RE-ENGINEERING UNIVERSITY LIBRARY SERVICES WITH EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES IN KENYA: PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES

UBAGA E., KIARIE G., ROTICH K.

UBAGA E., KIARIE G., ROTICH K. Daystar University, KENYA ,Egerton University, KENYA

Keywords: Emerging Technologies, Library Services, Library Automation, University Libraries

Abstract

The current wave of advancements in technology has significantly altered the quality of services provided by university libraries, as well as the expectations that society has of them. Consequently, if university libraries don't start utilizing emerging technologies to enhance delivery of information and services, they risk becoming obsolete in the twenty-first century. It is against this background that this paper examines prospects and challenges associated with use of emerging technologies by university libraries in Kenya. By studying emerging technologies and their application in university libraries, librarians in Kenya will be able to foster new ways of service delivery which will help them to maintain their competitiveness in drawing and retaining patrons. This article reviews previous studies, explores various emerging technologies available in Kenya, how they can be utilized by university libraries and the challenges arising from their implementation. Results show that there are many opportunities for improving service delivery in Kenyan university libraries through emerging technologies such as mobile technologies, Instant Messaging, QR Code, mobile Apps, among others. However, although Kenyan university libraries are making efforts towards adopting emerging technologies for service delivery, the rate of adoption is still slow, and the variety of technologies being adopted is still narrow in comparison to the options available. This has been attributed to challenges such as lack of ICT skills, limitation of funds, policies, support from top management, as well as power outage, poor attitude of library staff and poor infrastructure. The study recommends that university libraries in Kenya should adopt emerging technologies in order to deliver exceptional services. Additionally, training of library staff, improving ICT infrastructure and top organization support amongst other factors should be put in place in order to enhance adoption of emerging technologies.