The Impact of Accreditation Exercise on University Libraries in Kenya

Abstract

This paper is the result of an exploratory study of the impact of accreditation - a process of external quality assurance on university libraries in Kenya. The paper also sought the perceptions of university librarians regarding external quality assurance. The mixed research method was used for data collection. The population of the study constituted all the universities in Kenya recognised by the Commission for Higher Education. The sample frame was drawn from the list of private universities authorised to award degrees in Kenya. Based on the findings from the questionnaire survey, four purposively selected heads of university libraries were interviewed. A total of 22 (92%) out of 24 potential university librarians completed and returned the questionnaires. The results show that university librarians were aware of the purpose of accreditation as it pertains to licensing, while conformity to standards was the greatest strength of accreditation. The university librarians suggested ways of improving the accreditation process. The findings show that there were positive and negative perceptions about the accreditation process. The findings reveal that despite the differences in the universities, majority of the librarians were positive that the accreditation process had brought about significant changes in their institutions. The paper concludes with a number of recommendations.