The Emerging Role Of Librarians In A Digital Environment: A Case Of The University Of Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta Memorial Library

Abstract

We live in an environment characterized by constant access to online information and extensive automation of services. It is an information age that has given rise to a knowledge-based society fuelled by advances in technology. The aim of this study was to investigate the emerging role of librarians and information professionals in a digital environment at the Jomo Kenyatta Memorial Library, University of Nairobi. The objectives of this study were to examine the adoption of technology in the provision of library services at the University of Nairobi, Jomo Kenyatta Memorial Library; to examine the changing needs of library users in the digital environment, to explore the emerging role of librarians in a digital environment, and to propose possible steps the library management can take toward the creation of new ICT enabled roles at the Jomo Kenyatta Memorial Library. The theoretical framework guiding this study was the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). The participating respondents comprised of members of staff working at the various library service points and student library users. The study was both qualitative and quantitative, with the data being collected through the circulation of questionnaires among the library staff and students. The study used systematic sampling and non-probability convenience sampling to select the respondents, ensuring comprehensive representation of the target population. The study underscored the necessity for librarians to embrace emerging trends in the profession and the specialized roles that result from interacting with and dispensing services in a digital environment. The study’s findings showed that 65% of respondents strongly agreed that knowledgeable and competent staff were an important factor to delivering quality services. Additionally, it also found that 79% strongly supported the idea that librarians in specialized ICT related roles could help to address user needs and expectations. The study will benefit academic libraries, the library professionals that oversee their operations and the patrons who frequent the libraries for information services