Digital Commons Network^™

Assessing Awareness And Use Of Artificial Intelligence Tools Among Library Personnel In Public And Private Institutions In Ekiti State, Nigeria, Thomas Aanu Ojo

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

Artificial Intelligence is a technology integrated into libraries as a tool to help eliminate tedious and repetitive tasks. However, its awareness and use in libraries are still in the early stages. Therefore, this study investigated the awareness and use of AI tools among library personnel in public and private institutions in Ekiti State, Nigeria. The study population comprised 107 library personnel in Ekiti State. The questionnaire was used to elicit data. Descriptive statistics of frequency count, percentage, mean and standard deviation were used to analyse the data. The findings revealed that the level of awareness of AI tools among library …

An Assessment Of Record-Keeping Practices And Their Role In Effective Administration In Primary And Secondary Schools In Chibombo District, Zambia., Kadeyo Mutale Kuyela Dr, Maureen Nzala Haambiya Mrs, Sututu Imasiku Ms, Glenda Ntalasha Mrs, Dalitso Mvula Mr

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

The study assessed record-keeping practices and their role in effective administration in primary and secondary schools in Chibombo District, Zambia, guided by four objectives: identifying types of records, assessing their role in administrative efficiency, recognising challenges in record management, and exploring strategies for improvement. The study employed a qualitative case study approach, and the target population involved headteachers, senior teachers, and class teachers, and the sample size had 30 participants to ensure diverse insights. Data collection was done using an interview guide for effective responses, with thematic content analysis applied to the qualitative data to identify key themes and subthemes. …

The Self-Taught Generation: Here’S How Libraries Can Unlock Youth Employment, Jackline Estomihi Kiwelu

Libraries

No Abstract

Records Management For Improving Service Delivery In Local Government Authorities In Tanzania, Grace Msiga Gm, Grace Msiga Gm, Grace Msiga Gm

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

The study examined the role of records management in improving service delivery in Local Government Authorities (LGAs) in Tanzania. Specifically, it aimed to explore the state of records management practices within Local Government Authorities (LGAs), to assess the link between records management and service delivery in Local Government Authorities (LGAs), and identify possible barriers in records management that prevent Local Government Authorities (LGAs) from achieving better service delivery. A survey or census sampling method was used to select 240 respondents from a population consisting of 168 Action Officers (AOs), 60 records management staff (RMS), and 12 key informants. The study …

Ramifications Of Not Digitalising Registries And Records Centres In Civil Service In Zambia, Glenda Ntalasha, Tuesday Bwalya, Chrispin Hamooya, Sututu Imasiku, Kadeyo Mutale Kuyela, Dalitso Mvula, Matilda Mercy Muchinga

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

Digitalisation of records management among other things, improves access to records and results in efficiency and effectiveness in the functions of an organisation. Because of the potential benefits of digitalisation, several governments globally have automated registries and records centres. However, governments in the Global South, Zambia inclusive have not digitalised the records sub sector. This study investigated the consequences of not digitalising registries and records centres in public service in Zambia. A survey research design was used combining both quantitative and qualitative research techniques. Data was collected from a sample 118 respondents and key informants. Qualitative data was collected through …

How Can Librarians In Developing Countries Apply Evidence-Based Information Practices To Enhance Library Services In The Digital Era? A Scoping Review, Jackline Estomihi Kiwelu, Martha Lyaka, Patrick Ngulube

Libraries

This scoping review maps existing literature on how librarians in developing countries apply evidence-based information practice (EBIP), identifying key themes and evidence gaps for future research. The review followed Arksey and O’Malley’s five-stage framework and applied the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 checklist alongside the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme for appraising study quality. From 6,693 records retrieved, ten studies met the inclusion criteria. The mapped studies suggest that librarians apply EBIP in diverse professional activities such as collection development, advocacy, reference services, information literacy instruction, decision-making, evaluation, monitoring performance, and enhancing service quality. Evidence-based approaches were …

Mentorship Practices And Perceptions Of Nursing Faculty At The Aga Khan University In Uganda: A Qualitative Study, Mary Namuguzi, Sarah Nakaziba, Shamim Namukasa, Carolyne Namukwaya, Dinah Kassaman, Arnold Mwanzu, Jackline Estomihi Kiwelu, Duncan Osuka, Nazahed Mkiramweni, Ahmed Sarki

School of Nursing & Midwifery, East Africa

Background Mentorship of new faculty helps to reduce the challenges associated with their new roles, as some lack knowledge of teaching pedagogies. This study assessed the mentorship experiences regarding practices and perceptions of new nursing and midwifery faculty at the Aga Khan University School of Nursing and Midwifery (SONAM) in Uganda.

Methodology This study used a phenomenological design. Data were collected in semistructured interviews with 11 participants, and data saturation was reached. Data were organized with NVivo 12 Pro and analyzed using framework analysis.

Findings The main themes that emerged were mentorship practices, perceptions about mentorship, and proposed mentorship guidelines. …

Leveraging Research-Based Knowledge Translation Via Rural Libraries To Improve Maize Postharvest Practices In Uganda, Jackline Estomihi Kiwelu, Patrick Ngulube

Libraries

Background: Rural community libraries are increasingly recognised for providing localised knowledge, yet their potential to support agricultural extension services and improve access to postharvest knowledge in Uganda remains underexplored.
Objectives: This study examined the postharvest information needs of smallholder maize farmers and explored how community libraries can be leveraged to translate and repackage research-based knowledge to meet these needs.
Method: A mixed-methods parallel design was employed. Data were collected from a survey of 312 maize farmers, personal interviews and two focus group discussions (FGDs) with 22 extension workers and four librarians. Desk research was conducted to analyse relevant documents. Quantitative …

The Role Of Community Libraries In Repackaging Scientifically Researched Information For Rural Farming Communities: A Review, Jackline Estomihi Kiwelu, Patrick Ngulube

Libraries

Objective

Scientifically researched information is often found in journal articles, book chapters, and conference papers, which can be technical and challenging for those without training. Repackaging information into a simpler and preferred language can make it easier for undereducated rural communities to access. This narrative review investigates the strategies community libraries can adopt to repackage scientifically researched information for easier access by rural farming communities. This study contributes to the literature gap on research-based information repackaging by community libraries for rural development.

Methods

The literature search for this narrative review was conducted across several databases, evidence Based Library and Information …

Investigating The Relationship Between Noun Classes And Plant Folk Taxonomy In Chasu Language Of Kilimanjaro Region In Tanzania, Peter Rabson Mziray

Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences

The current study investigates the relationship between noun classes and plant folk taxonomy in Chasu (G 22). The study focuses on two objectives: the first objective is to describe the plant folk taxonomy in Chasu and the second objective is to determine the relationship between noun classes and plant folk taxonomy in Chasu. Data were collected from rural villages in Same and Mwanga districts by using free listing, field interviews (jungle-walk-and-identify), and written texts containing Chasu plant names. The findings reveal that Chasu folk taxonomy reflects different ethnobotanical categories; including a unique beginner which is mmea/mimea ‘plant(s)’, and three life …

Empowering Rural Smallholder Farmers: Access To Maize Postharvest Handling Information For Sustainable Food Security In Uganda, Jackline Estomihi Kiwelu, Patrick Ngulube

Libraries

This paper presents a model for improving access to scientifically researched information on maize postharvest handling among rural smallholder farmers in Uganda. The model was developed from a study that examined the influence of evidence-based information practices (EBIPs) on farmers’ ability to access and use such information effectively. A convergent mixed-methods design was employed, combining both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data were collected through interviews with 22 agricultural extension officers, four information officers, and 312 rural smallholder farmers, as well as focus group discussions and analysis of relevant government documents. The study found that access to verified information was intermittent. …

Can Tanzanian Neurosurgeons Access Tanzanian Neurosurgical Literature? A Systematic Review And Survey Of Neurosurgical Publications, Sabas Romani R, Woodfield Julie, Ikwuegbuenyi Chibuikem Anthony, Cadieux Magalie, Shayo Consolata, Shabhay Zarina, Rabiel Happiness, Beverly Cheserem, Bwemelo Joel, Wright Drew N

General Surgery, East Africa

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Free and open access to research data and findings promotes equity in access to healthcare knowledge and equity in patient care and treatment. To benefit the health care of the population studied, research findings must be accessible to clinicians, academics, and policymakers serving those populations. The aim of this study was to assess the extent of published Tanzanian neurosurgical data and its accessibility to those practicing within the country.

METHODS: A systematic review of all published neurosurgical studies from Tanzania was conducted. Authorship, funding, and open-access status were recorded. Tanzanian neurosurgeons were surveyed by telephone …

Promotional Techniques For Marketing Academic Library Product And Services, Fisayo Adesola Adekunle Mr., Bright Ajayi Mr.

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

Abstract

This paper clarifies the marketing techniques used to promote the product and services offered by academic libraries. Users are kept informed about the information resources accessible at the library by marketing of the services and information resources offered by the library. Library-produced materials such as reading lists, bibliographies, flyers, brochures, library e-mail, websites, posters, and other materials; special programs and events such as library orientation, workshops, and seminars; and social media platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, and blogs are some of the promotional techniques used in marketing library resources. Marketing library product and services improves user perception of the …

Perceived Flexibility And Benefits As Determinants Of Cloud Computing Adoption By Academic Libraries In South-West, Nigeria, Adeniyi Isaiah Kayode, Sunday Adebisi Oguntayo Dr.

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

Abstract

Goal: This study has examined perceived flexibility and benefits as determinants of cloud computing adoption by academic libraries in South-West, Nigeria

Methodology: This study used interviews for gathered data in a strictly qualitative manner. The system librarians in South-West Nigerian university libraries were the intended audience. Twenty (20) system librarians employed in the ICT department of nine (9) university libraries in South-West Nigeria made up the sample. There were five research questions formulated and answered.

Findings/Results: System librarians acknowledge the benefits of cloud computing adoption in academic libraries. To overcome these challenges, meticulous strategic planning is required

Strategies For Enhancing The Ability Of Rural Farmers To Deal With Challenges Of Climate Change Through Adult Education Programme In South East, Nigeria, Abaobi David Agbo Dr., Ngozi Justina Igwe Dr., Onyinye Regina Ekere, Stella C. Nwizu Prof.

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

Agriculture has become the main stay of the economy of developing countries in the world especially south-east, Nigeria. Rural farmers in South-east, Nigeria have suffered significant losses due to extreme weather events and natural disasters attributed to climate change such as severe flooding, drought, decease and pest attack etc. The responses and reactions of rural farmers to these extreme weather events and natural disasters has suggested that there is a lack knowledge of climate change. This study therefore is aimed at developing strategies that could help enhance the ability of rural farmers to cope and deal with the effects of …

Predicting Crises On The African Frontier Stock Markets With Investor Sentiment Indicators: A Machine Learning Approach, David Korsah, Lord Mensah

Journal of International Technology and Information Management

This study examined the predictive ability of machine learning algorithms in identifying crises within African stock markets. The study employed seven distinct machine-learning models, analyzing historical stock prices from eight stock markets, three major sentiment indicators, and the exchange rates of local currencies against the US dollar, with each data spanning from May 1, 2007, to April 1, 2023. Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) emerged as the most effective algorithm for predicting crises. Historical stock prices and exchange rates were identified as the most critical features for prediction. On the sentiment side, investors’ perceptions of potential volatility on the S&P 500, …

Aku Libraries Annual Report - 2025, Office Of The University Librarian

Office of the University Librarian Reports

- Message by Peter Gatiti Associate Vice Provost & University Librarian

- The Beautiful Nakawa Campus Library

- AKU Author’s Day 2025

- Celebrating 5 Years of AKU Author’s Day: Bold Voices, Powerful Stories, Lasting Impact.

- A Student’s Journey into Co-Authoring Neuroscience

- My Fear of Academic Writing

- University Library Strategic Plan 2024-2029

- Lecture Series on Open Science

- Behind the Scenes

- Our Libraries & Students

- Book Conversations…

- RFID Technology at AKU Libraries

- Video Editing: Where Vision Meets Creativity

- Preserving Today for Tomorrow

- “Our Collections Matter”

- The FMIC Library

- …

Librarians' Use Of Social Media For Marketing Library Services And Resources In University Libraries In Delta And Edo States, Monday Obaidjevwe Ogbomo, Angela O. Bello

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

This study explored how librarians in Delta and Edo University libraries used social media to promote their services and resources. The study's population consisted of 127 librarians from federal, state, and private university libraries in the Delta and Edo states. The entire enumeration sample approach was used in the investigation. The data were examined with simple percentages, descriptive statistics, and inferential statistics (the mean was set at 2.50). The study discovered that university librarians in Delta and Edo States use various marketing approaches to promote their services and resources, including social media, library webpages, one-on-one interactions with users, phone calls, …

Utilization Of Electronic Resources For Effective Library Services In The 21st Century, Stanley Efe Okolo

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

This paper focuses on the utilization of electronic resources for effective library services in the 21^st century. The research paper treated among others, the concept of electronic database, and the various types of databases that are available in the educational system. It also treated the application of electronic resources or databases in rendering effective library services, factors that must be in place in order for electronic databases to be used for library services which includes: library Automation, library Management, library Networking, Audio-visual Technology and technical Communication. The paper outlined some challenges as enshrined by scholars in the field of …

Navigating The Virtual Realm: Unveiling The Crucial Role Of Libraries In Open Distance Learning, Abraham Christopher

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

This study explores the critical role that libraries play in the field of open distance learning, especially in light of the way that e-learning technologies are changing educational environments. By examining the difficulties, advantages, and tactics related to library assistance in distance learning, the research highlights the vital connection between libraries, technology, and open distance learning. The study highlights the importance of libraries in providing remote learners with fair access to knowledge. It also emphasises the need to use technology to improve educational outcomes in the virtual environment and fortify library services.

Combating Terrorism To Promote National Security In Nigeria: Libraries And Information Centres To The Rescue, Udemezue Joseph Ogugua, Jovita Amarachi Ikeagwuani Mrs

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

Terrorism is a hydra-headed monster and should be stamped out for the benefit of humanity. Fighting terrorism to enthrone national security should be at the front burner of government stakeholders especially this time that non-state actors operate with impunity. The paper discusses the role of libraries and information centres in combating terrorism and promoting national security in Nigeria. Specifically, the paper examines terrorism and national security, terrorism in Nigeria, the role of libraries and information centres in the fight against terrorism to promote national security. It also looks at the challenges encountered by libraries and information centres in the fight …

The Implementation Of Research Findings For Lis Professional Practices In Selected Academic Libraries In Sub-Saharan Africa, Jackline Estomihi Kiwelu, Justina E. Ogbonna, Gadiel Ketto

Book Chapters / Conference Papers

Implementing research findings influences professional growth, provides evidence, and improves practice. Time and money go to waste if research findings are not adequately used. This study was set to understand how LIS Masters and PhDs research findings influence professional practices in academic libraries. The qualitative study used an online semi-structured interview to collect data from twelve (12) selected academic libraries in the Sub Sahara, Africa. Data was analysed thematically. The participants of this study attest that research findings from Master’s and PhD students are integrated into activities and provide evidence for decision-making. However, no precise mechanism supported the implementation of …

Aku Libraries Annual Report - 2024, Office Of The University Librarian

Office of the University Librarian Reports

- Message by Peter Gatiti Associate Vice Provost & University Librarian

- Celebrating AKU Scholars

- AKU Author’s Day – 2024

- ISMC – London UK Writing People's Histories

- Author’s Day – Other events in Karachi

- Psychoanalytic Sociology: A New Theory of the Social Bond

- Secret Santa Book Exchange!

- IED’s Baatein Kitab Ki – In conversation with Senator (r) Javed Jabbar

- Conversation with Dr. Iftikhar Salahuddin

- Recent Best Practices in Publishing

- Library news from around our Campuses

- RFID Technology in AKU Libraries

- Information Literacy

- Conferences & Workshops

- Book Launches …

Perceived Effect Of Awareness And Use Of Open Access Journals By Library Users For Research Efficiency In Margaret Lawrence University, Delta State, Nigeria, Obande Bonnie Obeka

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

The purpose of the present study was to examine the Perceived effect of awareness and use of Open Access Journals by Library users for research efficiency in Margaret Lawrence University. Three hundred and twenty nine Library (329) users were selected in the study. A specifically designed questionnaire was administered to gather information about the awareness and use of open access journals by library users for research efficiency in Margaret Lawrence University. Data collected were analyzed using mean () and standard deviation (SD) to answer research questions. The Results revealed that library users of MLU are much aware of open access …

Enhancing Public Library Services: A Future Outlook On Digital Libraries In Pakistan, Muhammad Sohail Haider, Chen Ya Prof, Md. Nurul Islam, Muhammad Danyal, Muhammad Hussain

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

Objective: Governments consistently aim to enhance services and establish online connections to efficiently deliver necessary information. This study aims to evaluate the future potential of digital libraries in public libraries in Pakistan by examining various projects that have introduced innovative approaches to foster the development of digital library services.

Methodology: The analysis utilized the Amos 24 version, employing the Structural Equation Model (SEM) for assessing model fit indices and validating hypotheses. Additionally, Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24 was employed for Pearson correlation and factor analysis.

Findings: The results suggest the appropriateness of discussing three out of the …

The Role Of Information And Communication Technology In Sustainable Development: The Input Of Nigerian Academic Libraries, Jerry Eyerinmene Friday Mr, Favour Oghenevwarodovwe Oweibo Mrs

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

The main objective of this paper was to examine the role of information and communication technology (ICT) in sustainable development in Nigeria. The paper further intended to explore the contributions of Nigerian academic libraries towards providing ICT services to promote quality education as well as sustainable development in Nigeria. In accomplishing its aim, the paper reviewed the concept of ICT, academic library, sustainable development, objectives of ICT for sustainable development, ICT facilities used in academic libraries, uses of ICT in education, potentials of ICT in promoting quality education, digital information services of Nigeria academic libraries geared towards achievement of sustainable …

Exploring The Provision Of Information Services For Visually Impaired Students: Lessons Learned From The University Of Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, Dotto Kabogolo,, Christian Mubofu

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

This study employed a descriptive research method to investigate the provision of information services for visually impaired students (VIS) at the University of Dar es Salaam. The research conducted a comprehensive examination by employing a census sampling technique, targeting a population of 25 VIS. Qualitative methodologies were utilized to collect data, with thematic analysis serving as the means to categorize and describe the gathered information. The study's findings revealed that VIS have specific information needs, notably necessitating orientation programs for university management and the acquisition of effective computer application skills to manage their studies proficiently. Additionally, the study identified commonly …

Impact Of E-Resources In Promoting Reading Habits: A Study Among The Central Library Users Of University Of Rajshahi, Bangladesh, Dr. Partha Biplob Roy, Susmita Tarofder Misty, Zihadur Rahman, Dil Afroz Bente Aziz

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

The widespread adoption of electronic resources, particularly in the realm of reading books, has transformed the landscape of academic libraries across the globe. This study explores the impact of e-resources on the reading habits and preferences of Central Library users at the University of Rajshahi. By analyzing the attitudes and experiences of students, faculty, and researchers, this research sheds light on the significance of e-resources in modern-day learning environments. The core purposes of the study are to investigate the trend and impact of using electronic resources, to explore the reasons, to know the benefits of using e-resources by the students. …

Ict's Potential For Improving Information Resource Sharing Among Tanzania’S Academic Libraries, Christian Mubofu, Salatiel Chaula

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

This study examined at how ICT could improve resource sharing amongst academic libraries in Tanzania. The assessment was conducted in the MUHAS, UDSM, OUT, and TUDARCO libraries—all of which are COTUL members and take part in the system of resource sharing. A quantitative research strategy was used, and questionnaires were used to gather data. SPSS Version 20 was used to analyze the data using descriptive statistics. Participants thought the library's ICT infrastructure was insufficient for resource sharing, according to the study's findings. A paucity of computers, which are necessary for sharing, was also discovered. Respondents acknowledged the significance that ICT …

Access To Health Information Among Pregnant Women In Morogoro Municipal, Tanzania, Ronald Benard Dr.

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

he purpose of this study was to assess the accessibility of health information among pregnant women in Morogoro Municipality in Tanzania. This study was conducted in four main health stations (hospitals) which were selected purposively. This cross-sectional study involved 80 pregnant women who were randomly selected. Data were obtained by using questionnaires. Results showed that pregnant women in the study area expressed various information needs, categories of most needed health information were: information on miscarriage, information on immunization, and information on breast feeding. Moreover, results revealed that information on delivery and family planning were highly accessible. Moreover, the study results …