Status and challenges of secondary school libraries in Tanzania: case study of Dar es Salaam Region
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Date
2010
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Publisher
University of Dar es Salaam
Abstract
This study investigated the status and challenges of school libraries in Tanzania. A combination of methods were used to collect data for this survey including a structured and standardized questionnaire, with both open and close ended questions complemented by face to face interviews and observations. 59 randomly and purposively selected respondents participated in this study. Key findings revealed that all the schools surveyed had libraries but they poorly stocked and therefore are not effectively utilized by students and teachers in teaching and learning process. This is also attributed to lack of current and relevant textbooks, computers, poor library administration, lack of reading space, lack of user education on library use, lack of priority to library services. Other set backs include noise from outside, out dated textbooks, lack of library catalogue, poor organization of library materials, inadequate library staff and inadequate library budgets. The study recommends the following: School libraries should be improved and stocked with current and relevant reading materials and reference books. Each school should employ a qualified librarian and reading space and opening hours should be increased. Moreover, the study recommends that parents should contribute to a library fund and students should be taught library education in order to ensure effective use of library resources including electronic resources. The study also recommends that the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training (MOEVT) should allocate adequate funds for the development of school libraries and heads of the school should monitor library usage.
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Keywords
School libraries, Dar es Salaam region, Tanzania
Citation
Mtagwa, N. J (2010) Status and challenges of secondary school libraries in Tanzania: case study of Dar es Salaam Region. Master dissertation, University of Dar es Salaam. Available at http://41.86.178.3/internetserver3.1.2/detail.aspx