Implementation of information literacy programmes in public libraries

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to examine the implementation of information literacy programmes in the public libraries in Kenya as demonstrated through a case study of the major public library in the country – Kenya National Library Service (KNLS). Design/methodology/approach The use of a case study research design made it possible to establish in-depth personal views, opinions and attitudes of the various respondents through face-to-face interviews and questionnaires. Both quantitative and qualitative approaches were used to collect data from the respondents. Purposive and random sampling techniques were used, and data were analyzed. Findings Major findings of this study indicated that the majority of users at the KNLS relied heavily on the print information materials, while some users, especially researchers, utilized the Internet for their academic work or research. The findings indicated that information literacy should be embedded in the information literacy programmes in all public libraries. Research limitations/implications The study was confined to the KNLS. A much wider scope could be untenable, necessitating such limitation. Practical implications As KNLS is the national library charged with the responsibility of providing public library services, it is a major player in terms of policies and guidelines. The study will encourage users in public libraries to appreciate the importance of information resources and also sensitize public library administrators to support information literacy programmes. Social implications The study will enable the educational administrators to develop and plan relevant instructional models related to information literacy, critical thinking and independent learning. The challenges and solutions experienced at the KNLS can be applied in other public libraries in Kenya. Originality/value The study identified the various gaps and challenges that exists in implementation of information literacy programmes in public libraries. Major recommendations of this study are: users should be provided with training on use of information resources; library staff should be provided with methodology skills to make them effective trainers; and public libraries should partner with other stakeholders to provide information literacy programmes. In addition, adequate funding for physical, material and human resources should be provided to facilitate the implementation of information literacy programmes in the public libraries in Kenya.

The effect of information literacy instruction on lifelong learning readiness

“…One of a librarian's responsibilities is to encourage library users to achieve information literacy so that they may become lifelong learners (Agee, 2005). In order to achieve this, Kingori et al (2016) and Perry (2014) have identified the need for information literacy instruction in public libraries to foster the lifelong learning of their communities.…”

“…Some of the international studies have investigated information literacy in public libraries (e.g. Harding, 2008;Ireland, 2017;Jacobsen, 2017;Julien and Hoffman, 2008;Kingori et al, 2016;Matteson and Gersch, 2019;Nielsen and Borlund, 2011;Widdowson and Smart, 2013). The results of these studies revealed that some public libraries offered information literacy instruction and the users of these libraries participated in the programmes offered for their information needs.…”

Network Literacy and Utilization of Electronic Resources Among University Students: The Case of Kabarak University, Kenya

“…Despite huge investment and sensitization on usage of electronic resources, instances of inadequate utilization still abound, partly due to lack of relevant adequate skills that can be applied in the networked environment (Waithaka, 2013). This is despite concerted efforts by universities to sensitize every new student on access and use of electronic resources through orientation programmes (Muhia, 2015;Kingori, Njiraine & Maina, 2016). Several studies have delved into issues of internet usage, more so on usage of electronic resources and their relevance to the students often as separate studies and have variously reported their inadequate utilization for academic purposes (Boakye, 2017).…”

Library instruction and information literacy 2016

“…The number of public library publications increased this year. Topics included the importance of information literacy, as expressed in "A Rationale for Public Library Civics Instruction" (Critcher Lyons, 2016) which explains the need for civics instruction in school and public libraries, and "Implementation of Information Literacy Programmes in public libraries" (Kingori et al, 2016) which discusses a study of Kenyan libraries and the need for IL programs. In addition, the book Creating and Promoting Lifelong Learning in Public Libraries: Tools and Tips for Practitioners (Gilton, 2016) also addresses the topic of IL in libraries.…”

“…study are explained, and the article determines that it is important to continue the focus on information literacy given its "misunderstanding" among some students. Kingori, G., Njiraine, D. and Maina, S. (2016), "Implementation of information literacy programmes in public libraries", Library Hi Tech, Vol. 34 No.…”