Systematic search and serendipity in Libraries: case study of three libraries in Tanzania

The study investigated systematic search and serendipity in three libraries which are located in Dar es Salaam. The purpose was to find out why some library users do not consult bibliographic tools. Instead they proceed to browse for serendipitous or chance discovery of information. A convenient sample of 100 respondents was drawn. Data was collected through a survey, which involved questionnaires, informal interviews and documentary analysis. The study revealed the following inhibiting factors. First lack of library orientation and inadequate orientation programmes. Second, some bibliographic tools were either not available or familiar to users. Third, failure of bibliographic tools to deliver the required items. Fourth, ease of browsing in small libraries and favorable classified collection for browsing outweighed the effort for systematic search. Fifth, primary and secondary school library users have limited use of bibliographic tools. Sixth, ignorance of alternative search methods discouraged systematic searching. It was finally recommended to reorganize orientation programmes for the convenience of both the user and the library resources. Preferably orientation should be made regularly, so that all library users will conveniently have the opportunity to attend it. And librarians should take any opportunity to influence or design user-friendly systems that will require minimal user orientation. It was further recommended that bibliographic records should aim at locating materials, rather than including unnecessary information. Such details will be obtained when the user is physically brought into contact with the material.