An information needs assessment in Oribi Village, Pietermaritzburg

Abstract

The article describes a study which accessed the information needs of some of the residents of Oribi Village, Pietermaritzburg, using the critical incident approach. The issues faced by people and the way information assisted them in dealing with these issues depended to a large degree on their background and on what resources of information they had access to. Thus, the context and demographics of the community were also examined. The results of the study indicated a significant need for information concerning fundamental issues such as housing, health and education. Finally, a few suggestions are made as to ways to improve the information availability and general information literacy of Oribi Village.


Innovation No.29 2004: 13-23