ASSESSING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF INFORMATION LITERACY PROGRAM ON EMPOWERING COMMUNITY : A CASE STUDY OF BAGAMOYO DISTRICT LIBRARY

This study assessed the effectiveness of information literacy programs on empowering the community at Bagamoyo District Library, Tanzania. The specific objectives were to examine the strategies used in conducting the information literacy program; evaluate its impact on community empowerment; identify challenges hindering effective implementation; and propose solutions for enhancement. The study employed a descriptive case study design with a mixed-methods approach. Data were collected from 30 respondents comprising 3 library staff and 27 community members who had participated in information literacy programs using questionnaires, interviews, and observation checklists. Findings revealed that the library employs diverse strategies including lectures, group discussions, practical demonstrations, and hands-on computer practice. The programs have had positive impact on participants' abilities to find information for education (80 percent), use computers and internet confidently (73.3 percent), access government services online (60 percent), and make informed decisions in daily life (66.7 percent). However, challenges including limited computers and internet access (66.7 percent), inconvenient program times (56.7 percent), lack of awareness about program schedules (53.3 percent), and language barriers (43.3 percent) were identified. The study concludes that while information literacy programs at Bagamoyo District Library have contributed to community empowerment, their effectiveness is constrained by infrastructural, awareness, and resource challenges.

Type

Dissertation

Language

English

Peer review

Not peer-reviewed

Licence

All rights reserved