A comparative study of the utilization of Information Communication Technology in the provision of information at Moi University library nd United States International University library Kenya

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this study was to examine the adoption and utilization of information communication technology (ICT) use in information provision to library users in two universities in Kenya. The objectives of the study were to: examine the extent of ICT utilization in the provision of information at the two institutions, determine the institutional factors that influence the adoption and utilization of ICT in the provision of information at Universities, compare the utilization of ICT in the provision of information at the two institutions, establish the challenges, suggest ways of improvement. Design/methodology/approach – Data-gathering tools used included questionnaire, and interview with selected university library users and key informants. Data processing and analysis was done using descriptive and analytical methods. Questionnaires for respondents and interviews for informants were used. The key informants included the ICT Personnel, university top management, library managers. A mixed method approach was used, whereby both qualitative and quantitative data were obtained. A sample size of 92 from MTL and 80 from USIU-A resource center. Purposive sampling was used in selecting the informants and simple random sampling to select the respondents. Findings – The extent of ICT utilization in Margaret thatcher library (MTL) (36.4%, 4) whereas in United States International University Africa (USIU-A) resource center (100%, 7) libraries. Staff training: MTL (82%, 9), while in USIU-A resource center (100%, 7). Funding: MTL (27.2%, 3) while in USIU-A resource center (100%, 7).ICT policy: both universities had a draft ICT Policy. Organizational support: MTL (72.7%, 8), while in USIU-A resource center 7(100%, 7). Infrastructure: MTL (54.5%, 6) whereas in USIU-A resource center (100%). Conclusions -the study concludes that utilization of ICT in the private university USIU-A was more enhanced in comparison to the public university library MTL. Institutions should allocate adequate budgets for the public university libraries in order to enhance on the library service delivery. Recommendations - the study recommends that universities should allocate adequate financial resources towards ICT, in order to enhance utilization. The study recommends training and re- training of staff, formulation of ICT policy; upgrading of ICT resources and incorporation of information literacy skills in the university Curriculum. Originality/value – This is a comprehensive comparative study between a public and private university on adoption and utilization ICT in the provision of information services to library users in the Kenyan context.