Academic Library Development in Ghana: Top Managers' Perspectives
Abstract
The views of 21 academic librarians were sought in a qualitative study to identify the
main issues that would shape the development of academic libraries in Ghana in the
early years of the millennium. The Grounded Theory Approach used for data collection
and analysis. revealed five main categories as the main concerns namely: strategic
planning. information technology. service development. library funding. human and
physical resource development and organisational climate. 1t is concluded that academic
librarianship in Ghana needs a completely new definition and redirection. and academic
libraries are urged to show an intense commitment to the highest levels of service. team
work and demand-led acquisition.
Introduction
With an enormous increase in student numbers without corresponding increases in
funding, academic libraries have been under several pressures over the last decade to
manage their libraries effectively and efficiently. They are also increasingly required to
extend or supplement services by the use of electronic technology. Academic librarians
have to think of their plans with a view to redefining some of the traditional concepts of
academic Iibrarianship. This study therefore sought the views of some seasoned
academic librarians in Ghana on issues concerning academic libraries for the new
millennium.
Publisher
Unversity of Nairobi