Constantine Matoke Nyamboga ¹, Raymond Wafula Ongus ¹, Andrew Kimanga Njuguna ²

Affiliations
1 Egerton University Library, P.O. Box 53620115, Egerton, KE
2 Egerton University Library, P.O. Box 536 20115, Egerton, KE

Abstract

The rapid implementation of information technology in all spheres of life, including libraries and information centres, has led to concerns about the paradigm shift in these institutions. This is a case study conducted at Egerton University Library's campus at Njoro, Kenya. A total of fifty three (53) library staff and eight hundred and eighty nine (889) clients constituted the sample size. The sampled library users were stratified as follows: 384 students, 187 academic staff and 318 non-academic i.e. non-teaching staff, respectively. The ensuing data was collected, analyzed and presented using descriptive statistics, in accordance with the objectives formulated. The study focused on the positive changes and subsequent challenges brought about by the introduction and implementation of AMLIB Integrated Library Management System (ILMS) on information management practices in the academic library. Other aspects considered were the involvement staff and patrons in implementation of the system, staff training and attitudes of staff towards the system. Also explained is the influence that the automated system was observed to have, both on staff and patrons, in their day to day transactions. Results show that the system had a significantly greater impact on the overall library operations and on the library's improved image, thereby endearing it to its clients.

Keywords

AMLIB, Integrated Library Management System (ILMS), Information Management, Egerton University Library, Kenya

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Constantine Matoke Nyamboga ¹, Raymond Wafula Ongus ¹, Andrew Kimanga Njuguna ²

Affiliations
1 Egerton University Library, P.O. Box 53620115, Egerton, KE
2 Egerton University Library, P.O. Box 536 20115, Egerton, KE

Abstract

The rapid implementation of information technology in all spheres of life, including libraries and information centres, has led to concerns about the paradigm shift in these institutions. This is a case study conducted at Egerton University Library's campus at Njoro, Kenya. A total of fifty three(53) library staff and eight hundred and eighty nine (889) clients constituted the sample size. The sampled library users were stratified as follows: 384 students, 187 academic staff and 318 non-academic i.e. non-teaching staff, respectively. The ensuing data was collected, analyzed and presented using descriptive statistics, in accordance with the objectives formulated. The study focused on the positive changes and subsequent challenges brought about by the introduction and implementation of AMLIB Integrated Library Management System (ILMS) on information management practices in the academic library. Other aspects considered were the involvement staff and patrons in implementation of the system, staff training and attitudes of staff towards the system. Also explained is the influence that the automated system was observed to have, both on staff and patrons, in their day to day transactions. Results show that the system had a significantly greater impact on the overall library operations and on the library's improved image, thereby endearing it to its clients.

Keywords

AMLIB, Integrated Library Management System (ILMS), Information Management, Egerton University Library, Kenya

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Raymond Wafula Ongus ¹, T. D. Kemparaju ², Constantine Matoke Nyamboga ³, M. Veerabasavaiah ⁴

Affiliations
1 Egerton University Library, PO Box 536, Njoro, (East Africa), KE
2 Department of Library and Information Science, Jnana Bharathi Campus, Bangalore University, Bangalore 560 056, IN
3 Egerton University Library, P. O. Box 536, Njoro, (East Africa), KE
4 Department of Library and Information Science, Jnana Bharathi Campus, Bangalore University, Bangalore 560 056, IN

Abstract

This paper examines digital libraries principally from the management perspective. For the purpose of appreciating the intrinsic concepts involved, it starts with a comprehensive discussion of definitions, followed by basic principles pertaining to digital libraries. Next, it gives a glimpse into a wide-ranging spectrum of reasons as to why digital libraries are mushrooming predominantly in the developed world and in some developing countries as well. Reasons for the management of these types of libraries are also brought into view. Core competencies expected of digital librarians are outlined, in the wake of the new and continuously dynamic technological dispensation. The paper stresses the need for a paradigm shift in information management strategies in as far as digital libraries are concerned. This is considered to be crucial if at all information professionals are to gain maximum mileage in their noble mission of satisfying evolving user needs. Urgent attention ought to be directed towards managing of digital libraries, as a means of enabling contemporary information professionals to assert their unique role in society, not only as information gatekeepers but as information gateways, as well.

Keywords

Digital Libraries Management, Digital Librarians, Information Professionals, Core Competencies.

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Raymond Wafula Ongus ¹, T. D. Kemparaju ¹

Affiliations
1 Department of Library and Information Science, Bangalore University, Jnana Bharathi Campus, Bangalore 560 056, IN

Abstract

Public demand for library services has not only grown enormously but is also becoming more diversified. This is due to the widespread acceptance of libraries as central to education and research, community development and nation building programmes. Libraries are expected to meet this critical challenge by providing adequate and effective services to the public. This paper examines the concept of public libraries in general, as well as the state of public libraries in India in the light of the new and emerging technological dispensation. It proceeds to give a detailed account of recommended steps for introducing and maintaining electronic information services for public use. Some fledgling real cases involving impressive attempts of delivering much needed information services in rural areas, using electronic or “digital” media, are mentioned. Conceivable suggestions for the way forward affecting public libraries are given, wherever applicable.

Keywords

Electronic Information Services, Digital Information Resources, Public Libraries, India.

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Raymond Wafula Ongus ¹, Constantine Matoke Nyamboga ²

Affiliations
1 Department of Library and Inforamtion Science, Bangalore University, Janabharathi, Bangalore 560056, IN
2 Egerton University, Box 536, Njoro, KE

Abstract

Academic libraries have always aimed to fulfill their research objectives and ambitions by using any means at their disposal, particularly in these times when there is shift from traditional library services to digital library services, so long as they can satisfy their clientele. The attempt to provide digital library services is exemplified by the J. D. Rockefeller Research Library at Egerton University, Kenya. This paper discusses digital research libraries, reasons, advantages and disadvantages of digitization. It also provides the development of the research library studied and types of clients who are beneficiaries of the services. It proffers a general overview of both the information resources and services given. Ultimately, it concludes that the essence of the digital research library is to cater for the information needs of researchers in specific fields of specialization.

Keywords

Digitizing, Research Library, Egerton University, Kenya.

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Margaret Makenzi ¹, Raymond Wafula Ongus ², Constantine Matoke Nyamboga ²

Affiliations
1 Egerton University Library, P.O. Box 536, Njoro, KE
2 Egerton University Library, Egerton University Library, P.O. Box 536, Njoro, KE

Abstract

The Reading Tent Project (RTP) was instituted in November 1999 as an outreach programme of the Research and Extension Division at Egerton University in Njoro, Kenya. The project, which is funded by the Rockefeller Foundation, aims at promoting a lifetime reading culture and improving pupils' reading skills. A control group of 1567 pupils currently in classes 4 and 5 from ten selected rural primary schools within Njoro Division was closely monitored for three consecutive years. R.T.P events involved teaching elementary reading skills interspersed with educational games, modelling, drawing and painting. The project supplemented reading activities with introduction to information technology (IT) involving computers with associated accessories, assorted educational CD-ROM "talking books", email and the Internet. Through guided exploratory sessions, improvement in the reading habits of the pupils was manifested. Moreover, through the project, some pupils established electronic links to friends abroad to share scarce educational resources. This paper exemplifies a case that developing countries can use to prepare their young citizens for an information-intensive future, thus bridging the digital divide.

Keywords

Reading Tent Project, Egerton University, Elementary Reading Skills, Information Technology Skills, Computers and Leisure Reading, Rural Primary Schools, Njoro Division, Kenya.

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Raymond Wafula Ongus ¹, Constantine Matoke Nyamboga ²

Affiliations
1 Egerton University, P.O. Box 536, Njoro, KE
2 Department of Languages, Egerton University, KE

Abstract

Stringent economic conditions, coupled with the proliferation of information have incapacitated many agricultural research libraries in developing countries. Traditional means of document delivery have slumped, causing widespread user-dissatisfaction. Consequently, Compact Disc-Read Only Memory (CD-ROM) technology continues to gain preference, especially in Africa, as an electronic means of hastening docu ment access. The Essential Electronic Agricultural Library (TEEAL), employing CD-ROMs, is examined in relation to its potential in promoting agricultural research at Egerton University in Kenya. A critical analysis of pertinent administrative and technical issues is made with envisaged challenges in focus. Ultimately, suitable solutions for sustainability and improvement are proffered.

Keywords

Document Delivery, CD-ROM, Agricultural Research, Developing Countries, Kenya.

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Raymond Wafula Ongus ¹, Nemwel Nyakenyanya Aming’a ², Constantine Matoke Nyamboga ¹, Gilbert Okello ³

Affiliations
1 c/o Millicent Auma Ongus, Egerton University Library, P. O. Box 536 – 20115, Egerton, KE
2 Research Division, Kisii University, P. O. Box 408-40200, Kisii, KE
3 Mount Kenya University, Kigali Campus, P. O. Box 5826, Kigali, RW

Abstract

Knowledge management and knowledge assets have gained much prominence in recent years and are said to improve organizational performance. However, the effects of knowledge management practices on organizational performance are not well known, particularly with respect to the newly established universities in the East African region. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of knowledge management practices on organizational performance at selected campuses of Kisii University in the South-western part of Kenya. The knowledge management practices identified were knowledge capture and acquisition, knowledge sharing, and knowledge management policies and strategies. The study established that knowledge management practices have a strong and positive effect on organizational performance. Hoarding of knowledge by members of staff was the major knowledge management challenge identified. Recommendations and areas for further studies are indicated.

Keywords

Knowledge Management, Organizational Performance, Kisii University, Higher Learning Institutions, Kenya.

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