ICT proficiency : perspectives of Tangaza University College librarians in Kenya

Abstract

PURPOSE : This study aims to assess the information and communications technology (ICT) proficiency of library and information science (LIS) professionals working in Tangaza University College (TUC) Library, Kenya. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH : A qualitative research design using a single case study was adopted in the study, which gathered data through a census. Data were collected using a structured interview. FINDINGS : The study findings indicated that the majority of TUC librarians have very high ICT competence in basic ICT and some Web technologies; however, they lack technical ICT skills. Furthermore, though ICT courses are offered during LIS professional training, TUC librarians lack opportunities to implement some of their advanced ICT skills. Lack of funding, time, practical lessons, personal interest, training opportunities and ICT obsolescence were highlighted as challenges librarians encounter in their pursuit of acquiring ICT skills. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS : The study recommends that regular ICT-related training programmes be conducted for librarians and be offered in the form of workshops, seminars and conferences. Furthermore, there is a need for an academic curriculum in LIS schools to have more practical ICT-related components. Library staff should be encouraged to develop a personal interest in pursuing ICT skills, and librarians should also make use of ICT training opportunities that are freely available online for personal development. ORIGINALITY/VALUE : The study is beneficial to those concerned with developing training programmes for librarians to strengthen areas deemed to have shortcomings.