Library and information services provision for people with visual impairment in selected university and public libraries in Tanzania

The research investigated the provision of Library and Information Services to people with visual impairment in selected University and Public Libraries in Tanzania. The purpose of this research was to investigate the provision of library and information services to people with Visual impairment in Tanzania. The study largely employed the qualitative approach. The selection of the sample libraries was purposive. Data for the study was collected through questionnaires, face-to-face in-depth interview, and participant observation. Analysis of data employed descriptive and quantitative techniques. A survey was made of three libraries that provide services to people with visual impairment. These libraries are the University of Dar es Salaam library, the Open University of Tanzania Library and Tanzania Library Services. A questionnaire was given to library staff and service providers. Additionally, visits were made to these three libraries with their respective directors as well as users with visual impairment who were present at the time of the visit. Findings revealed that these libraries are not in a position to provide the best library and information services to people with visual impairment. It was seen that there are still many things to implement, correct and improve. It is considered that services provided in these libraries are a possible contributor to the isolation and confinement of people with visual impairment. For this reason, library and information services should be collective to ensure access to library and information services for people with visual impairment, thus ensuring library and information services for everyone.