Guidelines for utilization of electronic information resources Mbale Public Library

Abstract

This study aimed at developing guidelines for utilization of electronic information resources among users of Mbale Public Library. The objectives were to; to establish the types of E-resources, to determine the utilization of E-resources, to identify the challenges faces in the utilization of E-resources, to develop guidelines for utilization of E-resources at Mbale Public Library. A qualitative research approach was used following the case study research design. The area of the study population was selected through purposive sampling and data was collected using interviews and observations and document reviewing. The findings confirmed that the Mbale Public Library uses electronic information like the Online Public Access Catalogue, CD ROMS, Electronic Databases though their rate of usage by the users was very low. The library encountered various challenges in the utilization of E-resources such as services interruption, inadequate training of staff, unreliable power supply, experience, network problems, lack of ICTs like limited computer. The study proposed guidelines to improve utilization of electronic information resources including training librarians and users to use these resources, user education programmes, publicizing the electronic resources so that they can be used. The researcher also made recommendations at the end of the study which included employing trained staff that are knowledgeable about ICTs and their usage to save on costs of training and time. The researcher also suggested that more research is needed in the role of the online Public Access catalogue in the utilization of electronic resources, guidelines for automation of library materials, role of ICTs in library operation and policies for provision of electronic resources.