EXAMINATION OF INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY USE IN ACADEMIC LIBRARIES IN GHANA

Abstract

Academic libraries are critical contributors to knowledge generation which serve a wide spectrum of knowledge seekers. The shift from print to digital information has a high impact on all components of the academic library system. Academic libraries in Ghana seem to be facing overwhelming challenges in the adoption of JCT academic in academic libraries. A total of eight (8) tertiary institutions were selected for the study, with ninety-six (96) respondents made up of librarians, academic staff and students. Questionnaires were used to solicit the relevant data for the study. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistical analysis.The findings suggest that, there is a reasonable level of awareness among libraries of academic institutions about the potential benefits of ICT. Despite this, the current usage in most institutions was found to be unsophisticated. The study also identified budget constraints for ICT investment, inadequate commitment by tertiary institutions management and erratic supply of electricity as major factors affecting usage. It is plausible to conclude from the study that while interest and posture towards ICT by academic institutions in Ghana seem promising, the factors identified from the study could be the major issues that stakeholders and academic institutions need to address in order to measure up to the standard. The study finally proposed recommendations on the need for financial support, institutions management to focus and provide effective leadership towards successful implementation of ICT in their libraries