African Journals Online
University of Dar es Salaam Library Journal

Volume 5, Number 1 2003
Abstracts

TOWARDS BUILDING MODERN UNIVERSITIES IN TANZANIA: THE ROLE OF ELECTRONIC RESOURCE SHARING NETWORKS IN TEACHING, LEARNING AND RESEARCH

Dr. Elizabeth Kiondo

Abstract

This paper will examine the role of joint electronic resource sharing networks in supporting the key mission of Tanzanian Universities by paying particular attention to the situation in Tanzania. The paper will investigate the problem of institutional collaboration in Tanzania to identify what factors have hitherto hindered effective and formal collaboration among Tanzanian academic libraries. It will then examine whether current environment characterised by liberalised education system, IT developments and applications, globalisation and internationalisation of higher education can act as a catalyst for future institutional collaboration. The role of electronic resource sharing networks and their potential for providing cost effective services and building of modern Universities in Tanzania will be discussed. Experiences from European, American and South African networks will be highlighted and lessons drawn. The main argument of the paper is that the future lies in collaboration rather than isolation. In conclusion the paper will emphasise the importance of joint academic resource sharing networks among Tanzanian academic libraries. It will reiterate the importance of building institutional mechanisms and structures for supporting such initiatives. In addition, institutional support in building and nurturing electronic resources sharing networks is of critical importance for sustainability.

ACCESSING INFORMATION TO RURAL COMMUNITIES: CASE STUDIES OF SELECTED TELECENTRES IN UGANDA

Sarah Kaddu

Abstract

There is increasing recognition that "Information is Power" and consequently, playing a vital role in development. The increasing use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) has made possible new methods to deliver services through Telecentres. In view of this, access to information has the potential to contribute to poverty alleviation, create employment opportunities and, playing a central role in decision making. Community leaders seek information to resolve and manage conflicts; information on market demands and availability of commodities drive community business activities; and quite often, quick communication of information is essential among family members on the state of health of relatives. Community access to information and communication facilities is, therefore, a basic need. This paper defines Telecentres, reviews Information Communication Technologies, and gives an overview of selected Telecentres in Uganda and their users. It concludes with discussing challenges and possible solutions.

PERSONS WITH DISABILITY BILL 2002 AND ITS IMPLICATIONS TO THE PROVISION OF LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SERVICES TO THE VISUALLY HANDICAPPED PERSONS IN KENYAN LEARNING INSTITUTIONS

Raymond Euppa Ochoggia

Abstract.

The paper is a response to Persons with Disabilities Bill 2000 which is an attempt by the Kenyan Government top provide disabled people with enabling environment to achieve their full potential and protect them from undue discrimination. The term disability as used in the context of the bill is defined. Specific provisions in the bill that may have effect on the provision of library and information services to disabled students in Kenya are identified and interpretations given where possible. The paper concludes that the bill is likely to open up educational opportunities for the visual handicapped by lessening previous existing obstacles.

AN APPRAISAL OF LEGAL DEPOSIT LAWS IN TANZANIA

Athumani S. Samzugi

Abstract

This paper addresses issues concerning legal deposit laws of Tanzania. Currently under the existing legislation two libraries have been accorded a status of legal deposit of the country’s national heritage. However, one wonders whether it is reasonable to place all national heritages in two places only. The paper argues further that, a vast country like Tanzania needs to have national heritage in various geographical locations to enable the majority of its people to have access to such information. This paper highlights and makes an appraisal of the current position of legal deposit in the country. It draws experiences from other countries with reference to legislation on such deposits and concludes with recommendations on how to improve their scope of operation.

PROBLEMS OF MANAGING SEMI-ACTIVE RECORDS IN INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING: THE CASE OF UNIVERSITY OF DAR ES SALAAM

Evans Wema

Abstract

This paper discuses problems of managing university records by paying much attention to difficulties in managing semi-current records which, according to records management processes, are supposed to be kept in a records center. Due to absence of this facility, the congested and poorly organized records in university registries in both, the main registry and departmental ones, organizing, storing and retrieving information from these records is a serious problem. The paper suggests several ways of solving the problem. One being that the university establishes a records center whose main purpose will be to house inactive or semi-active records. By so doing, these records will be easily retrieved for occasional use or be kept there pending their ultimate destruction or transfer to archival storage. Another way is by establishing an effective records management program that will provide effective ways of managing records throughout their life cycle. Several examples of records centers in other universities and how efficiently they work have been highlighted.

MEETING INFORMATION NEEDS OF THE GROWING UNIVERSITY POPULATION IN THE 21^st CENTURY: CASE OF SOKOINE NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL LIBRARY

Tumsifu Elly

Abstract

Most Tanzanian universities are expanding in terms of students and staff as well as increased subject areas in the curriculum. However, few trained information specialists, inadequate information infrastructures and funds characterize most libraries in the country. At the same time the majority of the patrons are not information literate, lack the ability to select, reject and use information using the appropriate information technologies .The information revolutions taking place in 21^st century need to be accommodated to ensure that quality and value added information is made available to or is accessed by the patrons. This paper addresses these issues and recommends some ways to manage information explosion. Some issues have been elaborated using Sokoine National Agricultural Library (SNAL ) current situation. It suggests ways of recruiting information professionals training and retraining them so that the capacity to offer quality and required information is attained. Different approaches to enhance library services in the academic circles are recommended.

AFRICAN CHILDREN’S LITERATURE: A SCHOLAR’S GUIDE

Lillian Temu Osaki

Abstract

African children’s books remain unparalleled in their ability to nurture the imagination and to provide relevant instruction and delight to the African child. Despite this truth, little research has been done on African literature, its nature, form and source of materials. This paper provides a selected check list of words by African children’s literature authors: Aardema, Appiah, Arnott, Asare, Kimenye, Meniru, Mollel, Odaga and Onadipe. It will serve as a useful starting point to scholars interested in studying and doing research on African children’s literature.