Journal of Information and Technology

Collaborative Efforts with External Organizations done by ICIPE and ILRI Libraries to Enhance Big Data Management

Evangeline Koli Shinali — 2024-09-09

Purpose: The rapid advancement of network technologies has resulted in an overwhelming influx of data, presenting significant challenges for research libraries in effectively managing this data to meet modern research needs. the current study aims to bridge the existing gap by assessing the collaborative initiatives put in place by ICIPE and ILRI research libraries to enhance big data management capabilities. The research objective was to evaluate how these partnerships contribute to the development and implementation of advanced data management systems.

Methodology: The study was guided by Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) which played a significant role in facilitating collaboration in libraries by providing a framework to understand user acceptance of new technologies. The study was conducted at the ICIPE and ILRI institutions, employing a descriptive research design. The target population included key stakeholders such as department heads, librarians, and graduate students. A sample size of 154 individuals was selected, including 13 department heads, 4 librarians, and 137 graduate students (58 PhD candidates and 79 MSc candidates). Sampling techniques included purposive sampling for department heads and stratified random sampling for scholars. Data was collected using structured questionnaires, and the validity and reliability of the instruments were ensured through pilot testing. Data analysis involved both quantitative and qualitative methods, using statistical tools to analyze responses.

Results: The study found that collaborative efforts between the libraries are pivotal in pooling resources, knowledge, and expertise, facilitating the integration of cutting-edge technologies like data mining tools, and cloud-based storage solutions.

Conclusions: The collaborative approach adopted by the libraries not only strengthens their capacity to support research activities but also fosters a culture of data-driven decision-making across the institutions. This partnership serves as a model for other research institutions facing similar challenges. The leadership of ICIPE and ILRI continue to invest in infrastructure and joint training programs to further enhance big data management capabilities. Additionally, efforts should be made to address challenges such as the integration of diverse data sources and the protection of sensitive information. The study recommended development of more structured and formalized collaborative frameworks with external organizations, including clear policies and communication channels.

Evaluating the Librarian’s Role in Organizing Knowledge at University Libraries in Nairobi County

Makokha Emily Nasimiyu — 2024-09-09

Purpose: It has long been recognized in several sectors that librarians can enhance the efficacy and operational efficiency of knowledge management. Previous research has primarily relied on cross-sectional data projecting that university libraries still need to acknowledge the worth of the role of librarians in managing knowledge. The problem addressed is the gaps in knowledge organization in university libraries. The study was built on the premise of the Role Theory and the Adaptive Structural Theory, with the objective being to evaluate the librarian’s role in organizing knowledge at university libraries in Nairobi County.

Methodology: This study used the descriptive survey research design targeting 2180 individuals, consisting of librarian section heads and information science students, who were identified across the two institutions. A sample size of 338 respondents was sampled from this population to take part in the research process. The research used two different sampling techniques. The first technique was the simple random sample method used when selecting the students who participated in the study. The second sampling technique was the censor method, which chose the librarians to participate in the study. Data was collected using questionnaires and interview schedules. This comprised 314 students currently enrolled at TUK and UON in the School of Information Science and twelve librarian section heads from each university. The content validity was attained by selecting the questionnaire measuring items from the operational framework. The quantitative data collected was analyzed using version 26 of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Consequently, a frequency distribution was also employed to analyze the quantitative data obtained during the research.

Results: This showed how often each value occurs in a data set, mainly the mean, median, and mode measures of central tendency. The collected results showed that librarians have the most influence on knowledge management at these institutions. These individuals are essentially responsible for enhancing literacy skills among library users.

Conclusions: The research found that librarians at the university libraries in Nairobi County were essential to the organization of knowledge management. To guarantee the best learning outcomes, it was recommended that these librarians must still create classification systems, allow access to information resources, curate collections, and encourage users to be effectively information literate.

Effect of Institutional Digital Repository Information Services on Utilisation of Library Resources by Postgraduate Students at Selected University Libraries in Kenya

Pauline Masaa Kavila — 2024-11-07

Purpose: Every year, Kenya does local studies worth billions of shillings, which are rarely disseminated outside of the institutions' office drawers and library shelves. Therefore, research findings should be shared for advancement right away. Institutional repositories are a significant recent development in the field of research exchange within libraries. Effective utilization of these services is essential for postgraduate students to access relevant resources, expand their knowledge, and complete quality research projects. However, gaps in the use of information services by postgraduate students have been observed, indicating the need for a deeper understanding of their usage patterns, preferences, and challenges. This study examines how postgraduate students in selected Kenyan universities utilise institutional digital repositories to support their academic needs.

Methods: The study was grounded in the Diffusion of Innovation Theory (DIT) focusing on 2,452 individuals - 2,372 postgraduate students and 80 librarians from the University of Embu, Kenya Methodist University, Kirinyaga University, Meru University of Science and Technology, and Chuka University. A random sampling technique was used to select a sample of 493 respondents, including 475 postgraduate students and 18 librarians. Data was collected through self-administered questionnaires for students and interviews with selected librarians to provide both quantitative and qualitative insights. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods, while qualitative data was presented narratively.

Results: Findings revealed that digital repository services (β=0.109, p < 0.05) had significant positive effects on library utilization.

Conclusion: The study concludes that Digital Institutional Repositories (DIRs) are essential in supporting postgraduate students' effective use of library services. It recommends the university management together with the ICT department should ensure the provision of reliable internet connectivity to facilitate the seamless use of digital resources, Initiative for regular training and workshops should be organised by the library administration. To provide librarians with knowledge of digital resources, information services, and efficient user support and service delivery. Additionally, Librarians should create more awareness of DIR functionalities among postgraduate students to maximize their engagement and benefit from these resources.