The Strategic Management Practices in Academic Libraries in Kenya: The Case of USIU Library

Abstract

This research investigated the practices of strategic management in academic libraries. The paper is based on a study that was conducted in 2009-2010. Using USIU library as a case study, it aimed to find out the nature of shifting paradigms in information management, establish the key challenges and ascertained how strategic management was practiced. A descriptive research design was used with a sample size of 153 drawn from students, library and teaching staff. Descriptive, inferential statistics and factor analysis were used. The volatility in information industry has necessitated the application of strategic management principles in information management. This is characterized by far-reaching impacts of ICT, paradigm shifts in users’ behavior and subsequent changes in librarian’s roles with implications on library’s strategy development, implementation and evaluation. Staff welfare matters and leadership are critical in successful implementation of the desired strategy. The study concludes that strategic behavior in academic libraries is being inhibited by the leadership behavior, structures, systems, and lack of strategy supportive policies. It underscores the critical role played by library management in building competitive organization. It recommends installation of appropriate leadership models for better alignment of staff goals with those of the library. Strategic behavior should be nurtured in academic libraries through involvement of all stakeholders in strategic management process. The study further recommends need for clear communication and measures of institutionalizing library vision, mission, objective, values, and timely evaluation of performance. Librarians should play a front role in reflecting responsiveness to library’s strategic issues in their professional practice.