Potential For Resource Sharing Among Academic Libraries In Tanzania: a Case Stud of University of Dar Es Salaam and Mzumbe University

The study examined the potential for resource sharing among academic libraries in Tanzania, specifically at the Universities of Mzumbe in Morogoro and Dar es Salaam Libraries. It focused on potential areas for sharing library resources, the role of ICT in resource sharing, challenges facing existing resources sharing initiatives and recommendations for effective utilization of resource sharing. The research employed both qualitative and quantitative research design. The selection of the sample was purposive for library staff and accidental or convenient for Library users. Questionnaires, interviews observation and documentary review were used to collect data. The findings of this study revealed that there is potential for resource sharing among academic libraries due to the facts that there is the reduction in the library budget each year, an increase in the number of the user and the expectations of user as well as development in information and communication technology. The study further revealed the challenges facing existing resource sharing initiatives, such as inability of a written policy relating to resource sharing inadequate funds, inadequate number of computers connected to internet as well as an online catalogue at the Mzumbe University Library not being accessible outside the campus. Based on the findings the suggestions given were the formulation of a policy relating to resources sharing, allocating enough funds to libraries, increasing the number of computers connected to the internet educating both the management of the universities and librarians on the importance of sharing resources and increasing the number of print and electronic information resources.