African Journals Online
University of Dar es Salaam Library Journal

Volume 4 Numbers 1 and 2 2002

ABSTRACTS

WITHER SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNOLOGICAL INFORMATION NETWORK IN TANZANIA: STATUS AND PROSPECTS OF TANISSAT

Amina M.M. Kabudi

ABSTRACT

Networking among libraries and information centres is inevitable in modern world, as it is not possible to be self-sufficient in every thing. This article sets out to make an analysis of Tanzania’s efforts at establishing a network for scientific and technological information. The paper discusses the Tanzania National System for Science and Technology (TANISSAT) under the Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH). TANISSAT which began as an ambitious project has since its inception been dodged by a number of problems and constraints that have affected its full operationalization. The Paper moots proposals for the way forward in ensuring creation of a viable, effective, efficient and sustainable network.

FROM LIBRARIES TO COMMUNITY INFORMATION RESOURCE CENTRES (CIRCS)? RATIONALE AND IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROVISION OF INFORMATION TO COMMUNITIES IN TANZANIA

Desdery R. M. Katundu and Malima P. Nyerembe

ABSTRACT

The failure of the public library model to cater for the increasing information needs of the Tanzanian communities necessitates an exploration for the alternative information delivery system/model that is likely to take on board even those of a larger rural-based Tanzanian community. This paper is therefore a critical examination of how the public library model in Tanzania has been operationalizing and its effectiveness in satisfying the information needs of the Tanzanian community. The basic argument is that given the ‘alien’ nature of library model, it is still not suitable to Tanzania’s social and economic environment basing on the fact that because the majority of Tanzanian community is rural-based, the ‘library model’ was equally required to reorient its information services to where the majority of people live. While examining these issues, an alternative model capable of reorienting its information services to the majority of Tanzanians is also proposed.

MARKETING LIBRARY SERVICES IN ACADEMIC LIBRARIES: A TOOL FOR SURVIVAL IN THE 21st CENTURY
Mugyabuso J. F. Lwehabura, Frankwell. W. Dulle and Revocatus T. Mulimila

ABSTRACT

This article discusses the concept of marketing library and information services as an important library activity. It also stresses the need for librarians and information specialists especially those in academic libraries in developing countries to become proactive and to take marketing as a serious and obligatory library function. With the emergence of new information providers and diverse avenues that enable information users/seekers to access information even outside library premises, the authors argue that it is very likely librarians with lose potential clients. Marketing of library services is therefore considered to be a tool that can be used by librarians to fight and compete and also attract both new customers and old library users. The article also suggests a number of media that can be used to market library services in academic libraries.

DUAL RESPONSIBILITY OF MANAGING STRESS, EUSTRESS, DISTRESS,

RUST-OUT AND BURN-OUT IN LIBRARIES

Julita Nawe

ABSTRACT

This paper highlights the causes and symptoms of stress, eustress, distress, rust-out and burnout. Suggestions on what both individuals and organizations can do to manage them are given. The paper recommends continual development of one’s awareness as one of the most important general stress-management strategies regarding the type and mix of resources one needs for coping with one’s source of stressors, and an organization may help towards achieving these goals by providing training programmes and counseling services.

INFORMATION SEEKING BEHAVOUR OF LIBRARY USERS IN A CHANGING LIBRARY ENVIRONMENT: THE CASE OF FACULTY OF LAW STAFF MEMBERS, UNIVERSITY OF DAR ES SALAAM

Jangawe Msuya

ABSTRACT

This study was conducted to examine the information-seeking behavior of academic members of staff of the Faculty of Law, University of Dar Es Salaam. The objective of the study was to find out how staff seek information in the light of the changes introduced in the library, particularly the introduction of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and re-organization of the library. Data collection methods were questionnaire and interview. The study revealed that 50% of the Faculty of Law staff use the manual catalogue in searching information instead of computerized catalogue. In addition, 36.4% were not aware that they could search library catalogue while at their offices. The study found that Law Reports and legislation are the most consulted type of materials and that the staff have other formal and informal sources of information apart from the University library. The study recommends increased sensitization of library users on the range of new services offered by the library and intensification of user training, including outreach programs.

TANZANIA’S 2002 RECORDS AND ARCHIVES MANAGEMENT ACT:

 A CRITICAL APPRAISAL
Desdery R.M.Katundu

ABSTRACT

The paper critically assesses the strengths and weaknesses of the Tanzania’s Records and Archives Management Act of 2002. The Act repeals the 1931 Records Disposal Ordinance 9 (Cap.9), the 1965 National Archives Act no. 33 and the Presidential Circular no.7 of 1963 on the Care and Disposal of Public Records. It argues that the Act is progressive and if effectively implemented can improve the management of and access to public records in Tanzania. However, some critical areas that need serious revisiting include supporting the Act with adequate resources, training, provisions on electronic records and records created by Union Government. The paper recommends facilitation of ample resources, training on the Act, reduction of power of director of the Records and Archives Management Division, inclusion of provisions on electronic records, provisions for the records created by the Union Government and, reduction of 30 year period for access to some of the records.

REVIEW OF THE STATE OF RESEARCH METHODOLOGY IN AFRICAN LIBRARIANSHIP

Paul Manda

ABSTRACT

The paper reviews of the state of research methodology in African Librarianship. The data for the paper is based on the content analysis of journal articles published in the African Journal of Library, Archives and Information Science between 1991 and 1999. The study has revealed major weaknesses in research methodologies in African Librarianship. Among the major shortcomings are researches not being grounded on theory and the findings having no bearing on theory construction. Additionally, operational definitions of underlying concepts or variables are not provided. The study did not reveal a clear pattern of development towards either qualitative or quantitative methodology although there is a total dependence on the questionnaire for data collection. Research in African Librarianship is at its weakest in sampling and data analysis phases. Studies employ crude descriptions and sampling strategies. The individual is the major unit of analysis. Overall, the study concludes that quality of research methodology and consequently the entire research process in African Librarianship requires major improvements.

INTRINSIC AND EXTRINSIC MOTIVATION IN THE SELECTION AND USE OF COMMUNICATION MEDIA

Lufumbi J. Mwaipopo

ABSTRACT

The ongoing revolution in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is necessitating a shift in emphasis from the traditional media to the use of multi-media interactive systems by business communicators, academics, and many professional vocations. In many areas that involve ICT use, individuals may be forced to adopt these systems as a matter of necessity. Basing on existing literature, this paper discusses the motives behind media selection and use by individuals targeted by business communicators or academics. A psychological perspective is considered that applies intrinsic and extrinsic motivational concepts to communication phenomena. The paper also tries to develop an analytical understanding of human communication-related behavior with respect to the two types of motives. Proposals are also put forward to communication policy makers and implementers in developing countries to develop appropriate techniques for motivating their targeted clients to engage themselves more actively in communication experiences involving the use of Internet-based ICTs.