Factors constraining automation of public libraries in Tanzania: a case study of the National Central Library Dar es Salaam

This study has examined factors deterring automation at Tanzania Library Services Board (TLSB) and full and rapid automation of the National Central Library. It also examined benefits of automated library systems. Combination of methods used include: questionnaires, face-to-face interviews and observations. Sixty randomly and purposively selected respondents participated in this study. Major findings of this study revealed that automation of TLSB library systems is constrained by a number of factors including: lack of financial resources, lack of trained personnel, and lack of computers; management apathy, lack of Information Technology (IT) plan/policy, lack of initiative and lack of knowledge on the role of IT in development and its benefit potentials. In view of this, it is strongly recommended that TLSB should prepare an IT policy/plan to guide automation of its functions. In addition, TLSB should mobilize adequate financial resources from donors, government and the local private sector to support its automation, plan, and staff training and purchasing hardware and software applications. Furthermore, it is recommended that TLSB should network with other automated libraries so as to learn from their experiences.