Expectations of academics from the 21st century academic library Experiences from Zimbabwe

Abstract

The study investigated the needs and expectations of academics from two academic libraries. To explore this broad question, the study sought to determine the scholarly communication, research data management, collaboration, teaching and learning, and new pedagogical needs and expectations of academics. The study also identified the social web tools used by academics for maintaining their research. The literature review is anchored in the study’s objectives. A quantitative approach that deployed a web-based questionnaire is adopted. Data was collected from a combined sample of 227 academics and the response rate was 60%. The findings reinforce established studies by highlighting that academics expect their libraries to provide scholarly communication support, online information literacy sessions, teaching and learning support, and co-hosting workshops, co-teaching information literacy, co-deploying new technologies and co-publishing. In spite of these expectations, the Zimbabwean academic library is yet to fulfil its expected role of providing the necessary services and resources to academics. It is recommended that academic libraries in Zimbabwe find the means to address the demands made by academics. Further research should compare the views of both academics and the academic library.