The use of library information resources at Mdumiseni high school, Madadeni circuit, Amajuba district, KwaZulu-Natal.

Abstract

The main purpose of the school library is to support the teaching and learning process through the programmes and other co-curricular activities existing within the school. This study aims to investigate the extent to which the Mdumiseni High School community uses library information resources to meet the needs of the school. The study employed a mixed method approach therefore, both qualitative and quantitative methods were used by conducting interviews and statistical questionnaires to collect data. The study population consisted of teachers and learners. Data presented in this study was collected from teachers and School Management Teams (SMTs), who were interviewed. In addition, Further Education and Training (FET) learners completed questionnaires. The findings revealed that Mdumiseni High School library is underutilised by both teachers and learners because it does not meet the school's information needs. Inadequate collection was one of the things that were mentioned by learners as well as the lack of internet access. Insufficient space and furniture further hinder learners from performing activities in the library. The study also revealed that teachers lack understanding regarding the use of the library and the role they have to play in collaboration with the teacher librarian in order for the library to be functional. Teachers also indicated that they don’t give learners anything that compels them to use the library. The teacher librarian lacks support from the SMT, which adversely affects the utilisation of the library resources. The major cause of the non-utilisation of library information resources is the lack of a national library policy, which affects the establishment and sustainability of libraries. Some of the recommendations made are that the school library has to provide the school community with a variety of resources including digital information resources, in order to meet the demands of the 21st Century. In order for the school to get a desired performance, collaboration between the teacher librarian and teachers is the key. This benefits the child, thus improving their academic performance.