Abstract:
The purpose of this paper was to find out the position of library spaces and facilities at the university libraries
in Kenya particularly in serving users with disabilities. The study was conducted using a pragmatic research
philosophy, a convergent mixed methods design and a multiple-case studies strategy. The study population
was university library users and librarians drawn from six public and private universities in Kenya. The six
universities were selected purposefully based on their age (time they have been in existence) with an
assumption that old universities have more developed infrastructure. Data was collected from students and
academic staff who participated in an online survey; librarians participated in online focus groups and follow
up online surveys while university librarians and students with disabilities had telephone call interviews.
There were follow up telephone calls with the university librarians. The online survey was conducted using
online questionnaires that were distributed via emails and Whatsapp. Online focus group discussions were
conducted in Google Meet platform and interviews were conducted via personal telephone calls. The
qualitative data collected was analysed thematically while the quantitative data adopted a statistical
approach that encompasses descriptive and inferential statistics. After exploring inclusivity of university
library spaces and facilities in Kenya for users with disabilities, this paper noted though the university libraries
offered some space and facilities for PWDs, these were far from sufficient. The findings revealed that library
staff required training on how to handle and assist PWDs and sign language was largely emphasised.
However, the study concluded that accommodating diverse needs of persons with disabilities is a long-term
process that requires involvement of all the relevant stakeholders. In addition, the study noted that access to
services and facilities for PWDs is another significant aspect of modernised university library.
