information services at the library can only be accessed physically. More so, the proposed virtual reference and information service system is deemed better since it was to improve the way reference services are provided to the users, especially the distant users since it can work in parallel with the current module of reference service provision. Based on this we can conclude to say that the main purpose of a virtual reference and information service system was to serve global users, those people that cannot come up to the library physically, and professionals that are always busy to make the library reference section accessible 24/7. The project team recommends that the management of Kampala university library adopts the developed virtual reference and information service system because it does not require a lot of money to operate and the library staff should be trained on how to use the proposed system to avoid debugging during registration process and also be able to meet the reference and information needs of the users.