Title:
QUALITY OF LIBRARY RESOURCES AT ZIMBABWE OPEN UNIVERSITY: A CASE STUDY OF MASHONALAND EAST REGIONAL CENTRE.

Authors:
Nyenya Trust, Kandira Nobbie

Volume - 2 Issue - 2, Pages - 2539-2552

Abstract:
This descriptive research was conducted to describe the quality of library resources at the Zimbabwe Open University. The method provided the opportunity to gather both quantitative and qualitative data so as to describe (Glass and Hopkins 1984) the quality of library resources in the most effective manner. The questionnaire to elicit data from a sample of 40 out of 100. The sample consisted of 6 RPCs, 1 library assistant and 33 students. The targeted population was stratified into three main sub-groups; registered students, library assistants and RPCs. Then, selection of the sample from each sub-group was subjected to simple random sampling. It can be concluded that the major constraints affecting the use of library resources were: inadequate reading materials and lack of current library materials, and convenience of the library location to the users. It can be also concluded that most of the open and distance learning students use electronic resources than hard copies. On account of the above conclusions, the researcher recommends the following: There is need to improve on provision of current and adequate library resources such as journals, textbooks, reference materials, and newspapers, longer opening hours for readers without closing library on weekends and public holidays to enable library users to use the library efficiently. The region should ensure that electronic resources are readily accessible. The region should train new students in accessing electronic resources as they are the most commonly used resources by students. The University should also ensure that new students access communication tools that enable them to access electronic resources.

Cite this Article:

[Trust, Nyenya, and Kandira Nobbie. "QUALITY OF LIBRARY RESOURCES AT ZIMBABWE OPEN UNIVERSITY: A CASE STUDY OF MASHONALAND EAST REGIONAL CENTRE." International Journal of Social Science & Economic Research 2.2 (2017): 2539-552. ]