Adoption of ICT in kenyan academic libraries : A case of maasai mara university library.

Abstract

The environment in which libraries operate has changed significantly with the advent of information age. Technological advancement has compelled libraries to adopt interactive online media for their survival mainly because of its profound influence to the functions of libraries and the information seeking behavior of the readers. However, the proliferation of new technologies opens a number of challenges for libraries in institutions of higher learning which include; inadequate infrastructure, inadequate skills, inadequate funding among other factors. In an effort to ensure that libraries remain forecast in their objective in this era of ICT, academic libraries in Kenya should adopt and maintain new ICTs.The library services that have been computerized include electronic books and journals, internet services and OPAC services. High cost of computer hardware and software are some of the major factors identified as barriers to ICT adoption. Despite the challenges, respondents strongly agreed that ICTs improves the accessibility and provision of current information. Improving the ICT skills of the librarians improves the adoption process. The ICT in Maasai Mara University Library is used in Bibliographic control and institution repository. The library has OPAC, an element of searching and retrieving of documents. This have improved searching and retrieval of documents, wider access of resources from different sources, improved research and acquisition of new knowledge, proper control of stock by monitoring lost books. Learning have also improved. It also reduces human effort. ICT also reduces the duplication of work and helps in decision making.