The Role of Academic Libraries in Facilitating Institutional Transformation Programmes: The Case of Two Comstituent Colleges of the University Of Dar es salaam

Abstract

This paper discusses the implications of the University of Dar es Salaam Institutional Transformation Programme (ITP) on information services provision at Muhimbili University College of Health Sciences (MUCHS) and University College of Lands and Architectural Studies (UCLAS) libraries. The paper is based on a Master's dissertation whose objective was to determine the extent to which the two College libraries (MUCHS and UCLAS) were equipped to meet the challenges of Institutional Transformation Programme - UDSM 2000. Questionnaires and interview guides were used to collect data. The findings of the study established that ITP has raised new demands and challenges in terms of information services provision, including ICT facilities, information retrieval tools and the changing role of librarians. The study notes that the two libraries were not adequately equipped to meet the challenges. Problems noted include technological and resource based ones. The study recommends the colleges to clearly understand the implications of ITP to their libraries and give the necessary support. They should ensure that the library management is empowered to make decisions and implement their programmes on time.