Use of digital reference services in selected academic libraries in Zambia.
Date
2020
Authors
Mwiinga, Thabiso M.
M’kulama, Abel C. M.
Chisunka-Mwila, Chitundu P.
Daka, Kaoma L.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Zambia Journal of Library & Information Science
Abstract
Modern Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) especially web technologies
are transforming the way libraries provide information to their users. Digital reference is
one such service that is trending in most academic libraries worldwide. However, there is a
significant lack of scholarly research focusing on digital reference service in academic
libraries in developing countries, let alone Zambia. This paper, therefore, discusses the use
of digital reference services in academic libraries in Zambia. It specifically investigated the
status of digital reference services in academic libraries; types of digital reference services;
and challenges of using digital reference services. The study used both quantitative and
qualitative research method designs. Forty (40) Librarians in different institutions across the
country were conveniently sampled and a structured questionnaire was used to collect data.
The findings suggest that the full potential of digital reference has not yet been maximized in
most academic libraries in Zambia. The study recommends that academic libraries should
fully adopt the use of digital reference services considering the advances in ICTs. There is
also need for a study that looks into students’ attitudes towards digital reference services in
academic libraries in Zambia.
Description
Keywords
Digital reference. , Virtual reference. , Reference services. , Libraries, Zambia.