Masters Degrees (Information Studies)

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Academic information needs and information seeking behaviour of grade 11 learners of Eastwood Secondary School.
(2017) Richard, Sunitha.; Monyela, Madireng Jane.
Information is considered an important resource that is essentially needed in all human endeavours. Information is a message that changes an individual’s knowledge by adding to existing knowledge or filling in the gap, hence information significantly enhances the existing knowledge of the user. For a learners to excel academically, it is necessary for the learners to make use of relevant and pertinent information to ensure his or her success. Learners are expected to build their knowledge through engaging with a wide range of resources and the emphasis in assessment learning is on projects and portfolios of work instead of rote memorizing of textbooks and teacher’s notes. Learners purposively seek information to satisfy their school work related needs. Aim: This study examines the academic information needs and information seeking behaviour of grade 11 learners at Eastwood Secondary School. Methodology: The research employed a quantitative methodology in the form of a survey. The questionnaire was used as a data collection instrument to collect data from 169 grade 11 learners, which produced a response rate of 100%. Findings: The findings revealed that that the learners were most in need of information that dealt with the subjects of mathematics, physical science and English. The information sources that were most sought after included the Internet, textbooks and study guides. Learners revealed that they preferred printed material followed by online material. English was the most preferred language when searching for information. It was found that academic needs influenced their searching behaviour on the Internet and in books. Learners were found to be most satisfied with the use of the Internet and cell phone when searching for information. The learners were faced with various challenges; the major challenges was the poor staff attitude of the community /public library, the school being without a functioning library and the lack of time to seek needed information. Recommendations: The study recommends the following: collaboration between community/public library and the school, school library policy, functioning school library, increase in public funding to schools for information resources, computers with internet connectivity at schools and for a teacher librarian to teach information literacy.
Academic information needs and information-seeking behaviour of Haythorne Secondary grade eight learners using the Msunduzi Woodlands Branch Public Library, Pietermaritzburg.
(2017) Budhu, Bhavisha Premdass.; Kheswa, Siyanda Edison.
Information is an essential ingredient for a socially and economically engaged democracy in any community. The changes and advancements in the educational system and the lack of school libraries have resulted in a paradigm shift in the role that public libraries play in the 21st century. This necessitates public libraries to become knowledgeable about current information needs and the information-seeking-behaviour of its users. It is against this backdrop that this study investigates the academic information needs and information-seeking behaviour of grade eight learners of Haythorne Secondary using the Msunduzi Woodlands Branch Public Library, Pietermaritzburg. The study’s methodology was largely quantitative, with some qualitative elements as it seeks to identify the academic information needs of a particular community. Hence a mixed methods approach was adopted in order to accommodate both sets of data. The study utilised a descriptive cross-sectional survey design. A census survey was undertaken with a sample of grade eight learners (256 learners) of Haythorne Secondary who used the Msunduzi Woodlands Branch Public Library, Pietermaritzburg. The study seeks to ensure equal representation as well as represented, input from both registered and non-registered library users. The instrument used for collecting data from learners was a self-administered questionnaire consisting of closed and open-ended questions. In addition, a semi-structured interview schedule was used to collect data from the Northern Branches Senior Librarian. The reliability and validity of the questionnaire were ensured through a pre-test on a group of grade eight learners at Eastwood Secondary School, Pietermaritzburg. The quantitative data was captured using SPSS software. The qualitative data were analysed manually using thematic analysis. The results of the study showed that the information needs and information-seeking behaviour of the learners was influenced by their age and educational context. Learners needed information for diverse purposes, however, their most frequent information need was for academic purposes, self-education, solving problems, health, recreation or leisure, news, family emerging sexuality and careers. The preferred information sources included the Internet, books, study guides, newspapers and informal information sources (professionals, family and friends). The barriers experienced by learners to seeking information from the library included the absence of public computers, Internet access, insufficient and relevant library resources and constraint of library hours. Based on the findings, recommendations were made to address certain problems presented in this study. The fundamental conclusion is that sustainable information dissemination and library services in public libraries within the 21st century will depend on a more dynamic leadership and vision of a new model of a public library that holistically embraces the absence of school libraries and bridges the digital divide.
Adult users’ perceptions of library services provided by Nongoma Public Library, Kwazulu-Natal.
(2020) Buthelezi, Nombuso Portia.; Kheswa, Siyanda Edison.
The study investigated adult users’ perceptions of the library services provided by the Nongoma Public Library (NPL) in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). It examined the quality of service provided by the library to its adult library users, by determining their expectations and perceptions of the services provided and whether there were any gaps between users’ expectations and perceptions. It also investigated users’ level of satisfaction with the quality of services rendered. Since its inception in 1996 and despite its importance, no assessment of the NPL had been conducted from the perspective of its users. This study intended to fill this gap and it is assumed that the findings will form a baseline and framework for future services provided by the library. Using convenience sampling a sample of 262 adults was selected from the 819 registered adult library users. One hundred and thirteen (113) users completed the questionnaire giving a response rate of 43.1% which was considered acceptable for purposes of analysis and reporting. The study adopted a quantitative approach using the survey design. The LibQUAL+TM survey instrument which was used to collect data was modified and adapted for use in a public library. In line with the quantitative approach, the majority of the questions asked were closed. The results from the questionnaire survey were analysed using SPSS to determine the frequency of responses and were presented in the form of tables and figures. The results of the survey support the usefulness of the LibQUAL+TM instrument used in the study and its importance in the context of public library services. The findings indicate that in most instances, expectations exceeded perceptions regarding the quality of the services provided by the library. However, the gaps between the two were, for the most part, not significant and the extent of the gap depended on the individual services. Significant gaps were found in the categories “Library facility” and “Access to information”. Certain aspects of the category “Staff services” were found to be of concern. Findings revealed that the majority of adult users ranked the overall quality of services as good and that the library is, to a large extent, excelling in service provision. Based on the findings, recommendations were made to address the problems identified in the study. The results will be used for service improvements and to make informed decisions concerning the quality of services that are offered at the NPL. The thesis concluded with suggestions for further research. The findings of the survey that indicated that although the adult library users were satisfied with library services they received from Nongoma Public Library but there was a room for improvement. The respondents mentioned the most problematic services as the lack of adequate computers and access to Internet. The respondents further reported that there were gaps in sections involving Access to Information, Access to Electronic Resources, Library Staff and the Library facility. The study recommends that service quality be improved, in a way that the library would satisfy its adult user.
An analysis of the curricula of school librarianship programmes in colleges of education in Transkei, Venda, Bophuthatswana and Ciskei.
(1994) Majaja, Vatiswa Violet.; Horton, Weldon J.
Abstract available in PDF.
An assessment of the integration of information literacy education into first year programmes in the Faculty of Management Sciences at the Durban University of Technology - Durban Campus.
(2016) Naicker, Kogilambal.; Leach, Athol Brian.
Abstract available in PDF.
Collection development and use of non-book materials in university libraries in South Africa.
(1999) Ntuli, Nomaxabiso Claribel.; Kaniki, Andrew M.
Non-book materials have a unique role to play in university libraries of South Africa, as they re-inforce what has been learnt and facilitate presentation of subject matter to fulfil the needs of teaching and learning of institutions. The key problem of the study was that non-book materials though very important as sources of information like books, appear to be little or not used in South African university libraries. This may be caused by unclear policy presented in formal or informal collection development policies. The general aim of the study was to find out collection development practices, policies and use of non-book materials in South African university libraries. To this end the specific objectives were: To find out how non-book materials in university libraries are collected and maintained as part of teaching, learning and research. To get some understanding on the policies and patterns the university libraries follow in the development of non-book materials. To find out the manner in which non-book materials are funded and acquired. To find out the extent to which library orientation, instruction and user education cover non-book materials. The study therefore examined the collection development and usage of nonbook materials in university libraries of South Africa. All the South African university libraries except University of Zululand where the researcher works and is the AV-librarian were included in the study. The major method of study chosen was the survey method and the questionnaire was used for data collection. The methods of analysis used were the univariate and bi-variate methods and the basic type of statistics, the descriptive statistics. Libraries surveyed showed that they favoured non-book materials, and above all they do have the most NBM that are available in all formats. The study guided the researcher in making the following recommendations: The need for improvement of the NBM information services in libraries. That clear policies, whether written or not, for selection and acquisition of NBM be reviewed in libraries in South Africa. The role of NBM specialist is important and needs to be redressed. That the academic staff, library staff and students work together as a team and devise a program of library user education integrated with curriculum.
The contribution of eThekwini Municipal public libraries towards social cohesion.
(2018) Padayachee, Mohini.; Nsibirwa, Zawedde Gulikomuseesa.
The term social cohesion has become very popular in the post-apartheid South African political landscape. The government, through social cohesion, has embarked on a process of nation building. Public libraries’ role in social cohesion is to provide access to information which is recognised as a human right and a means to redistribute power and status. The purpose of the study was to examine the contribution of eThekwini Municipal Libraries (EML) to social cohesion. This was achieved through examining EML’s four main resources namely: library buildings, library collections, library programmes and staff. The conceptual framework on social cohesion used in this study was developed by researchers within the South African Human Science Research Council taking into account the South African context. The conceptual framework model identified three domains to be considered when researching social cohesion, namely, the economic domain, civic domain and socio-cultural domain. The study falls within socio-cultural domain as libraries are contributors to social capital through the services they provide. The DAC (2018:102) views the goal of libraries to be enhancing “quality of life, wellbeing and happiness, social capital, social cohesion and social inclusion, safety and security.” All branch librarians in EML were requested to participate in the study making for a census survey through a self-administered questionnaire. This study was primarily quantitative in design with librarians given an opportunity to provide qualitative responses to elaborate on their answers if they so chose. A response rate of 65% was achieved which is considered good. The major research findings indicate that while EML are contributing towards social cohesion in terms of the four resources noted above, there are shortcomings due to a lack of effective policies and procedures, funding, staff training and expertise. This is compounded by the lack of a proper legislative framework for public libraries to operate within. This has resulted in the current precarious state of Public Libraries being insufficiently funded, resulting in Public Libraries being referred to as an unfunded mandate. Conclusions and recommendations based on the findings are made. The study established that effectively contributing towards social cohesion is dependent on efficient and effective functioning of library resources which in turn is dependent on a number of factors. These include a proper legislative framework that provides a firm foundation for the functioning of public libraries, adequate funding as well as skills and knowledge on social cohesion.
Copyright and digital music collections in South Africa.
(2009) Polak, Fiona Margaret.; Leach, Athol Brian.
The crux of the research problem for this study pertains to the fact that, as the world moves towards a digital age, it is imperative that we gain insight into the current copyright laws which govern the transferring of music from the old analogue form to the new digital formats. In terms of the research problem, this study explores the South African Copyright Act No. 98 of 1978 as it pertains to the transferring of sound recordings from analogue to digital format. The study also examined digital copyright laws for sound recordings in the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia as well as major copyright conventions and treaties as these international copyright laws impact on the South African situation, especially in terms of reciprocity. Furthermore, the study addressed the issue of balancing the rights between copyright holders and the public good in the preservation and dissemination of knowledge in the digital age. The study employed methodological triangulation which included a literature search, a questionnaire and informal interviews. The population constituted 16 music librarians and two legal librarians who were surveyed. Quantitative and qualitative techniques were employed. Considering the size of the population (18) the results of a self-administered questionnaire were analysed using a calculator. Data collected for the informal interviews was analysed qualitatively. The study revealed that music librarians in South Africa are not well-versed in South African copyright law, especially as it applies to sound recordings. Guidelines, based on the South African Copyright Act No. 98 of 1978, and specifically for South African music librarians, have been formulated concerning both print and the actual sound recordings. It is important for the music librarian to take note that the composition of songs in a sound recording has an individual copyright that is separate from the copyright of the sound recording. Further copyrights can also exist in, for example, the sleeve of an album. It is anticipated that the guidelines will give clarity to music librarians on South African digital copyright legislation with regard to sound recordings.
Developing guidelines for performance appraisal of subject librarians in KwaZulu-Natal academic libraries
(2004) Neerputh, Shirlene.; Hoskins, Ruth Geraldine Melonie.
A common theme emerging in the library world today is that quality service in the library and information center is dependent on the quality performance of personnel. Prior to conducting performance appraisals, managers need to ascertain the core performance criteria for quality service provision. This study is important because academic libraries are undergoing radical changes with an emphasis on accountability. In particular, South African tertiary education is faced with dwindling resources and an increased emphasis on accountability. There appears to be no formal or informal guidelines for appraising the value of subject librarians performing information services in KwaZulu-Natal academic libraries. It is this problem which this study addressed. The problem investigated in this study is located in the following KwaZulu-Natal academic libraries: Durban Institute of Technology (DIT), Mangosuthu Technikon (Mantech), University of Durban-Westville (UDW) , University of Natal, Durban (UND) and University of NataL, Pietermaritzburg (UNP) and the University of Zululand (UniZul). The purpose of the study was to emphasize the importance of performance appraisals for subject librarians employed in KwaZulu-Natal academic libraries and develop initial guidelines for performance appraisals for subject librarians. The scope of this study is placed within the library human resource management perspective and deals with developing and training librarians for enhanced service delivery within the above tertiary institutions. Thirty nine subject librarians (from a total of forty three) were surveyed by means of a self administered questionnaire which was distributed via e-mail. The study was able to establish the important aspects of performance appraisal for subject librarians from the literature review, and to make recommendations in respect of developing guidelines for appraising subject librarians in academic libraries. An initial guideline for conducting performance appraisal for subject librarians in KwaZulu-Natal will consist of appraising job tasks, key performance areas (KPAs), determining the relevant competencies, skills and behaviour traits. The major findings of the study were that there appears to be generally a lack of commitment to performance appraisal in KwaZulu-Natal academic libraries. A large majority of the respondents indicated that their libraries did not have guidelines for performance appraisals of subject librarians. The important aspects of performance appraisal for subject librarians were identified in the study. Key performance areas (KPAs) for subject librarians comprised of reference services, instruction and teaching, management and organisation. The competencies included knowledge of the total information environment as well as customer services. The majority of the respondents indicated that patron surveys were the most important indicator of performance of subject librarians in KwaZulu-Natal academic libraries.
The digitization of theses and dissertations at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
(2014) Nyide, Bongiwe Cleopatra.; Nsibirwa, Zawedde Gulikomuseesa.
This study investigated the digitization of theses and dissertations at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. The main aim of the study was to try to address the issues and challenges encountered in the UKZN project, to help ensure that new digitization projects fulfil the expectations of libraries, students, and other stakeholders such as academics and other institutions. The population of the study was the entire library staff involved in the digitization of theses and dissertation projects at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. The sample consisted of library staff who were selected using purposive sampling. The actual number of respondents was 30 respondents, out of a population of 36 staff-members. Out of the 30 respondents nine participated in structured interviews, while the remaining 21 answered the questionnaire. The central theme of the study was to investigate challenges that the University of KwaZulu-Natal encountered, and still encounters, in its digitization of theses and dissertation projects. The researcher used both qualitative and quantitative research methods (mixed method). Structured interviews and questionnaires were used as research instruments. The quantitative data that was collected was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPPS) and the qualitative data, after having been coded, was manually analyzed. Data collected was presented in the form of frequency tables and pie charts. Through this study the researcher hoped to make recommendations on identified issues. The researcher hoped that such recommendations would help provide ways in which future digitization projects could be implemented. The researcher also hoped that this project would increase the librarians’ understanding of the importance of the digitization of theses and dissertations which, in turn, would encourage them to participate in the formulation of digitization strategies and policies. The data collected was divided into seven categories, namely demographic information, background information, strategies and policies, staff training, staff support, technical support and library challenges. Results showed that the University of KwaZulu-Natal library theses and dissertations digitization project did not have guiding digitization strategy and policies. In addition to this here were no clear communication lines. As a result there were unexpected delays to the project which was supposed to last for two years.
The effect of problem-based learning on medical libraries in South Africa.
(2008) Ngcobo, Eunice Nonhlanhla.; Hoskins, Ruth Geraldine Melonie.
The study investigated the effect of problem-based learning (PBL) on medical libraries in South Africa. PBL, as a teaching/learning method, has been used in medical schools throughout the world for the past twenty or more years. It was introduced into South African medical schools in the early 1990s. Its impact was felt beyond the academia. Libraries, as engines of the institutions at which they are based, were greatly affected by the introduction of PBL.
The effects of teacher-librarianship training at the colleges of education in the former Transkei on school libraries.
(1994) Pholosi, Tsosane Jonas.; Horton, William H.; Radebe, Thulisile Eddista.
This study investigated whether there is any significant difference between the training of teacher-librarians with the use of library facilities and the training which does not use library facilities. The study was based on the colleges of education in the former Transkei where the training of teacher librarians is mostly conducted with the use of very little or no library facilities. The research sample of 50% was selected from second year teacher-librarianship students who do the course as part of their teacher training at one of the colleges of education in the region mentioned above. This college was chosen on the basis that it has the best library facilities of all of them, and also that the teacher-librarianship programme offered in all these colleges is the same. A test was used as a method of gathering data. The statistical testing of the data indicated a significant difference between the two methods of instruction mentioned above, thus leading to the rejection of the null hypothesis in favour of the research hypothesis. The major conclusion drawn was that: The use of school modelled college library facilities in the training of teacher-librarians is the basic and useful tool towards the provision of functional school libraries.
Establishing an internet-based information exchange system for the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands Rural Development Network (MIDNET), South Africa.
(2002-02-02) Setegn, Amare Molla.; Kaniki, Andrew M.
The purpose underpinning the study was to establish the prospect of developing a supplementary Internet-based information exchange system for the Natal Midlands Rural Development Network (MIDNET) and to propose a model of operation for the anticipated system. The study intended to propose, based on findings, steps and strategies that need to be taken on how best to integrate an Internet based information exchange system into the requirements and capacity of MIDNET members. To accomplish the objectives of the study, both primary and secondary sources of data were used. Literature on cooperation and networking and application of the Internet for information exchange networking were reviewed, analyzed and conceptualized to establish feasibility dimensions for an Internet-based information exchange system in a network environment and to plan a model of operation for the system. Original research was carried out using a self-administered questionnaire to MIDNET members during July through November 2001. Out ofthe questionnaires distributed to all 32 members, 18 (56.8%) were returned and used. Data collected was related to current information exchange activities; general information needs; availability of information resources in terms of ICTs infrastructure, organization and human resources and funding; and opinions on establishing an Internet based information exchange system. Supplementary information was also collected through observation of some aspects of the information exchange and dissemination activities of MIDNET members. Document analysis was done mainly to establish the contents ofthe information products of MIDNET members, MIDNET and interest groups of MIDNET. Based on general information needs established in the present study, MIDNET members were found to have similar objectives, activities and disciplines of work geared toward similar goals within rural development, the thematic boundary of the network. MIDNET was found to draw in, within its membership, geographical and thematic boundary, like-minded organizations and individuals that have similar information seeking behavior. Members, when motivated by five reasons, were found to exchange information using nine kinds ofcommunication media and mechanisms and 16 categories ofinformation products and activities which reflected 27 information content categories. The information products of members, MIDNET and interest groups of MIDNET were largely in the category of grey literature. Most members were found to have a good state oflCTs infrastructure in terms of owning computers, computer networks, Internet connectivity and development of Internet-based information exchange and dissemination systems. Most members do not have information support services backed by conventional information units and professionals. Ad hoc arrangements of responsibility for information work were used in most instances. Findings concerning funding infonnation exchange activities were inadequate to examine the trend in funding. Findings concerning problems and factors that impeded current information exchange activities and solutions suggested by members reflected the need to improve current communication and information delivery interfaces and to establish an Internet-based information system as a supplementary interface. Members indicated an overwhelming desire to participate in and contribute to the anticipated system, although there was a reluctance in terms of system inputs other than information. Analysis of the study findings in terms of fundamental feasibility dimensions showed that the Internet, if appropriately and effectively used, has the prospect to facilitate communication and information exchange in MIDNET by way of replicating current interfaces. The study proposes a model plan for the establishment of an Internet-based information exchange system that would suit the requirements and capacity of members. The plan is proposed based on findings of the present study and valid reflections from a review of the literature in terms of prerequisites for networking, basic requirements and general principles. Other aspects considered were models of cooperation on the Internet and methodological approaches for the development and impact assessment ofan Internet-based information exchange system in the development sector.
Evaluating critical success factors of remote work for bank employees, in Gauteng, South Africa.
(2023) Hadebe, Pearl Mbali.; Naidoo, Karunagaran.
Remote working occurs when employees conduct work outside the traditional office location of the employer. This practice has been steadily increasing over the years due to technological enablers and globalization. However, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated remote working in the past few years because of government social distancing regulations, that were enforced to circumvent the spread of the virus. The regulations influenced many organizations to unexpectedly adopt remote work policies. This was due to their required adherence to COVID-19 restrictions and sustained business continuity, during the global health crisis. Even though literature provides numerous studies on remote work, they are often not in the context of South Africa and the COVID-19 period. The focus of this research was to determine predictors of remote work success in a South African context, considering the pre- and post-COVID periods. This research was undertaken to evaluate critical success factors of remote work for bank employees in Gauteng, South Africa to provide conclusive evidence of the most important predictors of remote work success. This will facilitate, decision making for organizations that continue with telecommuting beyond the pandemic period. In this study, remote work success is defined as the ability of an organization tomeet or exceed its business objectives whilst working remotely. A conceptual framework was defined to frame the study and it included organizational, people, Information Communication Technologies (ICTs), location and environmental factors. Then a quantitative post-positivism research methodology was applied to further analyze each of the proposed critical success factors of telework. This study was conducted in the field of Information Systems and Technology, and it sought to understand the social phenomenon of employee perceptions of what they considered critical success factors of remote work. Therefore, the selected structured quantitative research approach was deemed suitable. The data collection for the study was conducted using a closed-ended electronic questionnaire. The sample population of this study consisted of 150 remote-working bank employees. Empirical evidence from statistical tests confirmed that all the proposed critical success factors suggested in the conceptual framework of this research were significant predictors of successful remote working except for organizational factors. The people factors were identified as the greatest predictor of remote working success. The research outcomes also indicated that even though the surveyed respondents had a great preference for remote work, they sometimes wanted to work from the office location. Despite the research outcomes demonstrating that employees perceived remote work as more successful and productive than working from the office. There were slight differences in significant agreements across the sample population demographics such as gender, marital status, ethnicity, and age. In conclusion, the research found that the most critical success factor of remote working was employees of the organization. The research outcomes demonstrated that people factors were instrumental to the success of remote working organizations. Provided the people felt empowered with adequate telecommuting IT tools, remote work policies and management support.
An evaluation of the Russell High School's library collection in meeting the curricula needs of learners.
(2001) Atagana, Favour Ogochukwu.; Kaniki, Andrew M.
The purpose of the dissertation was to evaluate the Russell High School library collection in meeting the curricula needs of learners. A study population consisting of 150 learners, 13 teachers, the librarian and Principal was surveyed by means of questionnaire and interview. Three types of questionnaires were used, one each for the learners, the teachers and the librarian. The Principal's interview was based on a checklist. Results were discussed in terms of frequencies and cross-tabulations of responses were made. Results are graphically displayed in the form of tables, pie charts and bar charts. The present situation of the library and its problems are discussed with regard to resources, the availability and suitability of the present collection, types of materials used, and satisfaction with the library by users as well as encouragement from teachers and the librarian to learners in the use of the library. The discussion was situated within the current requirements of Outcomes-Based Education as guided by Curriculum 2005 and 21. The study findings indicated that learners and teachers were satisfied with the library stock although a need for books, especially new titles, was identified. Learners and teachers felt that more books and better infrastructure for example, computers, television sets, and more space were needed. It was also revealed, however, that the budget was severely limited. These findings are discussed within the framework provided by a review of international, African and local school libraries. Recommendations for possible future services are made in the light of this discussion.
An evaluative study of the psychology collection at the University of Transkei.
(1997) Breakfast, Kholeka.; Kaniki, Andrew M.
The study focused on the evaluation of the psychology book collection at UNITRA library. In particular, the study investigated the adequacy of the psychology book collection in terms of accessibility, availability, and pertinence. A sample of 264 respondents was selected from a population of 1123 students. A proportionate random sampling was used to select respondents from each stratum. The survey method was used, and questionnaires were administered to the sample of 1995 registered psychology students at UNITRA from Year 1 to Honours level. The questionnaire focused on the research questions, relating to accessibility , availability, and pertinence of the psychology collection. The data was analysed by means of a statistical package, SAS. The results were interpreted in relation to the variables. The findings revealed that accessibility and availability were affected by: the attendance of the first library orientation programme which is usually offered at the beginning of the year; the availability of library services at high school; the number of copies of the same title in the library; library opening hours; attitude of the librarians; procedure for locating books; number of borrower cards; and the age of books in the library. The identification of entries representing books on the catalogue, and the location of books on the shelves were found to be easier for those users who had attended library orientation and those who had libraries at their high school. It was recommended that lecturers and librarians should encourage students to also use the subject catalogue in order to get more books on the same subject. A number of other recommendations were suggested taken from the findings and other authorities on the subject to improve the accessibility, availability and pertinence of the psychology collection. The development of a written collection development policy would make the implementation of the above recommendations easier.
An exploratory study of the information needs of secondary school students in MdantsaneTownship, Eastern Cape.
(1999) Rubushe, Bulewa Promotia.; Radebe, Thulisile Eddista.; Stilwell, Christine.
The Study investigates the information needs of high School students in the Mdantsane Township,in the Eastern Cape and is based on the view that high School Students have information needs other than their School-related needs.The building of a Library in the Township made the investigation of this substantial group's,information needs was important in establishing what sort of information service was required.
Faith-based collections at African Enterprise: a case study of the Michael Cassidy collection.
(2023) Nawe, Takatso Beverly.; Garaba, Francis.
This study investigated the management of African Enterprise's (AE) faith-based collections and Michael Cassidy's (MC) personal papers. It explored the scarcity of literature on faith-based organisations as well as looked into challenges experienced by AE in managing and preserving its collections. It tackled issues of privacy, copyright, and ethical issues in private papers. The collection of data was conducted through semi-structured interviews and was analysed inductively. Moreover, this study revealed that the AE building is not suitable for the preservation of archival materials. The National Archives et al (2010) recommended then that repositories of faith-based collections should ensure that personal papers survive from other religious traditions where individuals do keep material of a personal nature without there being any obvious long-term homes for them. It is therefore incumbent as noted by Choi and Nilson (2019), that archivists and religious leaders should develop strategies on how to preserve these hidden and endangered materials and make them accessible when needed. As AE does not have standard systems in place to effectively manage archival collections, it therefore found AE to not have a system guarding the privacy, legal, and ethical matters that affect access to and use of Cassidy's personal papers. There are no resources in existence to guide the identification of sensitive materials. It also revealed his wish to have his private papers to be housed at AE. In addition, this study then made recommendations for a purpose-built archive building and the development of policies. It also advocated for further research on faith-based collections to contribute to scholarship.
First level library and/or information science qualifications at South African universities and technikons : a comparative study of curricula.
(2002) Raju, Jayarani.; Kaniki, Andrew M.
The general purpose of the research was to do a comparative study of first level library and/or information science (LIS) qualifications offered at South African universities and technikons. These qualifications included the National Diploma: Library and Information Studies (ND: LIS), the Bachelor of Technology: Library and Information Studies (B.Tech.(LIS)), the Post-graduate Diploma in Library and/or Information Science and the Bachelor of Library and Information Science (B.Bibl.) or equivalent four-year university degree. Self-administered questionnaires were used to survey the views of employers, past students and educators in the LIS field regarding these qualifications and their relevance to the LIS services work environment. Descriptive statistics as well as content analysis were used to analyse the data collected. Discussion of findings based on analysis of data and in the context of related literature, resulted in a number of conclusions. The study supports the view that general education as provided by a university bachelor's degree distinguishes between professional and paraprofessional LIS education and training. The study confirms that the university Post-graduate Diploma in Library and/or Information Science and the B.Bibl. (or equivalent four-year university degree) are established professional LIS qualifications in South Africa. While the technikon ND: LIS is generally viewed as a paraprofessional qualification, LIS services employers are not using this qualification in its paraprofessional context with paraprofessional post designations and career progressions. The technikon B.Tech.(LIS) cannot be viewed as a professional LIS qualification as it lacks general education. Furthermore, it is a qualification in the hierarchy of paraprofessional LIS qualifications that runs parallel to the professional LIS career path and thus the B.Tech.(LIS) is not a step in the direction of LIS professionalism. It is part of an alternative career direction. A further conclusion is that in view of the traditional purpose of technikon education and training vis-a-vis university education and training, limited general education and not extended general education is necessary in the technikon LIS curriculum. The study suggests that the professional LIS body, educators, employers and graduates and diplomates in the LIS field in South Africa have specific roles to play in ensuring understanding that LIS professionalism and paraprofessionalism are alternative or parallel career paths each with its own career progressions and with valuable roles to play in LIS services. However, there should be possibilities for articulation between LIS professionalism and paraprofessionalism at the education and training level.
The impact of the Economic Structural Adjustment Programme on small and medium-sized special libraries in Zimbabwe.
(1995) Chanetsa, Bernadette.; Verbeek, Jennifer Ann.
Abstract available in PDF.

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