Professional Documents
Culture Documents
(SLADS)
BY
On behalf of
JUNE, 2022
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER ONE ........................................................................................................................................... 4
INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY .................................................................... 4
1.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................................................. 4
1.2Background of the study .......................................................................................................................... 4
1.3 Statement of the problem ........................................................................................................................ 7
1.4 Objectives of the study............................................................................................................................ 8
1.4.1 General objective ................................................................................................................................. 8
1.4.2 Specific objectives ............................................................................................................................... 8
1.5 Research question ................................................................................................................................... 8
1.6 Significance of the study ......................................................................................................................... 9
1.7 Scope of the study ................................................................................................................................... 9
1.8 Limitation of the study ............................................................................................................................ 9
1.9 Definition of key terms ......................................................................................................................... 10
LITERATURE REVIEW ........................................................................................................................... 11
2.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................................................... 11
2.2 ICT resources needed in supporting reference services in the Library ................................................. 11
2.3 The use of ICT in improving reference services in the Library ............................................................ 12
2.4 Challenges of using ICT on improving reference services in the Library ............................................ 14
2.5 Solution of the challenges of using ICT on improving reference services in the Library .................... 16
CHAPTER THREE .................................................................................................................................... 19
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY ................................................................................................................ 19
3.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................................................... 19
3.2 Research Design.................................................................................................................................... 19
3.3 Area of the study ................................................................................................................................... 19
3.4 Population of the study ......................................................................................................................... 19
3.5 Sample size........................................................................................................................................ 19
3.5.1 Sampling techniques .......................................................................................................................... 20
3.5.2 Simple random sampling ................................................................................................................... 20
3.5.3 Purposive sampling ............................................................................................................................ 21
3.6 Data collection methods and research instruments ............................................................................... 21
3.6.1 Primary data ....................................................................................................................................... 21
3.6.2 Secondary data ................................................................................................................................... 21
3.6.3 Questionnaires method....................................................................................................................... 21
3.7 Data analysis and presentation .............................................................................................................. 22
3.8 Data quality control............................................................................................................................... 22
3.9 Research Ethics ..................................................................................................................................... 22
REFERENCES ........................................................................................................................................... 23
APPENDIX I .............................................................................................................................................. 25
RESEARCH WORK PLAN/ SCHEDULE TIME FRAME ....................................................................... 25
APPENDIX II .......................................................................................................................................... 26
BUDGET .................................................................................................................................................... 26
APPENDIX III ........................................................................................................................................... 27
QUESTIONNAIRE FOR LIBRARIAN ..................................................................................................... 27
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
1.1 Introduction
This chapter focuses on the historical background of the study, statement of the problem,
objectives and research question.
Reference services in library in 1942, The American Library Association (ALA) stated the
functions of reference service: The supervision function, the information function, the
guidance function, the instruction function, the bibliographic function and the appraisal
function (Kay Ann Cassell, 2019).
According to Katz (2003) state that, Supervision function and the information function:
Supervision function, this function consists of proper organization of facilities; Selection of
reference materials; Direction of personnel, and Study of the library clientele. But the
information functions. The reference librarian should be prepared to answer all types of
questions and should be able to produce source that would answer the questions. Attempts
have also been made to classify questions in various ways. Reference librarian should be
prepared to give assistance to the enquirer as much as the requires.
The guidance function and the instruction function: The guidance function reference librarian
should be able to give guidance to the readers in the choice of books and other reading
materials and should guide them in the location of documents. The instruction function
reference Librarian should instruct the readers about how to work in the library, the use of
catalogue and reference works, the location of materials, etc. For this an orientation
programmer should be arranged to familiarize the readers with the library practices and
procedures (Katz, 2003).
The bibliographic function and the appraisal function: The bibliographies in various subjects
of interest to the readers should be prepared by the reference staff, so that the readers are able
to know the books and other reading materials in a particular subject. The appraisal function
the success in reference service largely depends upon two factors: Possession of right material
and knowledge of how to get the most out of it. Reference department are responsible to
monitor and perform this kind of services to the use. It is basically to help the user to fulfill
and satisfy their information needs (Olise, F.P. 2010).
According to Katz (2003) state that, the main functional of reference library in reference
services on using ICT is to teach user on uses of online database and to advice on searching
information, the librarian can teach the library user to use online databases such as magazine
and newspaper articles, and recommend words and search strategies for the topic the user has
in mind. And the issue of advice on searching information, the librarian can recommend
reliable web sites, give advice on searching the Internet for information, and evaluate the
reliability of the information on web sites. As so, users can gain access to information that is
reliable and accurate.
In describing library developments in Africa, we must draw a distinctive line between the
ancient and modern times. The oldest books in the world were said to be found in tightly
sealed jars in the tombs of Egypt. At the time of its conquest by Julius Caesar in 47 BC, the
famous library in Alexandria contained approximately 700,000 scrolls. Accounts of other
great empires such as those of Ghana, Senegal and Mali which flourished as early as the 4
century AD have survived in Arabic texts. In Muslim Africa, mosques played an important
role as centers of learning in as much as they housed extensive collections of secular and
religious books-library activities (Britz, 2012).
In Tanzania many libraries are using ICTs in delivering services including reference services,
Show casing e-resources, updating on current awareness, creation of local content databases
and so forth. This is therefore, evidence that the working environment in libraries have to
some extent changed affecting the role of librarians and also the image and expectations of
librarians in the job market. In a nut shell, Librarians now demanded to possess specific
competencies to be able for example to be called digital librarians or Meta data specialists,
institutional repository managers, e-reference librarians (Muneja, 2013).
1.3 Statement of the problem
The role of ICT in the provision of references services to public library in Tanzania did not
come over night. Libraries existed for many centuries without using ICTs. But as technology
emerged in the world at large, Public library embraced these tools as a means to avoid some
of the menial tasks in managing large collections. Public library can be transformed into a
new information services unit, providing electronic cataloging, electronic online public access
catalogued, electronic acquisition and serials controls, and electronic circulation functions and
reference services.
Some strength say that coming to the library is such a waste of time. Some of them are very
shy and afraid to approach the librarian at the library to ask questions and help. With the
technology available that are growing widely from time to time, we are able to reach the
library virtually without needing us to go to the library physically. Virtual reference services
enable the user to reach the librarian through the internet and ask questions to get the
information that they need. It saves time, cost and help the user especially the students to
complete their assignment on time.
But it must be realized that Public library in Tanzania are yet to adopt modern ICT. Therefore,
researcher decides to set the investigation on the role played of ICT in the improving
references services to Public library in Tanzania.
Investigation ‘An investigation is a thorough search for facts, especially those that are
hidden or need to be sorted out in a complex situation‟ (Birzer, 2018).
ICT is generic terms that refers to the technologies that are used to collect, store, edit and
communicate information in various format (Raji, 2018).
According to (Kay Ann Cassell, 2019) argue that, Reference service is defined simply
as personal assistance provided to library users seeking information. Reference services are
the services provided by the reference department in a library that helps the library patron to
get access to the information that they needed. Reference department provide library user with
direction to the library materials, give advice on library collections and services on various
kind of information form variety of sources. Reference department basically helps user to
answer the questions that the user have in mind as well as helping the user to locate the
information that they need in the library.
Public Library, this mean library that is established by government for the general public use
and a nonprofit library maintained for public use and usually supported in whole or in part
by local taxation (Dudley, 2018).
CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Introduction
This chapter will focus to give out the information and to determine the use of ICT in
improving reference services in public library in Tanzania, to determine ICT resources needed
in supporting reference services in the Library, to determine the use of ICT in improving
reference services in the Library, examine challenges of using ICT on improving reference
services in the Library and to find out solution of the challenges of using ICT on improving
reference services in the Library
2.2 ICT resources needed in supporting reference services in the Library
Computers: These are essential management tools which can be used to handle different
operations more efficiently. Computers can be used for various activities such as information
generation, processing, storage, analyzing and information dissemination for sustainable
development. The use of computers in the library is noted with great assets such as speedy
information transmission, cost effectiveness and optimal utilization of available resources.
Other computer accessories include CDs, Flash drive and so on (Wilson, 2018).
The Internet: This ICT resource is a means to speedy flow of information. It is a network of
computers, communicating with others, often via telephone line. The internet provides a
worldwide platform for information sharing among individuals, institutions and 7
organizations. The use of internet enables the provision of current and useful information to
enhance productivity and good governance (Mishra and Mishra, 2014).
According to (Mishra and Mishra, 2014) state that Electronic Mail (E-mail): This is the most
widely used resource of the internet. It is used for sending and receiving of messages
otherwise known as mails. The messages are communicated through electronic device. E-mail
enables faster and cheaper organizational communication. User can send the user can use this
need of services .
Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC): It is the computer form of library catalogue to
access information materials in the library. It is an online database of materials held by a
library or group of libraries. It is a computerized library catalogue made available to the
public. Most OPACs are accessible over the internet to users all over the world (Mishra and
Mishra, 2014).
According to (Barman, 2011) argue that, World Wide Web (WWW): This is also an
internet- based resource. Websites help individuals, organizations or institutions find products
or information and transact business. Relevant information is made available to members of
the public through the websites of many organizations or institutions. Being on the web,
places any organization on the right cause of speedy and sustainable development in line with
emergence of changes in technology.
Printing Technology: A printer is a device that converts computer output into printed images.
There are different kinds of printers used in library. They include Laser printer, Inkjet Dot-
matrix printer and so on (Nwabueze and Ozioko, 2011).
2.3 The use of ICT in improving reference services in the Library
In recent time, there has been an increased usage of ICT in provision of services in the library
including the reference services. The fast growth and advancement of these ICTs has led to
massive and progressive changes in the services offered and delivered to library clients. This
is the reason Egunjobi and Awoyemi (2013) opined that the application of ICTs such as
computers, internet, e-mail as well as other networked technologies, has opened up new and
wider possibilities and opportunities to global library and information services and products
which the traditional library cannot provide.
Before the advent of ICTs, communication in the library it was done through books,
newspapers, microforms, slides, etc. The use of telephones and computers led to the internet.
They also note that the application of telecommunications to an automated library system can
bring more efficiency to library services. Just as the Global System for Mobile
Communication (GSM) has revolutionized the daily lives of individuals, so has it enhanced
library operations, including the reference service? This implies that operations carried out
manually and physically in the reference section of the library can be done electronically
(Nicholas, 2011).
Internet provides up-to-date information on any subject. Likewise, earlier research findings
can be easily accessed through the internet. In the area of agriculture, ICTs are being used to
provide farmers with information as regards their plants and animals, which will eventually
improve their productivity (Wilson, 2018).
According to Nicholas (2011) digital or electronic reference services may be divided into two
main categories – asynchronous or delayed, and synchronous or real-time service.
Asynchronous services include services such as web-based email, web form service, 'ask-a'
service, and online pathfinders. These services share a number of similarities and
disadvantages. Although they are easy to use, convenient and cheaper to implement, they are
often criticized for their lack of interactivity and immediacy. The possibility of librarians
conducting reference is either limited or non-existent. The other category of service,
synchronous, is described as real-time communication between librarian and the patrons over
the internet. The methods used to provide this type of service include chat and instant
messaging (IM), realtime live web chat reference using web-based contact software.
Limited Financial Resources: The acquisition and maintenance of the relevant equipment
depends on the availability of fund. Mostly, there is paucity of funds in many libraries in
Nigeria thereby, leading to inability to acquire, the necessary ICTs that would enable them
connect to the internet, make subscription to various online database and obtain software
licenses (Nicholas, 2011).
Shortage of ICT Facilities and ICT Skills: The computers are used to receive and store large
volumes of information. Likewise, the internet accessibility is made possible through the use
of computer; they are used to access Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) and also to
perform many other routine activities in the library. Shortage of computers and other facilities
remains a big challenge to many libraries. Many librarians also lack the ICT skills and this
makes it difficult for them to embrace technological innovations. Lack of ICT skills places a
serious restriction on the application of ICT to provision of library services (Nicholas, 2011).
Lack of ICT Policies: There is lack of systematic ICT policy in developing countries and it
impedes the deployment of ICTs, Most African countries do not have workable ICT policies
which are to act as guideline for implementation of development plans and strategies. When
ICT policies are not available or adequately implemented, it can affect the sustainability of a
Library development (Wilson, 2018).
Poor maintenance of ICT Equipment: According to Tedd, (2003) state that, many libraries
do not have space and helpful environments for keeping ICT equipment. In addition, most of
the ICT equipment is not adequately maintained in most libraries as a result of the
maintenance cost which is usually very high. Also, as a result of lack of maintenance culture.
The introduction and use of ICTs in libraries has not made the situation any better. Money is
required to maintain and upgrade the equipment and software, pay software license fees, pay
for access to electronic journals and online databases, pay for internet connections.
Maintenance cultures is absence in our country one thing is to install something and another
thing is to maintain them as most people believe that government property is no body‟s
property (Wilson, 2018).
Computer Virus; According to Raji, S.K. (2018) argue that, computer virus is a malicious
piece of computer code designed to spread from device to device. A subset of malware, these
self-copying threats is usually designed to damage a device or steal data. Even less harmful
computer viruses can significantly disrupt your system‟s performance, sapping computer
memory and causing frequent computer crashes Viruses can be spread several ways, including
via networks, discs, email attachments or external storage devices like USB sticks. Since
connections between devices were once far more limited than today, early computer viruses
were commonly spread through infected floppy disks. Today, links between internet-enabled
devices are for common, providing ample opportunities for viruses to spread infected email
attachments are the most common means of circulating computer viruses. Note that
unprotected computer is like an open door for computer viruses
Erratic Power Supply: In developing countries, large areas are still without a reliable supply
of electricity, so when library it does not has electricity power, it leading failure to provide
services and customer service because this system relies more on the presence of electrical
power, in the event that electricity is not available or not available, then also until services are
lacking (Wilson, 2018).
2.5 Solution of the challenges of using ICT on improving reference services in the
Library
Availability of electronic power supply; the one of the highest challenges in library when
library used ICT on provision of services to library users because ICT based or depends on
electronic power, without electronic power it leads to failure provision of service by using
ICT facilities. In library management should make sure that in library environment issue of
electricity power is available in all time when services are offered to the library users. And
library must use automatic generator tools as a backup or replacement of electronic power
sources in order to make sure electronic power is available in all time (Wilson, 2018).
Availability of Internet; The Internet is a tool that connects millions of computers together,
allowing them to communicate with each other. Information is not "stored" on the Internet.
Rather, information is stored on host computers; the Internet is simply a tool that allows you
to access the information stored on someone else‟s computer. The Internet carries an extensive
range of information resources and services, such as the inter-linked hypertext documents and
applications of the World Wide Web (WWW), the infrastructure to support email, and peer-
to-peer networks for file sharing and telephony.
The Internet is the gateway for libraries and information centers to enter the electronic
information era and is providing It provides access to the most diversified source of
information hosted by individuals and various organizations worldwide on a vast network of
servers. information generated by different organizations, institutes research centers and
individuals all over the world. Some resources available on the Internet include
electronic books, electronic journals and dictionaries.
Installation of strong antivirus; According to Raji, S.K. (2018) argue that, antiviruses have
made great progress in being able to identify and prevent the spread of computer viruses.
When a device does become infected, though, installing an antivirus solution is still your best
bet for removing it. Once installed, most software will conduct a “scan” for the malicious
program. Once located, the antivirus will present options for its removal. If this is not
something that can be done automatically, some security vendors offer a technician‟s
assistance in removing the virus free of charge
Antivirus Software is a data security utility which is installed in a computer system with a
purpose of protection from viruses, spyware, malware, rootkits, Trojans, phishing attacks,
spam attack, and other online cyber threats. A system without an antivirus is just like a house
with an open door. An open and unprotected door will attract all the intruders and burglars
into your home. Similarly, an unprotected computer will end up inviting all the viruses to the
system. An antivirus will act as a closed door with a security guard for your computer fending
off all the malicious intruding viruses (Raji, S.K. 2018).
Through maintenance it helps to prevent data loss, although data loss is uncommon, if it does
happened, it can cause confusion on your life. When your computer starts running slowly or
begins having occasional interruptions, it can require a system reboot that can ultimately
result in lost data. However, keeping your computer maintained will reduce the possibility of
these instances and keep your data safe and secure for when you need to access it.
Availability of ICT resources; Availability of ICT resources is one of the main factors for
ICT integration in library services. Examples of this ICT resources are desktops, projectors
and photocopiers. If these resources are not available in library, it can prevent effective use of
ICT in library environment such as reference section. Availability of ICT revealed that even
though favorable conditions were set, ICT integration was limited to a few specific resources
like computer, scanner, network and projector (Ukachi, N. 2008).
ICT skills, in a library on of the problem which facing library management when library need
to use ICT on provision of services to the clients, most of librarian are not qualified on issue
of using ICT facility to operate the services. So library management should ensure that,
numbers of librarian which have knowledge and skills of using ICT facilities to perform all
library activities is increased. And to make sure that library it must have professional IT
personnel who provide assistance to the librarian in all matter of ICT issue in library
(Nicholas, 2011).
Availability of enough budgets; A budget is a guide or directive for fiscal management.
Libraries need funds for services, and these services must be budgeted. For this to happen,
ICT services must be up-to-date in skills, equipment, and technology. Budgeting is most
necessary in an emerging ICT environment. The cost of ICT hardware and software is also
very high (Raji, S.K. 2018).
Spending of the budget should be carefully planned for the whole year and be related to the
policy framework. Annual reports should throw light on how the library budget has been used
and clarify whether the amount of money spent on the library has been enough to cover its
tasks
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 Introduction
This chapter presents the research design, approach and methods that will be used in the
process of data collection and analysis. Generally, it covers aspect of research design,
selection of the study area, study population, sampling procedure, simple size, data collection
methods, research instrument, data quality control, data presentation and analysis and also
ethical issues.
To select sample units at random to minimize the risk of introducing biases into the sample or
to select sample systematically to ensure that sample unit are well distributed throughout the
population (Kumari 2002). Through simple random technique, Librarian and library user will
be selected randomly.
Advantage of questionnaires
Questionnaires are response are gathered in a standard way, questionnaires are more objective,
certainly more so than interview. Generally, it is relatively quick to collect information using
questionnaires. However, in some situation can be take a long time not only to design but also
to apply and analyzed. Potentially information can be collected from large portion of a group.
This potentially is not often realized as returns rates can be dramatically improved if the
questionnaires are delivered and responded in class time (Kothari 2004).
The research will ensure that the information provided by the respondents not exposed to
anyone to ensure that respondent remains safe and only used for research purpose and not
subject to leakage into other objectives this will help the research to get sufficient information
from the respondents.
REFERENCES
Adebayo, O. (2009). Quality Reference Service: The Fulcrum for Users’ satisfaction. In Current
Trends in Library and Information Science. Ago-Iwoye : Olabisi Onabanjo University
Library.
Aina, L.O. (2002). African Journal of library, Archives and information science as a Resource
Barman, B. (2011). Computer Applications in Library: Course Material for Diploma in Library
and Information Science. Guwahati: Krishna Kanta Handiqui State Open University.
Chissenga, J. (2014). ICT in libraries: An overview and general introduction to ICT in libraries
in Africa. A paper presented at INASP ICT workshop held at Johannesburg, SouthAfrica.
Igwe, K.N. (2011). Issues in the automation of libraries and information centres. In R.A. JImoh
& K.N. Igwe (Eds.) Information and Communication Technology (ICT) systems for
library services
Igwe, K.N. and Uzuegbu, C.P. (2013). Provision of library and information services to users in
the era of globalization.
Kay Ann assell, . H. (2019). Reference and Information Services: An Introduction, Fourth
Edition. Chikago: American Library Association.
Kothari C, R (2004). Research Methodology revised 2nd Ed. London; Peasant Publication
Leedy, P. (2001). Practical research; planning and design. 6th Ed. New Jersey, Prentice Hall
Malik, A. and Mahmood, K. (2014). Readiness for digital reference service (DRS) in university
libraries: a survey in the Punjab, Pakistan. Information Development
Mishra, L., & Mishra, J. (2014). ICT resources and services in university libraries. International
Journal of Digital Library Services.
Muneja P (2010). A Reflection of Tanzanian Libraries in the Digital Age: Challenges and
Prospects: Dar es salaam
Nicholas, P. (2011). Creating a digital reference agenda for academic libraries in Jamaica: An
exploratory case study
Nwabueze, A.U., & Ozioko, R.E. (2011). Information and communication technology for
sustainable development in Nigeria. Library Philosophy and Practice.
Olise, F.P. (2010). Information and communication technologies (ICTs) and sustainable
development in Africa:
Raji, S.K. (2018). The role of ICT as a panacea for national development
Preparation of
synopsis and
presentation
Preparation of
research
proposal,
presentation
and submission
Reporting at the
Centre where
the research is
conducted
Preparation of
questionnaires
and interview
and distributing
to respondents
Collection of
the data for the
field through
questionnaires
and interview
and analyzes
the data
Preparation of
report summary
,conclusion and
submission of
research report
APPENDIX II
BUDGET
S/N DETAILS COST TOTAL
2 Report preparation
1 CD 5000 5000/=
3 Stationary cost
4 Research Expenditure
TOTAL 200,400/=
APPENDIX III
QUESTIONNAIRE FOR LIBRARIAN
Dear respondent
Your participation is highly appreciated. Please follow instruction of each question before
answering it.
6) What ICT resources would you use in this library on provision of reference service to
library user?
a) Computer ( )
b) Scanner ( )
c) Printer ( )
d) Photocopy Machine ( )
e) Internet ( )
……………………………………………………………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………….
7) What are the challenges do you face when you use ICT on provision of reference services?
(a) Erratic Power Supply ( )
(b) Limited Financial Resources ( )
(c) Poor maintenance of ICT Equipment ( )
(d) Shortage of ICT Facilities and ICT Skills ( )
(e) Lack of ICT Policies ( )
(f) Computer Virus ( )
(g) Copyright management ( )
……………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………..
Your participation is highly appreciated. Please follow instruction of each question before
4) Did you use ICT in this library when seeking services on reference services?
a) Yes
b) No ( )
If not, justify ……………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………….
5) What ICT resources would you use when accessing services on reference services?
a) Computer ( )
b) Scanner ( )
c) Printer ( )
d) Photocopy Machine ( )
e) Internet ( )
……………………………………………………………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………….
6) What are the challenges do you face when you use ICT on accessing reference services?
a) Erratic Power Supply ( )
b) Poor maintenance of ICT Equipment ( )
c) Shortage of ICT Facilities and ICT Skills ( )
d) Computer Virus ( )
e) Copyright issue ( )
……………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………..
7) What do you think can be the solution of those challenges?
a) Availability of enough budgets ( )
b) Availability of ICT resources ( )
c) ICT skills ( )
d) Availability of ICT equipment maintenance ( )
e) Installation of strong antivirus ( )
f) Availability of electronic power supply ( )
g) Availability of Internet