Browsing by Author "Isibika, I. S."

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Provision of library services for users in wheelchairs at Ardhi university and university of Dar es salaam libraries
(2018-02) Kavishe, G. F.; Isibika, I. S.
This paper investigated the provision of library services for people in wheelchairs in two university libraries in Tanzania. The paper studied access to the information materials collected in the libraries and the building structure of the two university libraries. At a wider aspect the paper looked at significance of access to library information as the basic right, specifically in higher learning institutions. The study used pragmatism paradigm which is a mixed method approach. Statistical package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23 was used to analyze quantitative data while thematic analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. The results revealed that the two academic libraries are not complying with library universal services to users in wheelchairs. The study therefore suggested that the libraries should strive to offer services that are inclusive to all users including those in wheelchairs. It was also recommended that the two libraries should formulate policies that would cover issues on the provision of library services for physically challenged users. In addition, it was suggested that library buildings should be modified to accommodate users with developmental disabilities, particularly, those in wheelchairs to access housed resources.
Utilisation of subscribed electronic resources by library users in Mzumbe university library, Tanzania
(2018) Isibika, I. S.; Kavishe, G. F
Purpose – This study aims to investigate the utilisation of subscribed e-resources at Mzumbe University (MU) main library. The study involved academic staff, undergraduate (third-year) students and postgraduate students of MU. Design/methodology/approach – The study used a mixed-method research design using crosssectional and case study research designs. Both qualitative and quantitative approaches were used. Quantitative data were analysed using statistical package for the social sciences version 20 and Microsoft Excel spreadsheet, and qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis. Findings – The findings revealed that participants were moderately aware of the library-subscribed e-resources, and the major barriers that caused underutilisation were unstable network connectivity and lack of searching skills. It was recommended that MU Library should equip library users with intensive training on information searching skills to increase utilisation of the subscribed e-resources. Furthermore, it was strongly recommended that the library should market its subscribed e-resources to attract more users. Originality/value – Many papers have been written on electronic resources, but this study specifically focussed on subscribed resources, and it is the first time that an investigation has been done on utilisation of subscribed electronic resources by library users in MU. The results of the study could be useful for MU Library and other academic libraries in Africa in ensuring that there is high utilisation of subscribed e-resources.