AN ASSESSMENT ON EFFECTIVE UTILIZATION OF LIBRARY FACILITIES BY PEOPLE WITH MOBILITY DISABILITIES: A CASE OF UHURU MCHANGANYIKO PRIMARY SCHOOL LIBRARY, DAR -ES- SALAAM

The study focused on assessment on the effective utilization of library facilities by people with mobility disabilities at Uhuru Mchanganyiko primary school library in Dar es Salaam. The specific objectives were to identify the library facilities available for people with mobility disabilities, assess the significance of these facilities in promoting effective library use, examine the challenges faced by people with mobility disabilities in utilizing library facilities, and propose measures for improving accessibility and effective utilization of library services. The study was conducted at Uhuru Mchanganyiko primary school library using a descriptive research design. A mixed-method research approach was adopted. The study involved a sample of 30 respondents, comprising 25 library users with mobility disabilities and 5 library staff members. Respondents were selected using purposive sampling techniques. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using Microsoft Office while. The findings were presented in tables, figures, and descriptive narratives. The study revealed several challenges affecting the effective utilization of library facilities by people with mobility disabilities. These included inadequate accessible facilities, difficulty accessing library shelves and pathways, limited assistive technologies, inaccessible washroom facilities, insufficient staff training on disability support services, and inadequate financial resources for improving accessibility infrastructure. The study recommends that library management should improve physical accessibility by constructing additional ramps, widening access routes, and enhancing accessible washroom facilities. It also recommends the provision of assistive technologies, regular staff training on disability inclusion and accessible library services, increased financial support from the government and other stakeholders, and continuous assessment of users' accessibility needs. These measures will enhance equal access to information and promote inclusive library services for people with mobility disabilities.

Type

Dissertation

Language

English

Peer review

Not peer-reviewed

Licence

All rights reserved