A Comparative Study of Subject Specialisation at the University of Botswana

Abstract

The University of Botswana Library and the Rand University Library have both adopted subject specialisation approach in the delivery of their services. The article seeks to establish similarities and differences in the application of subject specialisation in the two libraries. The findings reveal interesting comparisons from which both can learn and improve on their services. Subject librarians at the University of Botswana spent relatively more time on technical- related functions, whilst the information librarians at Rand Afrikaans concentrate more on customer- centred services. Automation is viewed as an indispensable tool for quality services in both cases. It concludes by highlighting the importance of customer services, which are inherent in subject specialisation.


(African Journal of Library, Archives and Information Science: 2002 11 (2): 139-148)