The Application of ICT in Reference Service at Kabale University Library.
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Date
2022
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kabale University
Abstract
The study was about the application of ICT in reference service at Kabale University. The study was guided by specific objectives which included to determine the extent to which application of ICT are used for rendering reference services at Kabale University Library, to identify the constraints for effective application of ICT for reference services in Kabale University and to propose the strategies for improving application of ICT for reference services in Kabale University Library. The study adopted a descriptive design using a qualitative approach. The study considered a sample size of 15 library staff of Kabale University library. Both questionnaires and interview guides were used to collect data.
The study findings indicated that information sharing, communication purposes, cataloguing and classification of library materials, issuing in and out of library materials (circulation), storage, retrieval and dissemination of information and e-resources trainings were applications of ICT use for rendering reference services at Kabale University Library.
The study findings also indicated that inadequate hardware and software, unreliable power supply, internet breakdown with low internet bandwidth, technological phobia, low level of ICT skills and literacy and inadequate financial support were constraints for effective application of ICT for reference services at Kabale University.
The study findings indicated that that training of library users, provision of internet services, availability of computer technology maintenance policy document, provision of current and up-dated computer technology equipment, providing user accounts for easy access of library resources and regular power supply were possible strategies for improving application of ICT for reference services in Kabale University Library. The researcher recommended that application of computer technologies in reference services in university libraries should be encouraged as this would boost the morale of libraries and improve efficiency of librarians in providing current and timely information to their users.
Description
Keywords
Application, ICT, Reference Service, Kabale University Library
Citation
Aharimpisya, Barnabas (2022). The Application of ICT in Reference Service at Kabale University Library. kabale: Kabale university.