Academic Libraries' Responses to Ensure Student Access to Information Resources during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Africa

Core Concepts

Academic libraries in Africa adopted various approaches to facilitate access to library information resources for university students following the sudden closure of university campuses due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Abstract

This study analyzed the literature to ascertain the types of information services that were provided by academic libraries to their students during the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in Africa. Specifically, the study focused on identifying the measures adopted by academic libraries to ensure the smooth delivery of library information resources to patrons, particularly students, and the technological tools employed by libraries to facilitate access to library information resources. The study also investigated the challenges faced by university students in accessing library information resources amidst the global pandemic.
The findings reveal that during the COVID-19 pandemic, many academic libraries in Africa adopted different approaches to facilitate access to library information resources by university students. These included expanding access to electronic resources, offering virtual reference services, and enhancing circulation and lending services. To support access to various library services and information resources, academic libraries in Africa used various digital technological tools like social media, library websites, email, and videoconferencing.
Moreover, the study revealed that limited access to internet services and ICT devices, as well as inadequate digital and information literacy, were the major challenges faced by many university students in accessing library resources during the pandemic. This study recommends investment in ICT infrastructures and expanding electronic resource collections, which are vital resources in the digital era.

Stats

The COVID-19 pandemic forced academic libraries in Africa to close their physical locations.
Many academic libraries in Africa adopted different approaches to facilitate access to library information resources by university students during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Academic libraries in Africa used various digital technological tools like social media, library websites, email, and videoconferencing to support access to different library services and information resources.
Limited access to internet services and ICT devices, as well as inadequate digital and information literacy, were the major challenges faced by many university students in accessing library resources during the pandemic.

Quotes

"The COVID-19 pandemic serves as a wake-up call to academic libraries in Africa to assess the way they can continue providing services to users including patrons during the time when physical libraries are inaccessible."
"Patrons expect the library to offer information services through digital communication technologies."
"Even during the pandemic, some libraries could provide access to digital content without physically visiting the library building."

Key Insights Distilled From

University Students Motives and Challenges in Utilising Institutional Repository Resources

by Suzan Masawe... at arxiv.org 03-29-2024

https://arxiv.org/pdf/2401.17959.pdf

Deeper Inquiries

How can academic libraries in Africa leverage emerging technologies to enhance remote access to library resources and services for university students during future emergencies?

In Africa, academic libraries can leverage emerging technologies such as cloud computing, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence to enhance remote access to library resources and services for university students during future emergencies. By implementing cloud-based systems, libraries can ensure that students can access digital resources from anywhere with an internet connection. Virtual reality can be used to create immersive online library experiences, allowing students to virtually browse shelves and interact with librarians. Artificial intelligence can help in personalized recommendations and efficient search functionalities, improving the overall user experience for students accessing library resources remotely.

What policy and funding interventions are needed to address the digital divide and improve digital literacy among university students in Africa to ensure equitable access to library resources?

To address the digital divide and improve digital literacy among university students in Africa, policymakers need to implement initiatives that focus on infrastructure development, digital skills training, and affordability of technology. Funding should be allocated towards providing high-speed internet access in remote areas, subsidizing the cost of devices for students, and offering digital literacy programs. Policies should prioritize inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring that all students have equal opportunities to access and utilize library resources. Collaboration between governments, educational institutions, and private sectors is crucial to bridge the digital divide and enhance digital literacy among university students in Africa.

In what ways can the COVID-19 pandemic experience inform the long-term strategic planning and transformation of academic libraries in Africa to better serve the evolving information needs of students and faculty?

The COVID-19 pandemic experience can inform the long-term strategic planning and transformation of academic libraries in Africa by highlighting the importance of digital readiness, flexibility, and innovation. Libraries can invest in robust online platforms, digital collections, and remote services to cater to the changing information needs of students and faculty. Implementing hybrid models that combine physical and virtual services can enhance accessibility and convenience. The pandemic also underscores the significance of disaster preparedness and remote learning support, prompting libraries to prioritize resilience and adaptability in their strategic planning. Collaboration with other institutions and leveraging technology for data analytics and user engagement can further enhance the role of academic libraries in meeting the evolving needs of the academic community in Africa.