Meeting information needs of the growing university population in the 21st century: case of Sokoine National Agricultural Library

Abstract

Most Tanzanian universities are expanding in terms of students and staff as well as increased subject areas in the curriculum. However, few trained information specialists, inadequate information infrastructures and funds characterize most libraries in the country. At the same time the majority of the patrons are not information literate, lack the ability to select, reject and use information using the appropriate information technologies .The information revolutions taking place in 21st century need to be accommodated to ensure that quality and value added information is made available to or is accessed by the patrons. This paper addresses these issues and recommends some ways to manage information explosion. Some issues have been elaborated using Sokoine National Agricultural Library (SNAL ) current situation. It suggests ways of recruiting information professionals training and retraining them so that the capacity to offer quality and required information is attained. Different approaches to enhance library services in the academic circles are recommended.


(University of Dar es Salaam Library Journal: 2003 5(1): 57-66)