Knowledge Management Culture among Library Cataloguers: the University of Zambia Library Experience
Date
2017
Authors
Chitumbo, Eness M. Miyanda
Kanyengo, Christine W.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Abstract
This paper assesses knowledge management processes and practices of the Cataloguing
department of the University of Zambia Library; investigates factors that lead to poor working
systems among Cataloguers; cause inconsistencies and data redundancy in the library’s database.
A case study approach was adopted, with the aim of getting detailed information and insights into
the experienced problem of inconsistencies and duplication of the data. Structured questionnaires
and interview guides were used to collect data. The results show that there is little knowledge
sharing and transfer amongst the cataloguers; use of existing rules or standards such as Anglo
American Cataloguing Rules and Library of Congress Cataloguing Schedules with its Subject
Headings is compromised by the poor grounding of Cataloguers. The study indicates that there is
no system in place to manage tacit knowledge; lack of proper training and skills in cataloguing
and; not being able to seek help from colleagues; lack the ability of verifying the existence of
materials in the database before working on them and simply human error. There is little systematic
knowledge sharing and transfer of knowledge among cataloguers. Although there is use of existing
standards; this is compromised by lack of knowledge of cataloguing. The study also identifies
formulation of policies on the sharing of knowledge.
Description
Keywords
Knowledge Management, Cataloguing, Cataloguers, Africa, Zambia, Academic Libraries, University of Zambia
Citation
Chitumbo, Eness M. Miyanda Mrs and Kanyengo, Christine Wamunyima Ms, "Knowledge Management Culture among Library Cataloguers: the University of Zambia Library Experience" (2017). Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal). 1561. http://digitalcommons.unl.edu/libphilprac/1561