The impact of public libraries as a transformative factor in human development in the Buffalo City Municipalities
- Ndlovu, Sheron https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4601-9789
- Authors: Ndlovu, Sheron https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4601-9789
- Date: 2022-08
- Subjects: Public libraries , Libraries and society
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23947 , vital:61993
- Description: This study investigated the impact of public libraries as a transformative factor in human development in the Buffalo City Municipalities. Literature revealed that although libraries play a significant role to their clientele, there seems to be challenges of service delivery in public libraries and these are largely due to funding issues. This has led to a general public negative perception that public libraries underperform which may not be necessarily a true reflection of public libraries. The role of the libraries in as far as the transformative factor in human development may be unclear, therefore, the researcher wants to determine the extent of the transformation factor in human development. The study was guided by the following objectives to: examine the impact of public library to its community or patrons in the Buffalo city libraries, find determine whether the library personnel understand their role in transforming the human development, determine the strategies used by public libraries that are transforming the human factor and to establish how the library patrons perceive the role of the public libraries in transforming their lives. A mixed methods approach was used as the research method. Qualitative and quantitative research methods were combined while simple random sampling was adopted to have a wide range of perspectives from library users. Library staff were purposively selected for interviews. A total of 31 people were interviewed, with 6 librarians and 25 library patrons. Out of 250 questionnaires administered, 220 were returned. The study was informed by the Service quality theory (SERVQUAL), Human Capital Theory and the Diffusion of Innovation Theory (DOIT). The DOIT theory was deemed suitable in this kind of research that deals with transformation and development as patrons adopted and adapted to new ideas and practices. The Service Quality theory was useful in this study because it included variables that the researcher felt were most significant for transformation and development to take place in a public library setting. The HCT theory denotes that education and training leads to greater productivity, and it translates into economic returns like high wages and increased Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This theory was relevant in this study because public libraries have an informative role to play as part of its roles as well as an educational role to play to the lives of the people who use the library. When people read at libraries, they are educated. They also improve their literacy levels through reading. Public libraries provide community members with services that are free of charge or cheaper and this helps the library patrons to save economically and transform as well. This process of servicing the needs of patrons is beneficial and continuous. In addition, the findings of this study revealed that library personnel understand their roles and those roles in turn transform the human development, although this is not really conclusive that they understand their roles in the transformation process. They ensure that the library patrons get the services they require and in some instances the library personnel even go beyond their normal duties. However, it must be noted that from the findings the main obstacles hindering libraries to effectively transforming the human development is the issue of funding and insufficient resources, Libraries have assisted in educational investment to the community members through many programmes offered in the public libraries and this assists in educational improvement and productivity in many spheres of life. The study also revealed that the public libraries provide spaces where patrons can hold meetings, discuss study related topics as well as individual studying spaces although, more space is required to avoid overcrowding. Through a number of strategies employed which are also attractive to the library patrons, public libraries transform the human development. Patrons perceive public libraries as extremely useful in transforming their lives as they indicated that the public library transform their lives in many aspects such as providing them with the information they require, learning opportunities, access to gateways of information like the internet and manual books, bridging that poverty gap and provision of literacy skills to the library patrons. It was concluded that public libraries transform the lives of the people in the communities that they serve in different aspects with the different roles and services that they offer to their patronage. In addition, a number of strategies are employed by public libraries so as to attract people into public libraries as well as to fulfil their primary mandate. In their pursuit to employ these strategies, public libraries transform the human development. Librarians with their duties assist the public yet it is unclear if they are fully aware of the role they play in transforming people’s lives. Despite some of the bad attitude exhibited by the librarians, a larger percentage of the librarians display a good attitude when carrying out their duties and assisting the library patrons. Librarians go beyond the call of duty in assisting the patrons and this in turn transform the human development. The researcher made some recommendations as per the findings of the study and these recommendations entail continuous training of the library personnel post their formal qualifications, strengthened collaboration and communication by the three spheres of Government so that the libraries may be better governed, constant awareness drives about public libraries and stable internet connectivity so that access maybe improved. The researcher also recommended the use of social media platforms for communication purposes and announcements as people are now attracted to social media platforms and they can be accessed by most of the library community. A proposed model was developed, and the proposed model is the RPPPP hierarchical model for transformative public libraries. This model was proposed also based on the findings of the research. For a public library to be transformative it must have resources, personnel, patrons, physical space and policies in place hence, the name RPPPP model. RPPPP denotes Resources, patrons, personnel, policy and physical space. Resources are primary to the functioning of any public library, highly skilled personnel as well as patrons as they are the recipients of the public library services, policy is also important so as to give guidance and direction on the issues of governance. In order to adequately serve the needs of the patrons, enough space is needed. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-08
- Authors: Ndlovu, Sheron https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4601-9789
- Date: 2022-08
- Subjects: Public libraries , Libraries and society
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23947 , vital:61993
- Description: This study investigated the impact of public libraries as a transformative factor in human development in the Buffalo City Municipalities. Literature revealed that although libraries play a significant role to their clientele, there seems to be challenges of service delivery in public libraries and these are largely due to funding issues. This has led to a general public negative perception that public libraries underperform which may not be necessarily a true reflection of public libraries. The role of the libraries in as far as the transformative factor in human development may be unclear, therefore, the researcher wants to determine the extent of the transformation factor in human development. The study was guided by the following objectives to: examine the impact of public library to its community or patrons in the Buffalo city libraries, find determine whether the library personnel understand their role in transforming the human development, determine the strategies used by public libraries that are transforming the human factor and to establish how the library patrons perceive the role of the public libraries in transforming their lives. A mixed methods approach was used as the research method. Qualitative and quantitative research methods were combined while simple random sampling was adopted to have a wide range of perspectives from library users. Library staff were purposively selected for interviews. A total of 31 people were interviewed, with 6 librarians and 25 library patrons. Out of 250 questionnaires administered, 220 were returned. The study was informed by the Service quality theory (SERVQUAL), Human Capital Theory and the Diffusion of Innovation Theory (DOIT). The DOIT theory was deemed suitable in this kind of research that deals with transformation and development as patrons adopted and adapted to new ideas and practices. The Service Quality theory was useful in this study because it included variables that the researcher felt were most significant for transformation and development to take place in a public library setting. The HCT theory denotes that education and training leads to greater productivity, and it translates into economic returns like high wages and increased Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This theory was relevant in this study because public libraries have an informative role to play as part of its roles as well as an educational role to play to the lives of the people who use the library. When people read at libraries, they are educated. They also improve their literacy levels through reading. Public libraries provide community members with services that are free of charge or cheaper and this helps the library patrons to save economically and transform as well. This process of servicing the needs of patrons is beneficial and continuous. In addition, the findings of this study revealed that library personnel understand their roles and those roles in turn transform the human development, although this is not really conclusive that they understand their roles in the transformation process. They ensure that the library patrons get the services they require and in some instances the library personnel even go beyond their normal duties. However, it must be noted that from the findings the main obstacles hindering libraries to effectively transforming the human development is the issue of funding and insufficient resources, Libraries have assisted in educational investment to the community members through many programmes offered in the public libraries and this assists in educational improvement and productivity in many spheres of life. The study also revealed that the public libraries provide spaces where patrons can hold meetings, discuss study related topics as well as individual studying spaces although, more space is required to avoid overcrowding. Through a number of strategies employed which are also attractive to the library patrons, public libraries transform the human development. Patrons perceive public libraries as extremely useful in transforming their lives as they indicated that the public library transform their lives in many aspects such as providing them with the information they require, learning opportunities, access to gateways of information like the internet and manual books, bridging that poverty gap and provision of literacy skills to the library patrons. It was concluded that public libraries transform the lives of the people in the communities that they serve in different aspects with the different roles and services that they offer to their patronage. In addition, a number of strategies are employed by public libraries so as to attract people into public libraries as well as to fulfil their primary mandate. In their pursuit to employ these strategies, public libraries transform the human development. Librarians with their duties assist the public yet it is unclear if they are fully aware of the role they play in transforming people’s lives. Despite some of the bad attitude exhibited by the librarians, a larger percentage of the librarians display a good attitude when carrying out their duties and assisting the library patrons. Librarians go beyond the call of duty in assisting the patrons and this in turn transform the human development. The researcher made some recommendations as per the findings of the study and these recommendations entail continuous training of the library personnel post their formal qualifications, strengthened collaboration and communication by the three spheres of Government so that the libraries may be better governed, constant awareness drives about public libraries and stable internet connectivity so that access maybe improved. The researcher also recommended the use of social media platforms for communication purposes and announcements as people are now attracted to social media platforms and they can be accessed by most of the library community. A proposed model was developed, and the proposed model is the RPPPP hierarchical model for transformative public libraries. This model was proposed also based on the findings of the research. For a public library to be transformative it must have resources, personnel, patrons, physical space and policies in place hence, the name RPPPP model. RPPPP denotes Resources, patrons, personnel, policy and physical space. Resources are primary to the functioning of any public library, highly skilled personnel as well as patrons as they are the recipients of the public library services, policy is also important so as to give guidance and direction on the issues of governance. In order to adequately serve the needs of the patrons, enough space is needed. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-08
An investigation on records management of student allocation for accommodation in selected universities of South Africa
- Authors: Mboya, Ncumisa
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Records--Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23710 , vital:58584
- Description: The study aimed at investigating the management of students’ residential records at University of Fort Hare (UFH) and Rhodes University (RU). The objectives of the study were to: Investigate the residential policies and records management policies of the University of Fort Hare and Rhodes University; Assess the records management practices at the University of Fort Hare and Rhodes University; Determine how records management affects the process of allocating accommodation to students at the University of Fort Hare and Rhodes University; Identify areas of possible improvement of records management and student satisfaction concerning accommodation and allocation in both institutions. To achieve these objectives, the study used both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. The data were collected using self-administered questionnaires and face-to-face interviews. A purposive non-probability sampling technique was used to select the participants of the study. Out of the targeted sample size of 39, the researcher administered questionnaires to 29 respondents and only 28 questionnaires were returned while 10 participants were interviewed. Therefore, a total of 38 staff members were included in the study. The qualitative data collected was analysed using thematic analysis while quantitative data collected was analysed using descriptive statistical analysis. The findings of the study showed that UFH and Rhodes University mostly make use of capturing process as one of the essential processes of records keeping used to allocate accommodation to students in their institutions. More importantly, the findings also revealed that there are different challenges faced by both universities. One of the challenges hindering student residence records at the University of Fort Hare (UFH) includes a lack of records xv management knowledge and incompetence. This might be because there are no records management personnel to take responsibility for student records. On the other hand, Rhodes University is faced with the unavailability of information sources, which might be attributed to a lack of information technology. , Thesis (MLIS) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
- Authors: Mboya, Ncumisa
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Records--Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23710 , vital:58584
- Description: The study aimed at investigating the management of students’ residential records at University of Fort Hare (UFH) and Rhodes University (RU). The objectives of the study were to: Investigate the residential policies and records management policies of the University of Fort Hare and Rhodes University; Assess the records management practices at the University of Fort Hare and Rhodes University; Determine how records management affects the process of allocating accommodation to students at the University of Fort Hare and Rhodes University; Identify areas of possible improvement of records management and student satisfaction concerning accommodation and allocation in both institutions. To achieve these objectives, the study used both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. The data were collected using self-administered questionnaires and face-to-face interviews. A purposive non-probability sampling technique was used to select the participants of the study. Out of the targeted sample size of 39, the researcher administered questionnaires to 29 respondents and only 28 questionnaires were returned while 10 participants were interviewed. Therefore, a total of 38 staff members were included in the study. The qualitative data collected was analysed using thematic analysis while quantitative data collected was analysed using descriptive statistical analysis. The findings of the study showed that UFH and Rhodes University mostly make use of capturing process as one of the essential processes of records keeping used to allocate accommodation to students in their institutions. More importantly, the findings also revealed that there are different challenges faced by both universities. One of the challenges hindering student residence records at the University of Fort Hare (UFH) includes a lack of records xv management knowledge and incompetence. This might be because there are no records management personnel to take responsibility for student records. On the other hand, Rhodes University is faced with the unavailability of information sources, which might be attributed to a lack of information technology. , Thesis (MLIS) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
Knowledge retention practices among healthcare workers at Cecilia Makiwane Hospital, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
- Authors: Jonga, Nqabakazi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Knowledge management Organizational learning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M LIS
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11461 , vital:39074
- Description: Knowledge has transformed to become an economic resource in a knowledge-based society, which determines the proficiency, progress and efficiency of any performed task. However, efficiency can be compromised when the health sector fails to retain the wealth of knowledge from experienced, senior and subject experts who have, or are about to leave or retire from the institution. Knowledge management provides for knowledge acquisition, sharing, transfer and further motivates the creation of influential atmospheres for knowledge sharing in the Public health sector. Healthcare is a knowledge driven process and thus knowledge management and the tools to manage knowledge in the healthcare sector are receiving attention. This study investigated knowledge retention practices in the Public health sector, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study was informed by the Socialisation, Externalization, Combination, Internalization SECI model of knowledge creation and conversion by Nonaka & Takeuchi (1995) and the Knowledge based theory of the firm by Grant (1996). Both theories interpret knowledge sharing and preservation as vital for institutional growth and effective service delivery. The theories advised on the establishment of platforms designated for acquisition of new knowledge, knowledge sharing and retention to assist in future decision making to obtain a competitive edge. The study employed a mixed method approach that is largely quantitative in nature. Self-administered questionnaires were adopted for quantitative data collection and three interviews were conducted with middle management to supplement the quantitative data. The reliability and validity of the research instruments was achieved through adapting, and modifying questions from previously used research instruments from the works of Dewah, (2012); Teffo, (2014) and Tatani, (2015). New questions were further developed and evaluated through expert analysis. The study took place at Cecilia Makiwane Hospital in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape. The population of the study comprised of qualified healthcare workers in the health sector mainly “nurses”. The sample size was 198 and three interviews were conducted with the middle management to obtain qualitative data. xix The findings of the study revealed that the concept of knowledge retention was not dominant in public hospitals such as Cecilia Makiwane; however, certain practices are adopted to stimulate knowledge sharing thus contributing to knowledge retention. Several factors such as budget, ICT use, time allocation, fear of losing the competitive value through knowledge sharing and absence of supporting structures or services have been identified as root causes for reduced knowledge sharing practices among healthcare workers. The study, therefore, recommends the appointment of knowledge officers who would oversee the effective implementation of knowledge management policies and adopt strategies that will assist with knowledge retention. Further recommendations are, effective integration of knowledge management practices into the system, development of an internet based system for effective communication and institutional repositories for knowledge preservation. The study concludes that the development of training programs would assist healthcare workers to be familiar with any new or old invented mechanism.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Jonga, Nqabakazi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Knowledge management Organizational learning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M LIS
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11461 , vital:39074
- Description: Knowledge has transformed to become an economic resource in a knowledge-based society, which determines the proficiency, progress and efficiency of any performed task. However, efficiency can be compromised when the health sector fails to retain the wealth of knowledge from experienced, senior and subject experts who have, or are about to leave or retire from the institution. Knowledge management provides for knowledge acquisition, sharing, transfer and further motivates the creation of influential atmospheres for knowledge sharing in the Public health sector. Healthcare is a knowledge driven process and thus knowledge management and the tools to manage knowledge in the healthcare sector are receiving attention. This study investigated knowledge retention practices in the Public health sector, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study was informed by the Socialisation, Externalization, Combination, Internalization SECI model of knowledge creation and conversion by Nonaka & Takeuchi (1995) and the Knowledge based theory of the firm by Grant (1996). Both theories interpret knowledge sharing and preservation as vital for institutional growth and effective service delivery. The theories advised on the establishment of platforms designated for acquisition of new knowledge, knowledge sharing and retention to assist in future decision making to obtain a competitive edge. The study employed a mixed method approach that is largely quantitative in nature. Self-administered questionnaires were adopted for quantitative data collection and three interviews were conducted with middle management to supplement the quantitative data. The reliability and validity of the research instruments was achieved through adapting, and modifying questions from previously used research instruments from the works of Dewah, (2012); Teffo, (2014) and Tatani, (2015). New questions were further developed and evaluated through expert analysis. The study took place at Cecilia Makiwane Hospital in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape. The population of the study comprised of qualified healthcare workers in the health sector mainly “nurses”. The sample size was 198 and three interviews were conducted with the middle management to obtain qualitative data. xix The findings of the study revealed that the concept of knowledge retention was not dominant in public hospitals such as Cecilia Makiwane; however, certain practices are adopted to stimulate knowledge sharing thus contributing to knowledge retention. Several factors such as budget, ICT use, time allocation, fear of losing the competitive value through knowledge sharing and absence of supporting structures or services have been identified as root causes for reduced knowledge sharing practices among healthcare workers. The study, therefore, recommends the appointment of knowledge officers who would oversee the effective implementation of knowledge management policies and adopt strategies that will assist with knowledge retention. Further recommendations are, effective integration of knowledge management practices into the system, development of an internet based system for effective communication and institutional repositories for knowledge preservation. The study concludes that the development of training programs would assist healthcare workers to be familiar with any new or old invented mechanism.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Managing personal archives in specialised repositories: a case study of Phillip Valentine Tobias collection(s) at the University of the Witwatersrand
- Authors: Marima, Elizabeth Nakai
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Archives management , Institutional repositories
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M LIS
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11473 , vital:39075
- Description: Personal archives are noncurrent records created by individuals that are selected and kept for their enduring value. They are a record of the past and stand as evidence of what transpired. They make part of repository holdings together with public archives in organisational repositories. Public archives document transactions, statutes, procedures, and regulations. Personal archives contain the documentation of individual lives, emotions, values, experiences and human personality. They seek to reflect the character of the individual who created them. Management of personal archives in repositories refers to their acquisition, collection, arrangement, description, preservation, conservation, creation if access and use. Therefore, the main purpose of this study is to investigate the managing of personal archives in specialized repositories: A case study of Phillip Valentine Tobias Collection(s) at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. The study sought to investigate the legal framework that regulates managing of personal archives and the experiences, perceptions and expectations of people managing the personal archives. Furthermore, the study sought to identify strategies of improving the management of personal archives at University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. The study was motivated by the archival theory that conceptualizes grouping of records together for their content and contextual value as evidence with the aim of restating the past. The theory further defines personal archives as records of continued value created by an individual which accumulated naturally, impartially and without prejudice in order to accurately witness the past. The study used a qualitative methodology and was guided by the interpretivist research paradigm. Data was collected using open-ended questions to conduct semi-structured interviews. To complement data, a document analysis, focus group and casual observation were also used. The site of study was University of the Witwatersrand. The total population constituted 41 staff members working in six special repositories with the Phillip Tobias collections at University of the Witwatersrand. The sample size was 25 staff members working in three special repositories. The qualitative data was reported verbartim and the Constant Comparative method was used for data analysis. The findings indicated challenges to the archival theory as the contextual grouping of personal archives was distorted. The study also showed that the archives were xv mismanaged due to framework irregularities, lack of top management support and limited resources. The major resources that were limited were infrastructure, archival ICT systems, human resources and training needs. From the interviews, the research identified strategies of improving the management of personal archives. The study recommended that the university benchmark for archival support strategies and to also engage in existence justification initiatives to harness top management’s attention towards the archive. Out of the identified strategies, the study suggested a tailor made strategy, which combined aspects of each strategy in order to avoid associated challenges.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Marima, Elizabeth Nakai
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Archives management , Institutional repositories
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M LIS
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11473 , vital:39075
- Description: Personal archives are noncurrent records created by individuals that are selected and kept for their enduring value. They are a record of the past and stand as evidence of what transpired. They make part of repository holdings together with public archives in organisational repositories. Public archives document transactions, statutes, procedures, and regulations. Personal archives contain the documentation of individual lives, emotions, values, experiences and human personality. They seek to reflect the character of the individual who created them. Management of personal archives in repositories refers to their acquisition, collection, arrangement, description, preservation, conservation, creation if access and use. Therefore, the main purpose of this study is to investigate the managing of personal archives in specialized repositories: A case study of Phillip Valentine Tobias Collection(s) at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. The study sought to investigate the legal framework that regulates managing of personal archives and the experiences, perceptions and expectations of people managing the personal archives. Furthermore, the study sought to identify strategies of improving the management of personal archives at University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. The study was motivated by the archival theory that conceptualizes grouping of records together for their content and contextual value as evidence with the aim of restating the past. The theory further defines personal archives as records of continued value created by an individual which accumulated naturally, impartially and without prejudice in order to accurately witness the past. The study used a qualitative methodology and was guided by the interpretivist research paradigm. Data was collected using open-ended questions to conduct semi-structured interviews. To complement data, a document analysis, focus group and casual observation were also used. The site of study was University of the Witwatersrand. The total population constituted 41 staff members working in six special repositories with the Phillip Tobias collections at University of the Witwatersrand. The sample size was 25 staff members working in three special repositories. The qualitative data was reported verbartim and the Constant Comparative method was used for data analysis. The findings indicated challenges to the archival theory as the contextual grouping of personal archives was distorted. The study also showed that the archives were xv mismanaged due to framework irregularities, lack of top management support and limited resources. The major resources that were limited were infrastructure, archival ICT systems, human resources and training needs. From the interviews, the research identified strategies of improving the management of personal archives. The study recommended that the university benchmark for archival support strategies and to also engage in existence justification initiatives to harness top management’s attention towards the archive. Out of the identified strategies, the study suggested a tailor made strategy, which combined aspects of each strategy in order to avoid associated challenges.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
The impact of public libraries in the Eastern Cape Province with reference to three Buffalo City Municipal libraries in King Williams' Town
- Authors: Gunuza, Nokuthula
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Public libraries Information services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M.Bibl
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16452 , vital:40721
- Description: The study sought to investigate the impact of public libraries in developing information literacy in libraries in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa: a case study of Buffalo City Municipality public libraries in King William’s Town. The objectives of the study were to find out how these three libraries in Buffalo City Metro public libraries ensure equity of library and information services provision to the user communities, to find out how public libraries support education and lifelong learning, to identify the challenges that public libraries face in rendering library and information services with reference to the three libraries, and to investigate the role of library professionals in marketing the library services to the community. Both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies were employed in a descriptive survey. The main research instrument was a questionnaire supported by face to face interviews. A total of 297 questionnaires were distributed and 200 were returned giving a response rate of 67.3%. The quantitative data which was collected through questionnaire was presented using graphs and tables, while qualitative was analysed manually by content analysis, using the notes that were taken by the researcher from the respondents during the interview sessions and reported verbatim in some instances. The findings showed that regardless of South African LIS environment having contradictions resulting from years of apartheid, most of the Buffalo City Metro public library patrons indicated that they experienced fair and equitable access to library and information services. In addition to participants’ quantitative responses, the qualitative excerpts from librarians attested to the library having a classification system that allows easy access to library resources. In addition, findings of the study also revealed that the Buffalo City Metro public libraries have a diversity of users, ranging from different age groups and social standing. The results from the current study revealed that the Buffalo City metropolitan public library users have little knowledge about literacy programmes that are taking place in the library. The findings also indicated that the Buffalo City Metro public libraries market library services by word of mouth, posters and notice boards. One of the major findings of the study is that Buffalo City Metro public libraries are faced with financial constraints and that led to a myriad of challenges ranging from inadequate library operating hours; limited information sources; lack of information retrieval training to patrons; internet connectivity issues; xii lack of professional staff and lack of training on the latest technological trends. The study concludes that the Buffalo City Metro public libraries should establish a marketing strategy to motivate for funding. The study recommended that the Buffalo City public libraries should create an integrated system for all libraries in the metromunicipality that encourages adult literacy programme to raise awareness of information literacy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Gunuza, Nokuthula
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Public libraries Information services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M.Bibl
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16452 , vital:40721
- Description: The study sought to investigate the impact of public libraries in developing information literacy in libraries in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa: a case study of Buffalo City Municipality public libraries in King William’s Town. The objectives of the study were to find out how these three libraries in Buffalo City Metro public libraries ensure equity of library and information services provision to the user communities, to find out how public libraries support education and lifelong learning, to identify the challenges that public libraries face in rendering library and information services with reference to the three libraries, and to investigate the role of library professionals in marketing the library services to the community. Both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies were employed in a descriptive survey. The main research instrument was a questionnaire supported by face to face interviews. A total of 297 questionnaires were distributed and 200 were returned giving a response rate of 67.3%. The quantitative data which was collected through questionnaire was presented using graphs and tables, while qualitative was analysed manually by content analysis, using the notes that were taken by the researcher from the respondents during the interview sessions and reported verbatim in some instances. The findings showed that regardless of South African LIS environment having contradictions resulting from years of apartheid, most of the Buffalo City Metro public library patrons indicated that they experienced fair and equitable access to library and information services. In addition to participants’ quantitative responses, the qualitative excerpts from librarians attested to the library having a classification system that allows easy access to library resources. In addition, findings of the study also revealed that the Buffalo City Metro public libraries have a diversity of users, ranging from different age groups and social standing. The results from the current study revealed that the Buffalo City metropolitan public library users have little knowledge about literacy programmes that are taking place in the library. The findings also indicated that the Buffalo City Metro public libraries market library services by word of mouth, posters and notice boards. One of the major findings of the study is that Buffalo City Metro public libraries are faced with financial constraints and that led to a myriad of challenges ranging from inadequate library operating hours; limited information sources; lack of information retrieval training to patrons; internet connectivity issues; xii lack of professional staff and lack of training on the latest technological trends. The study concludes that the Buffalo City Metro public libraries should establish a marketing strategy to motivate for funding. The study recommended that the Buffalo City public libraries should create an integrated system for all libraries in the metromunicipality that encourages adult literacy programme to raise awareness of information literacy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Knowledge sharing practices amongst librarians in selected federal universities in South-Western Nigeria
- Authors: Bolanle, Akanbi Hawwa
- Date: 2017-11
- Subjects: Knowledge management , Academic libraries
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25289 , vital:64139
- Description: This study focused on Knowledge Sharing Practices Amongst Librarians in Selected Federal Universities in South-Western Nigerian. The southwest geopolitical zone chosen for this study is one of the largest geopolitical zones in Nigeria. The zone has six states with six Federal universities. Each of the states in south-west zone in Nigeria has one Federal University. The study was targeted at Librarians in each of the Federal Universities. These Librarians studied were from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Ile Ife, Federal University of Technology (FUTA) Akure, University of Lagos (UNILAG) Akoka, Federal University of Oye Ekiti (FUOYE) Oye Ekiti, University of Ibadan (UI) Ibadan and Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta (FUNAAB). The aforementioned universities are located in Osun State, Ondo State, Lagos State, Ekiti State, and Oyo State, respectively. Specifically, the objectives of this study were to determine the factors that affect the knowledge sharing practices amongst librarians in the south western Federal universities in Nigeria; to find out the perception of librarians on knowledge sharing in the Federal University libraries; to investigate the method of sharing knowledge and the effectiveness of such methods among academic librarians at the selected Universities in Nigeria; as well as to determine the extent to which librarians in Federal Universities encourage information exchange and the use of modern technologies. In order to achieve these, a multistage sampling technique was used. Purposive sampling technique was first used with the criteria that all the universities selected must be owned by Federal government; and only professional librarians in the respective university libraries participated. The Total enumerative technique was also used although not all professional librarians across the six federal universities were reached, owing to few limitations. However, 147 professional librarians across all six federal university libraries in south-western zone, Nigeria were randomly selected and eventually used for the purposes of this study. This study makes use of triangulation for data collection. In other words, the instruments used for all the data collected are Questionnaire, Interview and Focus Group Discussion. This was because the nature of data collected is a combination of qualitative and quantitative data. Questionnaires (147) were administered to librarians in all the federal universities with the aid of research assistants in each of the institution libraries. Descriptive and Inferential Statistics were used to analyse the data gathered with the aid of Statistical package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23. Subsequently, the Interview and Focus Group Discussion were organized after retrieving data gathered through questionnaires. Focus Group Discussion (FGD) was used to get some facts in line with the objectives of the study from librarians in the areas of study. This was done with the aid of a tape recorder, which was later transcribed and descriptively analyzed. Data gathered with the aid of interview and FGD were transcribed and interpreted. From all the instruments across the areas of study, it was found that the rate at which knowledge is shared through meetings and workshops is not encouraging as the findings showed that there was a very low response in this regard. The study concluded that there were several factors that affect knowledge sharing practices in the study site. Some of the key factors that influence knowledge sharing practices include: organizational structure, provision of incentives, Managerial practices, improved ICT, social relationship and training. This therefore suggests that organizational structure, provision of incentives, managerial practices, improved ICT, social relationship, training, trust, peer influence and perceived reciprocal benefit have a significant effect on knowledge sharing practices amongst librarians in South-western federal University libraries. It was found that there was a positive and significant effect of organizational structure on knowledge sharing practices amongst librarians. Results of the descriptive statistics on the perception of some librarians showed that librarians understood the concept of knowledge sharing as they agreed that knowledge possessed by an individual should be shared with another individual. In addition, on average, librarians supported the fact that knowledge sharing can bring innovation and creativity to library services. Although the findings were somehow consistent with previous studies, this study noted a number of contradictions and gaps that border on some of these factors. These are mode of sharing knowledge; particularly with respect to the availability of ICT facilities and their usage and the extent to which librarians in the study area share their knowledge which seems to be somehow not encouraging. Based on the findings, it was recommended that Organizational structures within each University library should be friendly and productive. Subsequently, No matter what, more is better than less. Librarians in all the six selected Southwestern university libraries should be motivated by giving them more incentives or rewards (both intrinsic and extrinsic rewards). In other words, there is a need for the management of the respective institutions to introduce additional incentives in order for their staff (librarians) to be fully motivated to increase their impetus to engage more in knowledge sharing practices. Despite the positive perception of librarians in the area of study, they still need to be motivated. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2017
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017-11
- Authors: Bolanle, Akanbi Hawwa
- Date: 2017-11
- Subjects: Knowledge management , Academic libraries
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25289 , vital:64139
- Description: This study focused on Knowledge Sharing Practices Amongst Librarians in Selected Federal Universities in South-Western Nigerian. The southwest geopolitical zone chosen for this study is one of the largest geopolitical zones in Nigeria. The zone has six states with six Federal universities. Each of the states in south-west zone in Nigeria has one Federal University. The study was targeted at Librarians in each of the Federal Universities. These Librarians studied were from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Ile Ife, Federal University of Technology (FUTA) Akure, University of Lagos (UNILAG) Akoka, Federal University of Oye Ekiti (FUOYE) Oye Ekiti, University of Ibadan (UI) Ibadan and Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta (FUNAAB). The aforementioned universities are located in Osun State, Ondo State, Lagos State, Ekiti State, and Oyo State, respectively. Specifically, the objectives of this study were to determine the factors that affect the knowledge sharing practices amongst librarians in the south western Federal universities in Nigeria; to find out the perception of librarians on knowledge sharing in the Federal University libraries; to investigate the method of sharing knowledge and the effectiveness of such methods among academic librarians at the selected Universities in Nigeria; as well as to determine the extent to which librarians in Federal Universities encourage information exchange and the use of modern technologies. In order to achieve these, a multistage sampling technique was used. Purposive sampling technique was first used with the criteria that all the universities selected must be owned by Federal government; and only professional librarians in the respective university libraries participated. The Total enumerative technique was also used although not all professional librarians across the six federal universities were reached, owing to few limitations. However, 147 professional librarians across all six federal university libraries in south-western zone, Nigeria were randomly selected and eventually used for the purposes of this study. This study makes use of triangulation for data collection. In other words, the instruments used for all the data collected are Questionnaire, Interview and Focus Group Discussion. This was because the nature of data collected is a combination of qualitative and quantitative data. Questionnaires (147) were administered to librarians in all the federal universities with the aid of research assistants in each of the institution libraries. Descriptive and Inferential Statistics were used to analyse the data gathered with the aid of Statistical package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23. Subsequently, the Interview and Focus Group Discussion were organized after retrieving data gathered through questionnaires. Focus Group Discussion (FGD) was used to get some facts in line with the objectives of the study from librarians in the areas of study. This was done with the aid of a tape recorder, which was later transcribed and descriptively analyzed. Data gathered with the aid of interview and FGD were transcribed and interpreted. From all the instruments across the areas of study, it was found that the rate at which knowledge is shared through meetings and workshops is not encouraging as the findings showed that there was a very low response in this regard. The study concluded that there were several factors that affect knowledge sharing practices in the study site. Some of the key factors that influence knowledge sharing practices include: organizational structure, provision of incentives, Managerial practices, improved ICT, social relationship and training. This therefore suggests that organizational structure, provision of incentives, managerial practices, improved ICT, social relationship, training, trust, peer influence and perceived reciprocal benefit have a significant effect on knowledge sharing practices amongst librarians in South-western federal University libraries. It was found that there was a positive and significant effect of organizational structure on knowledge sharing practices amongst librarians. Results of the descriptive statistics on the perception of some librarians showed that librarians understood the concept of knowledge sharing as they agreed that knowledge possessed by an individual should be shared with another individual. In addition, on average, librarians supported the fact that knowledge sharing can bring innovation and creativity to library services. Although the findings were somehow consistent with previous studies, this study noted a number of contradictions and gaps that border on some of these factors. These are mode of sharing knowledge; particularly with respect to the availability of ICT facilities and their usage and the extent to which librarians in the study area share their knowledge which seems to be somehow not encouraging. Based on the findings, it was recommended that Organizational structures within each University library should be friendly and productive. Subsequently, No matter what, more is better than less. Librarians in all the six selected Southwestern university libraries should be motivated by giving them more incentives or rewards (both intrinsic and extrinsic rewards). In other words, there is a need for the management of the respective institutions to introduce additional incentives in order for their staff (librarians) to be fully motivated to increase their impetus to engage more in knowledge sharing practices. Despite the positive perception of librarians in the area of study, they still need to be motivated. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2017
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017-11
Investigation on the nature of records management in the office of the Premier Supply Chain management
- Authors: Vakalisa, Ndileka
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Grahamstown (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27606 , vital:69319
- Description: The purpose of the study was to investigate on the nature of records management in the office of the Premier Supply Chain Management. This study focuses on the Supply Chain Unit in the office of the Premier in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study sought to investigate the classification systems in place that is records management policy, procedure manual and file plans. The legal framework that regulates archives. Data was collected using open-ended questionnaire. The target population of this study included all the officials within the Office of the Premier. The sample of 15 was derived from the supply chain management officials, records management managers and directors. The study adopted a qualitative research methodology, which is multimethod in its orientation, which involves an interpretative, naturalistic emphasis to its subject issue. Findings from the study revealed that the unit had its internal records management policy, an official framework document that outlined the processes involved in organising records within the department. Thus, there are policy frameworks within the department even though not clearly described to other employees, which might lead to risks in the management of records. The study also revealed that most records personnel were not trained to effectively manage records. It was also indicated that there is a lack of proper filing system and or electronic records management system. Hence, for effective and efficient records management, the study recommends the creation of a web-based integrated system for communication and where records can be accessed within one system. The study also recommends proper training of records personnel to mitigate risks. Hence, the study recommends that senior management create and implement a records management program that clearly outlines the procedures of records management, risks factors and how to minimize them. This will aide in good practice, uniformity, standardization, high levels of professionalism, accountability, and transparency. , Thesis (MLIS) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2017
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Vakalisa, Ndileka
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Grahamstown (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27606 , vital:69319
- Description: The purpose of the study was to investigate on the nature of records management in the office of the Premier Supply Chain Management. This study focuses on the Supply Chain Unit in the office of the Premier in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study sought to investigate the classification systems in place that is records management policy, procedure manual and file plans. The legal framework that regulates archives. Data was collected using open-ended questionnaire. The target population of this study included all the officials within the Office of the Premier. The sample of 15 was derived from the supply chain management officials, records management managers and directors. The study adopted a qualitative research methodology, which is multimethod in its orientation, which involves an interpretative, naturalistic emphasis to its subject issue. Findings from the study revealed that the unit had its internal records management policy, an official framework document that outlined the processes involved in organising records within the department. Thus, there are policy frameworks within the department even though not clearly described to other employees, which might lead to risks in the management of records. The study also revealed that most records personnel were not trained to effectively manage records. It was also indicated that there is a lack of proper filing system and or electronic records management system. Hence, for effective and efficient records management, the study recommends the creation of a web-based integrated system for communication and where records can be accessed within one system. The study also recommends proper training of records personnel to mitigate risks. Hence, the study recommends that senior management create and implement a records management program that clearly outlines the procedures of records management, risks factors and how to minimize them. This will aide in good practice, uniformity, standardization, high levels of professionalism, accountability, and transparency. , Thesis (MLIS) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2017
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
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