Utilisation of information and communications technologies at the University of Eswatini Library

Abstract

Using information and communications technology (ICTs) in academic libraries has made access to information resources and services faster and easier. Academic libraries utilise diverse ICTs to ensure students have access to information that meets their needs. The study conducted at the University of Eswatini, investigated the utilisation of ICT library services by first-year students registered at the University of Eswatini. It examined the ICT facilities available, the extent to which they are used, the factors influencing their use, the problems encountered when used and strategies to enhance their utilisation. The positivist paradigm, survey design and the Unified Theory of Acceptance were employed. The population consisted of 509 first-year students from the Faculty of Humanities. A total of 303 self-administered questionnaires were distributed, and 291 were returned, yielding a 96% response rate. It was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed that the UNESWA Library offered a broad range of ICT facilities, and had high awareness of Wi-Fi (91.4%) and computers (90.4%), while it was lower for IR (22.3%) and e-theses (30.9%). Additionally, the usage was high with Wi-Fi (89.3%), OPAC and databases (85%), while limited with e-theses and institutional repositories (24.3%). The adoption of ICT was influenced by performance expectancy (54.6%), understanding the benefits of using ICT, and behavioural intention (70.4%), planning to continue using ICT facilities. Facilitating conditions were inadequate; 16.1% of respondents felt adequately supported by the available ICT infrastructure, which the library needs to improve. Hindrances to utilising included insufficient support and infrastructure, poor internet connectivity (65.2%) and lack of training (62.5%). The study recommendations were: librarian and ICT director maximise the internet bandwidth across the university; librarian adds more computers and essential ICT tools; systems librarian ensures regular maintenance and updates the library's ICT infrastructure; library staff provide more assistance and training in using ICT facilities.