Evaluation of Kyambogo University Library user education program

Abstract

Library user education is vital for empowering users with the skills to access and use information resources effectively. Such programs enable lifelong learning and information literacy, essential for academic, professional, and personal success. The study aimed to evaluate the Kyambogo University Library user education program. The objectives of the study were to: establish the current components of the library user education program of Kyambogo University library; identify the methods of the library user education program adopted by Kyambogo University library; examine the contribution of the current library user education program to access and utilisation of information resources offered by Kyambogo university library; establish the setbacks faced by the library staff in conducting library user education program. The study adopted a case study research design and a mixed-method approach, involving questionnaires, interviews, and document review. The findings identified orientation, bibliographic instruction, and information literacy as the main components of the library user education program at Kyambogo University. Library tours, user guides, and the library website were found to be the primary methods of delivering user education. The study findings revealed that user education programs play a significant role in enhancing students’ abilities to navigate the library catalogue, locate resources, evaluate information sources, and employ search strategies. Despite the positive contributions, the study discovered that undergraduate students displayed subpar competency in library basic skills and knowledge. Challenges faced by library staff included inadequate facilities, low student attendance, limited session durations, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The study concluded by recommending regular program evaluations to adapt to evolving needs and technology, incorporating immersive technologies for virtual tours, and developing user-friendly mobile apps. Collaborations with faculties to integrate information literacy into assignments to enhance effectiveness, address program evaluation, and incorporate user education policy