Kenya Methodist University crestKENYA METHODIST UNIVERSITYDigital Repository
 

Master of Information Science

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    Analysis of Strategies for Enhancing User Engagement in University Libraries in Meru County, Kenya
    (KeMU, 2024-09) Mutuma, Martin Muthomi
    The interactions among students, faculty, and staff with library resources, services, and facilities define user engagement in university libraries. To encourage engagement, these libraries invest in digital collections, empower users through information literacy workshops, gather feedback via surveys to customize their services, and build a strong social media presence to foster a sense of community and connection among library users. Unfortunately, some university libraries are facing low user engagement. This study aimed to analyze strategies for enhancing user engagement in university libraries in Meru County, with a particular emphasis on suggesting practical best practices. The objectives of this study were to evaluate how digital resource accessibility enhances user engagement, assess user survey mechanisms for improving engagement, examine the use of information literacy programs to boost engagement, and analyze social media strategies to increase engagement. The study was guided by information interaction theory, flow theory, and the social media integration framework. It adopted a descriptive survey research design. The target population consisted of 13,000 undergraduate students, 665 postgraduate students, and 25 library staff from Meru University and Kenya Methodist University. A sample of 434 undergraduate students, 267 postgraduate students, and 15 library staff participated in the study. The researcher first stratified the undergraduate and postgraduate students and then applied a simple random sampling technique to each group to ensure representation across different academic disciplines and years of study. Purposive sampling was used to select library staff participants. The researcher gathered data from undergraduate and postgraduate students through questionnaires and conducted interviews with library staff. The instruments were pretested to ensure their reliability, which was crucial for producing trustworthy and replicable research findings. A reliability test using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was conducted on the research instruments to ensure reliability. The qualitative data were thematically analyzed and presented in thematic categories and narratives, while the quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS. Descriptive statistics such as mean and standard deviation were computed, and the results were presented using tables and figures. The research adhered to ethical guidelines, including observing all research policies and ensuring the safety and confidentiality of the respondents. The study results revealed a significant level of engagement between students and library staff, with students frequently seeking assistance for research and resource location. Extensive use of online databases and electronic resources was noted; however, many students experienced difficulties in effectively using e-journals and institutional repositories. Additionally, user surveys were conducted sporadically with a poor response rate, and poor attendance at information literacy sessions was observed, with sessions not equipping students with efficient search strategies. Furthermore, most students felt library staff were unresponsive on social media, and the staff were unaware of effective methods to measure social media engagement. The study concludes that maintaining knowledgeable library staff, improving the quality and accessibility of digital resources, reassessing event planning and promotion strategies, enhancing social media engagement, and better promoting information literacy sessions are essential for enhancing user engagement. It recommended that university libraries in Meru County conduct regular user surveys, incorporate advanced search techniques in information literacy programs, establish clear social media engagement protocols, and integrate information literacy sessions into the academic curriculum.
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    Analysis of Strategies for Promoting Knowledge Sharing Among Staff at Kenya National Library Service
    (KeMU, 2024-09) Moracha, Sarah Nyanchama
    The study investigated the challenges faced by the Kenya National Library Service (KNLS) in promoting effective knowledge sharing among its staff. Despite various initiatives aimed at enhancing knowledge exchange, gaps in implementation led to inefficiencies and less-than-optimal service delivery. The primary purpose of the research was to evaluate and improve knowledge-sharing practices within KNLS. Specifically, the study aimed to assess the effectiveness of existing knowledge-sharing systems, examine how storytelling and mentorship contribute to knowledge sharing, explore the role of Communities of Practice (CoPs), and evaluate the impact of technology on facilitating knowledge exchange. Guided by Social Learning Theory, which emphasizes learning through social interactions; the Communities of Practice theory, which focuses on collaborative learning in professional groups; and the Technology Acceptance Model, which examines the adoption and use of technology, the study provided a theoretical framework for understanding and improving knowledge-sharing practices. The research employed a descriptive design and was conducted at the KNLS headquarters in Nairobi, along with several branches including Nairobi Area Library, Mombasa Library, Kisumu Library, Nakuru Library, and Eldoret Library. The target population included 223 staff members, comprising librarians, technical staff, administrative personnel, and management. A sample of 123 participants was drawn using stratified and purposive sampling techniques. Data were collected through online questionnaires and interviews, with validity ensured through content, construct, and face validity, and reliability assessed using Cronbach’s alpha. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The major findings of the study highlighted the significance of knowledge-sharing systems, storytelling, mentorship, and technology in fostering a collaborative environment at KNLS. It was found that effective knowledge-sharing systems and the application of storytelling and mentorship significantly contributed to improved staff performance and collaboration. Communities of Practice were instrumental in addressing challenges and sharing best practices but required clearer objectives and more active participation. The study concluded that while KNLS had mechanisms in place for knowledge sharing, implementation gaps existed. Storytelling and mentorship were effective but needed refinement to better support staff development. Communities of Practice contributed positively but needed clearer goals and more engagement. Technology was essential but required better integration and user support. To address these issues, the study recommended that KNLS management develop structured mentorship frameworks and provide regular training to improve mentorship programs. Strengthening Communities of Practice by setting clear, shared goals and fostering active member participation was also advised. Additionally, improving the usability and accessibility of digital tools and providing ongoing staff training were necessary for better technology integration. The study’s most significant contribution is its comprehensive evaluation of knowledge sharing strategies within a national library context. It offers actionable insights into improving knowledge management practices specifically within KNLS and underscores the importance of integrating theoretical frameworks with practical applications to enhance organizational effectiveness.