This study assessed the level of information and communications technology use in polytechnic libraries in Ghana. The study used the survey method and questionnaire as the data collection instrument from five polytechnic institutions in Ghana. The study revealed that the Polytechnic Libraries use one form of ICTs or the other. Also, some of the libraries provide ICT-based services. The challenge of funding, lack of ICT infrastructure, low bandwidth as well as misunderstanding between library staff and ICT department were identified. It was recommended that an ICT policy for the libraries to guide them in the acquisition and use of ICTS in their libraries be developed. Also, librarians in the Polytechnic Libraries should be trained in various technological applications and trends in information service and delivery to enhance the services they provide. Finally, the Polytechnic leadership must prioritize the acquisition and use of ICTs in their libraries and make budgetary allocation that could support that drive.

 

Published In : IJCSN Journal Volume 3, Issue 1

Date of Publication : 01 February 2014

Pages : 137 - 142

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Publication Link : IJCSN-2014/3-1/Adoption-of-Information-and-Communications-Technology-in-Polytechnic-Libraries

 

 

 

Jeffrey Mingle : hold Masters of Arts Degree in Library Studies and Bachelor Arts in Information Studies from the University of Ghana, Legon in 2007 and 2011 respectively. He has a rich experience in Librarianship, Research and Computing. Also, the author of “Web Search: A Simple Manual to Online Searching”. His research interests are in ICT applications in libraries, computing, electronic resources, and research for development. He is also a member of the Ghana Library Association. Jeffrey Mingle is currently the Assistant Librarian at the Accra Polytechnic, Accra; Ghana.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Polytechnics

Libraries

Information and Communications Technology

Policy

The data for the study has revealed that only few Information and Communications Technologies are been used in some of the Polytechnic Libraries. According to Okon et al (2005) the recent advances in ICTs have strengthened further the link between knowledge and broad based development and the “knowledge revolution” provides an opportunity to foster access to basic library services and improved education outcomes. Polytechnic Libraries must therefore take advantage of technological advancement and changes to provide high-end technology oriented services to its patrons and users. The use of these technologies will not only improve the services provided by the library but also open the polytechnic libraries to the outside world for information sharing and delivery.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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