Abstract:
This study examined implications of the University' of Dar es Salaam Institutional
Transformation Programme (ITP) on resources and information services provision at the
University College of Lands and Architectural Studies (UCLAS) and the Muhimbili
University College of Health Sciences (MUCHS) Libraries. First it investigated the new
demands in terms of library/information services, information resources (both print and
non-print), facilities including IT facilities, library space, and human resources, which
emerged as a result of UDSM 2000 Transformation Programme. Challenges facing
librarians and other library staff working at UCLAS and MUCHS libraries in terms of
managing transition from the old set up to the new set up, reorganization and policies,
acquisition of resources and facilities are analyzed. Further, it investigated on the extent
of current information resources, facilities/IT facilities, human resources, library space
and services provision at MUCHS and UCLAS libraries in meeting the information
needs of the new environment. In addition, this work looked at the reasons for shortfalls
~d recommended ways for addressing them.
The study employed case study methods to investigate this problem. Instruments used to
collect data include a self-administered questionnaire, a structured interview schedule,
personal observation, focus group discussion and review of published and unpublished
documents.
The findings of the study have established that University of Dar es salaam 2000
Transformation Programmes (ITP) has raised new demands and challenges as regards to
resources and information services provision. The findings also disclosed that the two
college libraries' information resources/services, staffing, library space, IT facilities and
equipment were inadequate in both quantity and quality to meet the new demands and
challenges.
The study concludes that the absence of a library policy, inadequate funding, inadequate
training to both users and library staff, lack of equipment/access to PC, lack of access to
information resources, inadequate marketing strategies of services/resources, and poor
management of both print and electronic information resources at MUCHS and UCLAS
are the major reasons for the shortfalls in library resources/information services
prOVIsIOn.
The proposed recommendations in this study to be considered include improved library
collectioh, improved human resources capacity, resource mobilisation, allocation of
more funds to libraries, and provision of more ICT facilities. The study also cites
improved marketing of library services/resources, expansion of library building,
improved public relations, networking and co-operation, conducting frequent user needs
assessment and provision of a library policy and user education. Few areas for further
research have been suggested in this study.
