An electronic information retrieval system for Victoria University Library

Abstract

The project was carried out on An electronic Information Retrieval System for VU, with the purpose of designing and developing an Information Retrieval system that will ease the access of information to library users by making information accessible to everyone over the web. The objectives of the project were to; investigate and analyze the user information needs, examine the current system of retrieving information resources in Victoria University Library, identify the challenges associated with the retrieval system used in the Victoria University Library, identify the requirements for designing an information retrieval system for Victoria University Library and design an information retrieval system for Victoria University Library. The study used a case study research design and a quantitative research approach was used. During data collection, observation method, questionnaire method and interview methods were used to collect data in order to clearly describe the situation. A sample of 35 respondents was considered which comprised of both library staff, lecturers and users of the library where by only 30 responded. Stratified sampling techniques, judgmental sampling and accidental sampling techniques were the sampling methods used to determine the sample size. Findings from the study revealed that there is a variety of information materils managed by the university library that are used by the library users which include; text books, magazines, newspapers, past papers, maps and many more. The research findings also show that VU Library still uses manual methods to carry out IRS where the librarian has to do each and every thing him or herself such as receiving orders, register users retrieve information from the shelves among others and that the users waste a lot of time waiting information materials required. The study concluded that, methods used to offer IR services at VU library should be revised, methods like use of Internet to retrieve Library information should be adopted, compatible and user friendly systems should be used and finally an Electronic Retrieving System should be designed and developed in order to ease on Information retrieving process and reach out to a wider population.