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Challenges facing information literacy efforts in Kenya: a case study of selected university libraries in Kenya
(MCB UP Ltd, 2003) Kavulya, Joseph M.
The ability to access, evaluate and use information is a prerequisite for lifelong learning, and a basic requirement for the information society. At the university level, students are expected to contact independent exploration in diverse disciplines and topics and therefore, irrespective of their areas of study, they need to use information effectively. They should not only master the skill of finding information in print format or electronic formats, but also be able to evaluate and use it competently both in their study activities as well as in their later lives. This paper examines why the acquisition of these information skills is a matter of necessity and they are a prime factor in quality learning in Kenyan universities. It concludes that although there have been efforts to ensure information literacy among university students, there is need to build on these efforts through collaborative efforts between librarians and faculty members particularly through joint curriculum design and implementation.
Challenges facing information literacy efforts in Kenya: A case study of selected university libraries in Kenya
(Emerald Publishers, 2003) Kavuly, Joseph Muema
The ability to access, evaluate and use information is aprerequisite for lifelong learning, and a basic requirementfor the information society. At the university level,students are expected to contact independent explorationin diverse disciplines and topics and therefore, irrespectiveof their areas of study, they need to use informationeffectively. They should not only master the skill of findinginformation in print format or electronic formats, but alsobe able to evaluate and use it competently both in theirstudy activities as well as in their later lives. This paperexamines why the acquisition of these information skills isa matter of necessity and they are a prime factor in qualitylearning in Kenyan universities. It concludes that althoughthere have been efforts to ensure information literacyamong university students, there is need to build on theseefforts through collaborative efforts between librariansand faculty members particularly through joint curriculumdesign and implementation.
Marketing of library services: A case study of selected university libraries in Kenya
(Emerald Group Publishing Limited, 2004) Kavulya, Joseph M.
Regardless of the type, libraries are under pressure to justify their existence and funding through provision of customer- or market-oriented services. This requires a shift from product or service orientation to customer or need orientation. Different marketing concepts provide libraries with the tools for collecting and analysing useful data about information needs of customers, which assists in designing, developing and delivering appropriate services. This paper examines the methods used by university libraries in Kenya to market their services to different categories of users and the problems experienced therein. It concludes that, although efforts have been made to achieve this, more emphasis must be put on promotion of the already existing services and therefore on the need for university libraries in Kenya to adapt more systematic techniques in collecting data on their user needs, if they are to design and deliver services that fit user requirements.
marketing of library services: a case of selected libraries in Kenya
(Emerald Insight, 2004) Kavulya, Joseph M.
Regardless of the type, libraries are under pressure to justify their existence and funding through provision of customer‐ or market‐oriented services. This requires a shift from product or service orientation to customer or need orientation. Different marketing concepts provide libraries with the tools for collecting and analysing useful data about information needs of customers, which assists in designing, developing and delivering appropriate services. This paper examines the methods used by university libraries in Kenya to market their services to different categories of users and the problems experienced therein. It concludes that, although efforts have been made to achieve this, more emphasis must be put on promotion of the already existing services and therefore on the need for university libraries in Kenya to adapt more systematic techniques in collecting data on their user needs, if they are to design and deliver services that fit user requirements.
Adoption of Electronic journals in scholarly communication in African Universities: A review of the critical issues
(Eastern Africa Journal of Humanities and Sciences, 2004) Kavulya, Joseph M.
The advent of new information technologies, and i particular the internet offers advantages in terms of rapidity of scientific and scholarly communication and universities worldwide are fast moving from subscription of journals in print to electronic formats.However, for universities in Africa the transition to e-journals is hampered by high subscription costs as well as challenges relating to the administration, access and archiving of e-journals. This paper argues that, if African scholarship is to benefit fully from e-journals the above issues and specifically those of internet infrastructure, lack of informtion and specially those of internet infrastructure, lack of information and communication technology skills among librarians and inadequate budgetary support to university libraries in Africa have to be addressed
University Libraries in Kenya A Study of Their Practices and Performance
(Humboldt University of Berlin, 2004-02-19) Kavulya, Joseph M.
This study argues that the provision of library services in Kenyan public universities is characterised by extremely inadequate resources in terms of funds, information materials, equipment and staff. Private university libraries experience these problems albeit to a lesser degree. Although there is widespread opinion among students, lecturers as well as university administrators that university libraries play a critical role in the teaching, research, and learning activities, there is also awareness that university libraries in Kenya, especially those in public universities are not effectively providing services which has limited their role in research and learning in the university. Finally, modern information and communication technology is being incorporated in the management of university libraries in Kenya. However, this trend has been hindered by first, lack of funds to purchase equipment such as computers and set up networks, secondly by lack of skilled personnel in information technology, and finally by poor telecommunications infrastructure in the country. There is therefore need for adoption of strategic planning in all areas of library management and to remain viable sources of information, university libraries in Kenya have to make use modern information and communication technology. This will enable university libraries to facilitate better access to local and global information for example through electronic and internet media.
Challenges in the Provision of Library Services for Distance Education: A Case Study of Selected Universities in Kenya
(2004-06-04) Kavulya, Joseph M.
With the increasing popularity of distance education, focus has turned to the role of libraries in the distance learning process. It is widely agreed that like their campus-based counterparts, distance education learners need adequate library services if they are to gain quality education. This paper examines the efforts being made by Kenyan university libraries to fulfil the information needs of the distance education students in their respective institutions. It concludes that although efforts have been made, there is room for improvement through adequate planning, financing and especially through collaboration between information personnel and those who design and implement such distance education programmes.
Challenges in the Provision of Library Services for Distance Education: A Case Study of Selected Universities in Kenya
(African Journal of Library and Information Science, 2004-06-04) Kavulya, Joseph Muema
With the increasing popularity of distance education, focus has turned to the role of libraries in the distance learning process. It is widely agreed that like their campus-based counterparts, distance education learners need adequate library services if they are to gain quality education. This paper examines the efforts being made by Kenyan university libraries to fulfil the information needs of the distance education students in their respective institutions. It concludes that although efforts have been made, there is room for improvement through adequate planning, financing and especially through collaboration between information personnel and those who design and implement such distance education programmes.
Trends in funding of university libraries in Kenya: a survey
(Emerald Group Publishing Limited, 2006) Kavulya, Joseph M.
Purpose – To investigate recent trends in funding and collection development in university libraries in Kenya. Design/methodology/approach – The paper is based on primary data collected from four university libraries in Kenya as well as secondary literature relating to university libraries in Kenya. Findings – This paper concludes that funding of university library services in Kenya is inadequate. Due to diminished governmental fund allocations for these institutions, their library collection development levels have deteriorated and are characterized by low monographic purchases and limited journal subscriptions. This decline is at odds with rapidly expanding student enrolment levels. Private universities experience these problems too, but to a lesser extent. Originality/value – The paper recommends that to ensure that university libraries continue to provide adequate information services supporting teaching, learning and research, the adoption of a strategic plan in all areas of library management, and especially in funding and collection development, is needed.
Trends in funding of university libraries in Kenya: a survey
(Emerald Group Publishing Limited, 2006) Kavulya, Joseph M.
Purpose – To investigate recent trends in funding and collection development in university libraries in Kenya. Design/methodology/approach – The paper is based on primary data collected from four university libraries in Kenya as well as secondary literature relating to university libraries in Kenya. Findings – This paper concludes that funding of university library services in Kenya is inadequate. Due to diminished governmental fund allocations for these institutions, their library collection development levels have deteriorated and are characterized by low monographic purchases and limited journal subscriptions. This decline is at odds with rapidly expanding student enrolment levels. Private universities experience these problems too, but to a lesser extent. Originality/value – The paper recommends that to ensure that university libraries continue to provide adequate information services supporting teaching, learning and research, the adoption of a strategic plan in all areas of library management, and especially in funding and collection development, is needed.
Library and information science education in the 21st century: report of a needs assessment study for training of LIS professionals in Kenya
(Finesse Publishing, 2006) Kavulya, Joseph
The library and information science field in Kenya is currently characterised by a proliferation of training programmes at all levels of study. Whereas some of the courses are created and offered by local universities and tertiary institutions other are provided through distance learning by foreign institutions. At the same time the global society is characterised by changes that affect practice in information field worldwide. This study was carried out as a contribution to the effort to understand the kind of curriculum for training of Library and Information Science (LIS) professionals that equips its graduates with the right skills, knowledge and values required by the society and the current job market in Kenya.
Digital libraries and development in Sub-Saharan Africa A review of challenges and strategies
(Emerald Group Publishing Limited, 2007) Kavulya, Joseph M.
The aim of this paper is to review some of the critical information needs in Sub-Saharan Africa and the challenges that face libraries in the region in establishing digital libraries as a way of overcoming the great information shortfall in the region. Design/methodology/approach – A selective survey of relevant literature is carried out in the study with focus on the role of libraries and information in social development, sectoral information needs and the issues involved in the establishment of digital libraries. Findings – The paper argues that lack of social development in Africa is exacerbated by lack of adequate information. The paper concludes that, through better information gathering, processing and especially by taking advantage of today’s digital transfer of knowledge, countries in the Sub-Saharan region can experience rapid economic, social and political development. Originality/value – The paper concludes that digital libraries in the Sub-Saharan region can be strategic gateways to the global information and a boost to development in the region. The goal of establishing digital libraries in the region can be achieved through measures such as adoption of modern information communication technologies, amassing relevant digital content, investing in digital skills for library staff and users, strategic partnerships between local institutions, and funding agencies and above all government-backed strategy on digital libraries.
Training of library and information science (LIS) professionals in Kenya: A needs assessment
(Emerald Group Publishing Limited, 2007-03-27) Kavulya, Joseph M.
Purpose – First, to assess the status of the job market for library and information science (LIS) professionals in Kenya and the adequacy of current curricula and training resources in LIS training institutions in the country. Secondly, to identify priority areas of training and critical IT skills required by LIS professionals in relation to current job market and performance requirements. Design/methodology/approach – Using a survey research design data was collected from various categories of LIS stakeholders: students, lecturers, professionals and employers. In total 110 subjects were selected for this study using various sampling techniques and a response rate of 76.4 per cent was achieved. Questionnaires with closed and open-ended questions were used to collect data. This was a descriptive study and therefore descriptive statistics were used. Findings – A job market for LIS professionals in Kenya is perceived to exist. However, there is a general observation that the current LIS training programmes in the country do not sufficiently address current job market requirements due to: inadequate teaching resources in LIS training institutions; lack of adequate ICT content in the courses; courses that are irrelevant to the job market and inadequate length of industrial attachment. Practical implications – The paper recommends review of the current LIS curricula in Kenya in order to enhance the suitability of graduates to the current labour market. This includes integration of modern ICT into training, recruitment of qualified teaching staff, ensuring adequate learning resources and facilities, and enhancement of industrial attachment. Originality/value – The paper investigates some of the critical issues that planners of library and information science courses have to consider in the 21st century. These issues include: the emergence of the ‘‘information society’’, the multidisciplinary heritage of LIS education, the choice between liberal vis-a`-vis technical education, the emergence of the concept of digital library, and finally the need for thorough management and leadership competencies. These issues are part of the current discourse on LIS training in the sub-Saharan Africa where communities are in transition to the ‘‘information economy’’.
Digital libraries and development in Sub-Saharan Africa
(2007-06) Kavulya, Joseph M.
Purpose -- The aim of this paper is to review some of the critical information needs in Sub-Saharan Africa and the challenges that face libraries in the region in establishing digital libraries as a way of overcoming the great information shortfall in the region. Design/methodology/approach -- A selective survey of relevant literature is carried out in the study with focus on the role of libraries and information in social development, sectoral information needs and the issues involved in the establishment of digital libraries. Findings -- The paper argues that lack of social development in Africa is exacerbated by lack of adequate information. The paper concludes that, through better information gathering, processing and especially by taking advantage of today's digital transfer of knowledge, countries in the Sub-Saharan region can experience rapid economic, social and political development. Originality/value -- The paper concludes that digital libraries in the Sub-Saharan region can be strategic gateways to the global information and a boost to development in the region. The goal of establishing digital libraries in the region can be achieved through measures such as adoption of modern information communication technologies, amassing relevant digital content, investing in digital skills for library staff and users, strategic partnerships between local institutions, and funding agencies and above all government-backed strategy on digital libraries.
The Emerging role of Digital Libraries in E-learning: A Review of Challenges and O pportunities for Universities
(Strathmore University, 2008-09) Kavulya, Joseph M.
Both e-learning and digital libraries are gradually converging to transform the learning environment in many universities. This trend, which is widespread in developed countries, is gradually gaining momentum in sub-Saharan countries such as Kenya. Elearning is recognized as the ultimate convergence of learning and the internet approach to building the knowledge and skills of learners through web-enabled technologies. On the other hand, digital libraries provide technology-based information services and an organized collection of knowledge that is accessible to users via digital or electronic interface technologies to support the learning process. With the emergence of e-learning as a novel avenue to provide course content, digital libraries are viewed as appropriate means to provide supporting learning information services. This paper discusses the potential complementary interaction between library environments and learning environments to create more productive experiences for learners. The paper will also explore strategic and technological issues involved in creating systems that facilitate high-level and effective interaction between future e-learning environments and the digital library world.
The Emerging role of digital libraries in e-learning: A review of opportunities and challenges facing Kenyan universities
(2008-09) Kavulya, Joseph M.
Both e-learning and digital libraries are gradually converging to transform the learning environment in many universities. This trend, which is widespread in the developed countries, is gradually gaining momentum in sub-Saharan countries such as Kenya. Elearning is recognised as the ultimate convergence of learning and the internet approach to building the knowledge and skills of learners through web enabled technologies. On the other hand, digital libraries provide technology-based information services and organized collection of knowledge which is accessible to users via digital or electronic interface technologies to support the learning process. With the emergence of e-learning as a novel avenue to provide course content, digital libraries are viewed as appropriate means to provide the supporting learning information services . This paper discusses the potential complementary interaction between library environments and learning environments to create more productive experiences for the learners. The paper will also explore strategic and technological issues involved in creating systems that facilitate high level and effective interaction between future e-learning environment and digital library world.
The quest for a development-oriented information society in the sub-Saharan Africa: implications for CPD programmes of LIS professionals in the region
(The Maktaba: A Journal of the Kenya Library Association, 2009) Kavulya, Joseph M.
This paper reviews key values and skills that CPD initiatives for LIS professionals in the subSaharan region should focus on to enable them effectively contribute to the transformation of the region into an information society. The article argues that LIS professionals in the sub-Saharan countries can contribute to the transformation of the region to a development-oriented information society. In so doing, they will contribute to social development and specifically the attainment of Millennium Development Goals. To be active participants in the emerging information society LIS professionals in the region must possess certain values, skills and knowledge in areas such as advocacy, management and leadership, ICT and research. They should also be conversant with contextual issues relating to the global information society such as sustainable development, information literacy, gender and development, globalisation, human rights, and, ethics. The findings in this paper lay the basis for further investigation and planning of CPD programmes in the region.
Access to Scientific Information and Quality in Higher Education in the African Region: The Critical Role of Information Literacy.
(CUEA Press, 2011) Kavulya, Joseph M.
This paper examines first, why information literacy is a major factor in quality education in higher institutions of learning (HEIs) and crucial in the emerging knowledge society. Secondly, it examines literature to provide an overview of the current status of information literacy in the African region. Finally, it examines key challenges that universities in the region face and strategies they can adopt to ensure quality of learning outcomes through information literacy. The paper concludes that information literacy is a fundamental element of the survival skills required by young people in the knowledge economy of the twenty-first century. There is substantial development of information literacy in universities in the Sub-Saharan region although this development is uneven. The paper proposes a number of measures that can be undertaken to successfully implement information literacy programmes such as collaboration between academics and librarians collaborate in developing appropriate strategies for delivering information literacy training, integrating information literacy into the teaching and assessment process by establishing viable library services as an key component in the educational process.
Realizing the vision of a Learning Resource Centre (LRC) at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa
(CUEA PRESS, 2011) Kavulya, Joseph M
Adoption of e-books in university education in Sub-Saharan Africa: A possible conceptual framework
(The Maktaba: Journal of the Kenya Library Association, 2012) Kavulya, Joseph M.; Kiruki, B

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