Examining the Contribution of Libraries in Promoting Use of Open Government Data in Kenya: Case of the University of Nairobi Library

Abstract

Open Government Data initiatives have gained momentum in many parts of the World with key emphasis being on promoting transparency and enhancing public participation in governance. Central to this tremendous development is the library which has enabled governments and business entities to understand how they can utilize available data. This study examined the contribution of libraries in promoting use of open government data in Kenya by exploring how the University of Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta Memorial library and Mahatma Gandhi Graduate library had promoted use of open government data. The study was guided by key objectives which were to: Evaluate the contributions of the library in promoting open data initiatives in Kenya, assess how varying levels of skills on data literacy and media literacy among university students has affected the use of open government data, find out if the inequality in internet connection in libraries had affected utilization of open government data and services, examine application of ICT tools in libraries in accelerating utilization of open government data and lastly develop a suitable conceptual framework for supporting use of open government data in Kenya. Out of the 160 questionnaires distributed to respondents, (137) questionnaires comprising (121) for university students and (16) for middle-level library employees were returned for analysis. Additionally, two (2) library employees participated in direct personal interview. Qualitative data was collected by use of interviews while quantitative data was collected by use of questionnaires. Qualitative data was analyzed through descriptive words/text while quantitative data was presented through tables, graphs, pie charts and bar graphs. The study found out that the library had significantly contributed to increased use of open government data in Kenya. Additionally, the study revealed a gap in the training of media literacy and data literacy at the University of Nairobi. The study recommended increased collaborations between the university library and other stakeholders to accelerate use of open government data among other recommendations. Lastly, the study developed a suitable conceptual framework for promoting use of open government data in Kenya.