Master of Library & Information Studies

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11951/853

Browse

Now showing 1 - 11 of 11

Examining Virtual Reference Services in Academic Libraries of Central Uganda: A Case of Nkumba University Library
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-09) Cissy Nakiridde Kamulegeya
The advancement of technology has revolutionized reference services in academic libraries by transforming them into Virtual Reference Services (VRS). This study aimed to examine the perception and usage patterns of VRS at Nkumba University Library in order to develop a framework for enhancing VRS provision within the library if any gaps are identified. The objectives of the study were to: find out the virtual reference services provided at Nkumba University Library; examine user perceptions of virtual reference services at Nkumba University Library; determine usage patterns of virtual reference services at Nkumba University Library; and develop a framework to enhance perceptions and usage patterns of virtual reference services at Nkumba University Library. The study employed a case study research design and mixed-methods approach. The study population was composed of 15 librarians and 79 course leaders, from which a sample size of 76 was obtained. Data was collected through questionnaires and structured interviews. Purposive and simple random sampling were used. The findings revealed that Nkumba University Library offers various VRS, including online chat services, email reference, and video reference, with online chat being the most popular. While 88.3% of students were aware of the VRS, only 38.3% were very familiar with the services. The primary reasons for using VRS included accessing library databases (65%), citation help (43.3%), and locating scholarly articles (28.3%). However, only 25% used VRS for clarifying research questions. Key challenges faced included lack of funding, understaffing, and limited computers and technology. To enhance perceptions and usage patterns of VRS, the study proposes a framework that includes user education and training, improving service quality, enhanced promotion, upgrading technology, staff development, user feedback, and collaboration with other institutions. By implementing this framework, Nkumba University Library can address the identified gaps and improve user satisfaction and engagement with VRS, ultimately strengthening its role as a vital academic resource.
Evaluation of Digital Preservation Initiatives in Cultural Institutions: The Case of Tooro Kingdom
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-12-25) Sam Obunaka
Digital preservation is necessary to ensure the longevity of archives in cultural institutions. This study examined the digital preservation initiatives at Tooro Kingdom and their impact on accessing archives. The primary aim was to assess the effectiveness of these initiatives in preserving the Kingdom's cultural heritage and to identify the challenges faced in this process. The research focused on four key areas: identifying the types of archives that have been digitized, analysing the current digital preservation efforts, exploring the challenges affecting these initiatives, and developing a framework to enhance digital preservation practices. The study was qualitative involving 20 participants from Tooro Kingdom and Mountains of the Moon University. The findings revealed that Tooro Kingdom has made significant progress in digitizing various archives, including historical documents, audio recordings, economic records, government agreements, and public health information. This digitization is crucial for safeguarding the Kingdom's rich cultural heritage and ensuring that valuable historical narratives remain accessible for future generations. However, the study also highlighted several critical challenges, including the absence of specific policies guiding the selection and management of digital archives, technological limitations, funding constraints, and organizational issues. These barriers hinder the effective management and accessibility of digital archives, emphasizing the need for improved infrastructure and dedicated resources. To address these challenges, the study proposes a comprehensive framework that integrates established best practices from recognized models in digital preservation, such as the OAIS reference model and the NDSA Levels of Digital Preservation. This framework emphasizes the importance of collaboration between Tooro Kingdom and Mountains of the Moon University, aiming to strengthen resource sharing and expertise in archive management. Additionally, the framework advocates for the establishment of clear policies and guidelines to prioritize preservation efforts, enhance metadata management, and ensure long-term accessibility of digital materials. By implementing this framework, Tooro Kingdom can significantly improve its digital preservation capabilities, ensuring that its cultural heritage is not only preserved but also celebrated and shared with future generations. The study ultimately underscores the importance of strategic planning and collaboration in the realm of digital preservation, contributing valuable insights to the broader field of cultural heritage management.
The Contribution of Continuous Staff Development Programs to Service Delivery at Kabale University Library
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-22) Prudence Kembabazi
Continuous staff development programmes are vital for staff because they ensure that they remain with relevant skills needed for their performance. This study examined the contribution of continuous staff development programmes to service delivery at Kabale University Library to recommend strategies to improve service delivery within the university library based on the study findings. The study's objectives were to: identify continuous staff development programs that have been implemented at Kabale University Library; ii) to determine the efficacy of continuous staff development programs towards service delivery at Kabale University Library; iii) to examine the challenges faced in the implementation of continuous staff development programs at Kabale University Library; and iv) to recommend strategies to improve continuous staff development programs at Kabale University Library. This study used a case study research design and a mixed methods research approach. The study population was composed of 30 people who were all adopted as the sample size (cluster sample size). Data was collected through the use of questionnaires and structured interviews. The study findings revealed that the continuous staff development programs implemented at Kabale University Library included workshops, conferences, seminars, online courses, higher education, in-house training, study visits, networking, on-the-job training, case studies, mentorship and coaching and digital literacy pieces of training. They study findings also demonstrated that continuous staff development programs improved staff competencies and expertise, enhanced staff professionalism, improved information access in the university library, facilitated the provision of quality university library services and enhanced customer satisfaction. The challenges faced included time constraints, poor staff attitudes, low motivation levels, inadequate training facilities, limited continuous development programs, limited funding, among others. It was concluded that Kabale University Library ought to adopt continuous staff development programs which promote the dissemination of information and knowledge transmission, should implement continuous staff development programs which enhance efficiency and effectiveness during service provision and that the challenges which affects the implementation of continuous staff development programs needed to be resolved. The study recommended strengthening communication and awareness about available continuous staff development programs, staff involvement in planning and implementation of continuous staff development programs and developing strategies to address the challenges faced as ways for improving continuous staff development programs at Kabale University library.
Efficient and Effective Management of Land Complaints Records at Ministry of Lands, Housing & Urban Development (MLHUD)
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-08-28) Eva Najjuka
Good complaint records management practices can enhance the complaint resolution process in government agencies such as the Ugandan Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development (MLHUD). This study aimed to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of land complaints records management at the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development (MLHUD) in Uganda and propose improvement strategies. The objectives of the study were to: i)Assess the effectiveness of land complaints records management from capture to storage at MLHUD. ii) Evaluate land complaints records management retrieval processes at MLHUD. iii) Analyze the land complaints records management disposal and preservation system at MLHUD. iv) Explore the security measures of land complaints records management at MLHUD. A qualitative research approach and a document review retrospective research design were employed. Data was collected through structured interviews with 21 MLHUD staff and document review. The study revealed significant shortcomings in land complaints records management at MLHUD. Manual processes, paper-based records, and outdated technology hindered efficiency, accuracy, and accessibility. Retrieval was complex and time-consuming. Disposal and preservation lacked a structured plan, and security measures were inadequate. It was concluded that the current land complaints records management system at MLHUD is inefficient, ineffective, and poses significant risks to data integrity and security. This impacts service delivery, public trust, and land rights protection. A modern digital system, comprehensive staff training, a customized disposal plan, standardized recordkeeping, enhanced physical and digital security, and regular security awareness campaigns are recommended to improve land complaints records management at MLHUD.
Managing Electronic Health Records: A Case Study of Rocket Health Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-06-04) Sam Simati
Digital health service providers such as Rocket Health rely on electronic health records for health service delivery. This study aimed at examining the management of electronic health records at Rocket Health so as to design an evidence-based framework for electronic health records management at Rocket Health. The study's objectives were: i) to find out the health services provided at Rocket Health; ii) to examine the records management practices at Rocket Health; iii) to find out the inhibitors to effective electronic health records management at Rocket Health; and iv) to design an evidence-based framework for the management of electronic health records at Rocket Health. A case study research design was used with a mixed-methods approach. The study's population consisted of twenty-five staff working at Rocket Health who were purposively selected as the sample size. Data was collected through structured face-to-face interviews, document reviews and questionnaires. The results revealed that some of the health services provided at Rocket Health included telehealth services, pharmacy services, last mile services and an e-shop. It was also revealed that the records management practices included records creation, records maintenance, records preservation and records conservation. Records disposal was not conducted. The inhibitors to effective electronic health records management included the lack of records management training, hacking and human errors. It was concluded that most of the health services provided at Rocket Health were digital and thus resulted in the production of electronic health records. Additionally, electronic health records were created from different service points and captured and managed by a cloud-based system. However, the cloud-based system was prone to security threats from both internal and external stakeholders. A framework for managing electronic health records was designed based on the findings of the study. The framework covered electronic health records processes, management of health data/information flow, records security and quality considerations. The study recommended collaboration between information technology practitioners and healthcare staff to improve electronic health records management, enforcement of security controls to improve records security, proper capture of electronic health records to improve their quality and performing quality checks as a way of enhancing the management of electronic health records at Rocket Health.
Adoption of E-learning in Selected Schools of Library and Information Science (LIS) in Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-05-16) Joseph Wejuli
This research examined the adoption of e-learning in LIS education schools by comparing e-learning adoption at EASLIS and UCU to determine whether there were any significant differences and to propose strategies to improve their adoption rates of e-learning. The research's objectives were: i) to compare the e-learning initiatives at EASLIS and UCU; ii) to compare the degree of user-adoption of e-learning at EASLIS and UCU; iii) to examine the challenges affecting the adoption of e-learning at EASLIS and UCU; and iv) to propose strategies to increase the adoption of e-learning at EASLIS and UCU. The research design was a comparative case study with a mixed-methods research approach. The sample size consisted of 22 study participants who composed the entire target population. The data collection methods used were questionnaires and structured interviews. The research findings revealed that both LIS education schools had e-learning initiatives, however, UCU had less management support and did not have a governing committee to manage e-learning. It was further revealed that the degree of user-adoption of e-learning in both LIS education schools was high, however, there were limitations such as the need for staff to get their own Zoom licences at UCU and the low compliance levels among staff at EASLIS. It was also revealed that the LIS education schools suffered from limited funding, high connectivity costs and intellectual challenges, among others. UCU was also understaffed and staff at EASLIS showed low complacency levels and were overworked. The study concluded that there was a need for UCU to install an e-learning governing committee and to lobby for more management support. It was also concluded that both LIS education schools needed to train their staff in delivering engaging e-learning content. It was further concluded that both LIS education schools had to lobby for more financial support. Lastly, EASLIS had to improve staff compliance levels and UCU had to recruit more staff. For EASLIS, the study recommended increasing sensitisation levels to enhance staff compliance and scheduling content delivery as a strategy to reduce staff workloads. For UCU, the study recommended hiring more staff to fill the human resource gaps, purchasing Zoom licences for staff to limit them from using personal resources, lobbying for management support and installing an e-learning government committee. For both EASLIS and UCU, the study recommended lobbying for more funding and conducting staff training to improve their capacity to deliver engaging content.
The Contribution of Mbale Public Library to the Achievement of Selected Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-05-13) Ayubu Kisubi
The roadmap to a brighter and more sustainable future for everybody is found in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SDGs deal with issues such as environmental degradation, climate change, poverty, inequality, and peace and justice that are prevalent worldwide. This study examined Mbale Public Library's contribution towards achieving SDGs 4 (Quality Education) and 11(sustainable cities and communities). The study's objectives were: i) to examine the services provided by Mbale Public Library that contribute to SDGs 4 and 11; ii) to analyse the effectiveness of Mbale Public Library’s services towards the achievement of SDGs 4 and 11; iii) to investigate the challenges (if any) hindering the contribution of Mbale Public Library towards the achievement of SDGs 4 and 11; and iv) to propose strategies/solutions to amplify Mbale Public Library’s contribution towards the achievement of SDGs 4 and 11. A case study research design and a mixed-methods research approach were used for the study. The study population was composed of 101 study participants, of which 50 were adopted as the sample size. The data collection methods used included structured questionnaires, structured interviews and document review. The findings revealed that the services Mbale Public Library provides to contribute to SDGs 4 and 11 include but are not limited to information service provision, internet services and offering pieces of training. The findings also revealed that Mbale Public Library contributed towards the achievement of SDGs 4 and 11 by bridging the information access gap, fostering knowledge sharing and bridging the digital divide gap, among others. Further, the findings also revealed that the challenges that hindered Mbale Public Library from contributing to SDGs 4 and 11 included inadequate funding, poor infrastructure, low compliance levels, among others. Based on these findings, it was concluded that the services provided by Mbale Public Library equipped the library users with relevant knowledge and skills to make informed decisions and participate in society development. It was also concluded that Mbale Public Library was contributing to the achievement of SDGs 4 and 11 through the services it was providing. Lastly, the study concluded that there was a need to solve the challenges hindering Mbale Public Library from contributing to SDGs 4 and 11 to enhance its capacity in promoting SDGs 4 and 11. Based on the study findings and conclusions, it was recommended that Mbale Public Library should form strategic alliances to enhance its internal capacity in contributing to SDGs 4 and 11, embed the SDGs into its strategic plans and acquire more content on SDGs 4 and 11.
Influence of Public Relations on the Management of Library and Information Services at Makerere University Business School Library
(2023-10-13) Akurut Racheal
Public Relations recognises the library’s contribution to the conservation, preservation, and distribution of information for national development which allows the librarians to improve the library’s reputation so that more people will use its services. The purpose of this study was to establish the PR in the Makerere University Business School library’s management of library and information services. The study sought intended to achieve four goals: to identify PR activities at MUBS Library, to establish the contributions of PR to academic libraries, to identify the influence of “PR on the management of library and information services” and to explore the set- backs to carry out PR activities at MUBS Library. The study data were gathered from forty (40) respondents using a case study research design and a qualitative research approach, of which 12 were library personnel and 28 were students enrolled in masters and degree programs. The findings revealed that: PR activities at MUBS library are the dissemination of information, promotion of awareness and publicity, creating a good image of the library & provision of information materials. PR influence involved establishing and maintaining mutual lines of communication, publicity, advertisements, arranging and managing press conferences, exhibitions, library week, creation of communications, determining needs, priorities, goals and objectives and PR team contacting media houses. Setbacks were PR technological advancement, obsolescence of library services, diversity management issues, unskilled manpower and limited staff, high costs, poor reading culture, resistance to change and existing budget for the library. For PR and management employees to efficiently carry out their core responsibilities and promote the library’s services, it was determined that MUBS must provide them with the necessary support. Given the above, it was recommended that the PR team should always be trained to be able to conduct PR activities, MUBS management should intensify advertising, lobbying and publicity to improve communication with the public and adopt publicity tools to market library services.
Examining the Current Collection Development Practices in the Uganda Institute of Information and Communications Technology
(2022-10) NalunkumaElizabeth
Collection development practices facilitate the development of quality collections. This study aimed at examining the current collection development practices in the Uganda Information and Communications Institute (UICT) Library to determine if they were effective for building relevant collections at the UICT library. The objectives of the study were: i) to find out how collections are developed at the UICT library; ii) to determine the factors that influence collection development at the UICT library; iii) to investigate the challenges affecting collection development at the UICT library; and iv) to obtain strategies for improving collection development at the UICT library. A case study research design was adopted for the study. The researcher used a qualitative research approach with study participants from the library, faculty and student representatives. In total, the study had 14 study participants. The data collection methods used were an interview guide and document reviews. The study findings revealed that UICT had a collection development policy although it was only known to the library staff. The faculty staff and students had no knowledge about the collection development policy nor its contents. The study also revealed that students were entirely not involved in the collection development process although faculty staff were asked to provide titles for collections they deemed necessary through a group email from the librarians. All study participants complained that their recommendations were never considered. The researcher also found out that collection development was limited by budget constraints, lack of user involvement, lack of ICT training among others. The study participants proposed being involved in the collection development process, taking their recommendations seriously and using library fees for collection development among the ways to improve collection development. The study concluded that the collection development practices at the UICT library were not effective in building quality collections because they left out students who were the major users of the collections. The study recommended involving all library users in the collection development process, taking into consideration staff recommendations and training library staff in collection development among the ways of improving collection development at the UICT library.
Examining the Current Collection Development Practices in the Uganda Institute of Information and Communications Technology
(2022-10) NalunkumaElizabeth
Collection development practices facilitate the development of quality collections. This study aimed at examining the current collection development practices in the Uganda Information and Communications Institute (UICT) Library to determine if they were effective for building relevant collections at the UICT library. The objectives of the study were: i) to find out how collections are developed at the UICT library; ii) to determine the factors that influence collection development at the UICT library; iii) to investigate the challenges affecting collection development at the UICT library; and iv) to obtain strategies for improving collection development at the UICT library. A case study research design was adopted for the study. The researcher used a qualitative research approach with study participants from the library, faculty and student representatives. In total, the study had 14 study participants. The data collection methods used were an interview guide and document reviews. The study findings revealed that UICT had a collection development policy although it was only known to the library staff. The faculty staff and students had no knowledge about the collection development policy nor its contents. The study also revealed that students were entirely not involved in the collection development process although faculty staff were asked to provide titles for collections they deemed necessary through a group email from the librarians. All study participants complained that their recommendations were never considered. The researcher also found out that collection development was limited by budget constraints, lack of user involvement, lack of ICT training among others. The study participants proposed being involved in the collection development process, taking their recommendations seriously and using library fees for collection development among the ways to improve collection development. The study concluded that the collection development practices at the UICT library were not effective in building quality collections because they left out students who were the major users of the collections. The study recommended involving all library users in the collection development process, taking into consideration staff recommendations and training library staff in collection development among the ways of improving collection development at the UICT library.
The Contribution of Information Literacy Competencies Towards Utilization of Information Resources Among Second Year Nursing Students of Aga Khan University, Uganda
(2019-06) Nakaziba, Sarah
The aim of this study was to examine the contribution of Information Literacy (IL) competencies towards effective utilization of information resources among Aga Khan University (AKU) Second Year Nursing Students. The study addressed the following objectives: review how IL programmes are managed at AKU, establish which IL competencies AKU Nursing Students acquire from the library staff, examine the contribution of IL competencies in the effective utilization of information resources at AKU, and identify the factors that either hinder or facilitate the utilization of information resources at AKU. The study adopted a case study research design with a qualitative research approach to collect qualitative data from 31 Second Year Nursing Students, 14 Faculty and 2 Librarians. Findings from the study revealed that most Second Year Nursing Students were not able to use the information resources because they lacked the crucial information literacy competencies (knowledge and skills). The study further revealed that way the IL programme is organized at AKU is the reason for the low levels of IL among the Second Year Nursing Students. Furthermore, the study revealed a number of factors that hinder Second Year Nursing Students from utilizing information resources at AKU to included: Lack of or slow internet connectivity, Limited IL competencies, Limited time for visiting the library while on campus, Inaccessibility to information resources, Lack of awareness of the available information resources, Users perceptions to the library collection, Poor reading habits and the bulkiness of the books. The study concluded that AKU IL programme has not effectively disseminated IL competencies to the Second Year Nursing Students because: IL course unit was not embedded in the curriculum, the training was designated for only freshmen, the model of training and time allocated are not effective for this complex subject, there is minimum Faculty-Librarian collaboration. The researcher recommended that the library should engage in aggressive IL advocacy, adoption of ACRL Information Literacy Standards for Nurses, designing of an IL policy to guide the IL implementation and teaching activities, promote current awareness of library information resources, and implement and market the library online spaces like OPAC and remote access.

Browse

Recent Submissions