Influence Usage of Media Platforms in Improving Uptake of Academic Library Services in Selected Universities in Kenya

Abstract

The significance of social media in academic library cannot be overstressed. The evolution of Information technology in academic libraries has presented change in users’ views, demands, alterations in library services and changes in library staff functions. Academic Libraries have adopted and embraced various social media tools. However, there seems to be no clear picture on how exactly the social media technologies are being used by staff in the library for academic library services. This study was on utilization of social media platforms in improving uptake of academic library services in selected universities in Kenya. The study was basically narrowed to selected public university libraries in Kitui and Muranga Counties. The study aimed at achieving examining the factors influencing the use of social media in improving the uptake of academic library services. The study adopted Technology Acceptance Model as its conceptual framework. Descriptive research design was adopted, applying qualitative and quantitative methods. The target population comprised of two selected public university libraries in Kitui and Muranga Counties. The total sample size was 17 Librarians inclusive of the Chief University Librarians while total sample size for postgraduate students was 400. Literature was reviewed based on the objectives of the study. Semi-structured questionnaires were tools used for collection of data. Pilot study was carried out at Kenyatta university Kitui campus library which had similar characteristics to the libraries where the research was done to determine the reliability and validity of data collection tools. From the analysis of the collected data, the study established seventeen (17) different types of social media platforms that are currently being used to enhance uptake of the academic libraries’ services. Facebook and YouTube were the most outstanding of the platforms. Internet connectivity stood out among the factors influencing the use of social media platforms to enhance uptake of library and information services.