Investigation on the Utilization of Reference Materials and Services by Students in Selected Academic Libraries in Tanzania.

Msogolwa, Wilson (2024) Investigation on the Utilization of Reference Materials and Services by Students in Selected Academic Libraries in Tanzania. Masters thesis, The Open University of Tanzania.

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Abstract

This study investigated the utilization of reference materials and services by students at the Open University of Tanzania (OUT) and the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM). The specific objectives include determining students' awareness of the availability of reference materials and services, assessing their perceptions towards these resources, evaluating the extent of utilization, identifying challenges faced in accessing and using reference materials and providing recommendations for improvement. The study employed descriptive research design and adopted qualitative and quantitative approaches. The study population comprised 25100 students and library staff and a sample size of 394. The study data was collected using questionnaire and supplemented by interview guide. The findings revealed a high level of awareness among students, primarily due to orientation and information literacy programs. Various reference materials such as almanacs, dictionaries, and internet facilities were reported available, with overall satisfaction expressed regarding service quality. However, students highlighted challenges such as inadequate internet facilities, limited copies of resources, and technological barriers affecting their utilization of reference materials and services. The study recommends enhancing user education, regularly updating materials, improving digital access, and expanding interlibrary loan services to address these issues and enhance the availability and usability of reference materials and services in academic libraries.

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