Provision of access to information in academic libraries in Southern Africa
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Date
2011
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Abstract
Information and communications technology (ICT) makes remote access to information possible. Resource sharing facilitates the provision of access to information sources not owned by an individual library
Case studies were conducted at the University of South Africa and University of Namibia libraries to explore the provision of access to information in academic libraries in southern Africa through collection development, resource sharing and acquiring remote access to electronic resources through ICT facilities
It was found that both libraries have recently adapted their collection development policies to accommodate electronic resources although their budgets did not increase accordingly. The recruitment of ICT knowledgeable staff tends to be a problem at both libraries. Resources are shared via interlending and document supply with Unisa Library as a model in southern Africa. Both libraries add their holdings to the national bibliographies and Sabinet and are members of GAELIC. However, the UNAM library is a passive partner. A consortium within Namibia's borders is suggested to improve resource sharing
Description
submitted in accordance with the requirements for the degree of Master of Information Science at the University of South Africa
Keywords
Library cooperation, Electronic information resources, Electronic management, Collection Development Libraries, Information Technology