Assessment of Institutional Repository Usage in Academic Library in Tanzania: A Case of the Institute of Accountancy Arusha and Moshi Co-Operative University.

Mallya, Asha Mussa (2025) Assessment of Institutional Repository Usage in Academic Library in Tanzania: A Case of the Institute of Accountancy Arusha and Moshi Co-Operative University. Masters thesis, The Open University of Tanzania.

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Abstract

This study assessed the use of institutional repositories in higher learning institutions, specifically at the Institute of Accountancy Arusha (IAA) and Moshi Co-operative University (MoCU). The study was guided by four specific objectives: to identify resources offered through institutional repositories, to examine the use of information available in the repositories, to determine users’ awareness of available resources, and to identify challenges faced by users. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining both quantitative and qualitative data collection, and adopted a cross-sectional research design to capture information at a single point in time. Purposeful and convenience sampling procedures were used to select participants who could provide relevant insights into repository usage. Findings revealed that both IAA and MoCU libraries offered a variety of services, including reading services (books, journals, dissertations, and periodicals), reference services, computer access, electronic materials, newspaper services, and lending services. The study identified several challenges affecting repository usage, including inadequate internet facilities, limited selection of content uploaded to the repository, concerns over copyright infringement, unreliable electricity supply, low awareness of repository use, and poor ICT skills among users. Based on the findings, the study recommended increasing user engagement and training programs to enhance repository utilization, providing targeted support for users with lower education levels, improving ICT infrastructure, streamlining the content deposition process, establishing or strengthening institutional repository systems, and raising awareness about the importance and use of IRs. Keywords: Institutional Repository, Institutional Repository Usage, Academic Library, Tanzania.

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