AN ASSESSMENT ON LIBRARY INFORMATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS IN ACADEMIC LIBRARIES: A CASE STUDY OF DAR ES SALAAM INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (DIT) LIBRARY

ABSTRACT This study assessed the Library Information Management Systems (LIMS) at Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology (DIT) Library. Specifically, the study sought to identify the types of Library Information Management Systems available at DIT Library, examine the usage of the systems, identify challenges affecting their utilization and determine strategies for overcoming those challenges. Descriptive survey research design and mixed-methods approaches were employed. The study involved a sample of 35 respondents, comprising 30 students selected through simple random sampling and 5 library staff selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires and interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using frequencies and percentages with the aid of Microsoft Excel, while qualitative data were analyzed through thematic analysis. The findings revealed that the majority of respondents were aware of the Library Information Management Systems used at DIT Library and considered them effective in supporting library operations and academic activities. The study also established that the systems improved information retrieval, cataloguing and access to electronic resources. However, challenges such as poor internet connectivity, inadequate ICT infrastructure, insufficient technical skills and occasional system failures affected effective utilization of the systems. The study concludes that Library Information Management Systems play a significant role in improving library services at DIT Library. It recommends improvement of ICT infrastructure, continuous training for library staff and users, regular system maintenance and increased institutional investment in library technologies to enhance service delivery. vi

Type

Dissertation

Language

English

Peer review

Not peer-reviewed

Licence

All rights reserved