Evaluation of library services at Bugema University, Uganda

Abstract

This study evaluated library services at Bugema University, Luweero District, Uganda. The objectives of the study were: finding out the existing library services provided at Bugema University for enhanced user satisfaction, evaluate the level of users’ satisfaction of library services at Bugema University, examine the challenges faced in provision of library services by Bugema University library and propose strategies to improve services provided at Bugema University library.The study used mixed method research approach and adopted explanatory sequential design because it helped in identifying and explaining the kinds of factors responsible for the variables under investigation. The target population was 3630 student library users and sample size of 346 was drawn using Krejcie & Morgan (1970) table. Respondents were picked using convenient sampling method where by questionnaires were used to collect quantitative data. for qualitative data, interview guide for key informants and observation guide were used. The study key findings revealed that majority of respondents were female and Bachelor’s students. Findings showed book lending services, reference services, internet services, reprographics services, e- resources, current awareness, research assistance and reading facility services as services provided by the library. Results further revealed library facilities, library support effectiveness and reliability with high user’s satisfaction. Challenges faced by library were outdated resources, lack of qualified staff, poor internet services, lack of library management system, few computers and limited space. Suggested strategies were; having book reserves at school departments, increasing bandwidth for internet to speed and WIFI hot spots on campus, prioritize library needs, train library users, recruit more qualified staff and weed-out all out-dated textbooks. In conclusion, though findings revealed high user satisfaction in library effectiveness and reliability, there are some persistent challenges of poor internet services, limited equipment and space together with lack of poor library management system therefore, the university Administration should give priority in all its requirement as it’s the main source of knowledge in education service provision.