AN ASSESSMENT OF CHILDREN READING HABIT ON TANZANIA PUBLIC LIBRARY: A CASE STUDY OF BAGAMOYO PUBLIC LIBRARY.

This study assessed children’s reading habits in Tanzania public libraries, with a case study of Bagamoyo Public Library. Specifically, the study sought to examine the frequency of children’s library visits, identify factors influencing their reading engagement, evaluate the effectiveness of existing library services, and explore challenges hindering the promotion of a sustainable reading culture. A descriptive survey research design and mixed-methods approaches were employed. The study involved a sample of 25 respondents, comprising 20 children selected through simple random sampling and 5 teachers and 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 most children visited the library infrequently, with only a small group attending daily. Parental involvement and access to resources were identified as the strongest factors influencing reading habits, while digital distractions and peer influence played lesser roles. School partnerships and story hours were found to be the most effective library services, whereas limited book availability and low parental involvement emerged as the main challenges. The study concludes that children’s reading habits in Bagamoyo Public Library are shaped primarily by parental support and resource availability. It recommends strengthening parental involvement, improving resource provision, enhancing library programs, and expanding school partnerships and outreach strategies to foster a sustainable reading culture among children.

Type

Dissertation

Language

English

Peer review

Not peer-reviewed

Licence

All rights reserved