Authors:
Ebenezer Acheampong, University of Cape Coast, Ghana
De-Graft Johnson Dei, University of Ghana, Legon
Email: ebenezer.acheampong@ucc.edu.gh
Published: July 27, 2020
https://doi.org/10.22492/ijl.9.1.04
Citation: Acheampong, E., & De-Graft, J. D. (2020). Investigation into the Challenges Associated with the Delivery of Library Services on Mobile Technology Platform. IAFOR Journal of Literature & Librarianship, 9(1). https://doi.org/10.22492/ijl.9.1.04
Abstract
Challenges in implementing technology-based services in academic libraries have witnessed quite a lot of work in this area. This study assesses some of the challenges associated with the delivery of library services on mobile technology (m-tech) platforms. A survey research design and the mixed method approach were used in conducting this research. The topmost m-tech based library services identified in the study include mobile digital repository; mobile online public access catalogues; referencing services; SMS alerts; selective dissemination of information as well as mobile instructional guides and tours. The study established that insufficient ICT infrastructure; bureaucratic processes; poor internet bandwidth; lack of IT experts and staff; lack of a policy framework; erratic or unstable power supply; lack of support from the university management; in addition to financial constraints prohibited the full provision of library services through m-tech across the libraries studies. Based on these findings, this research offers some recommendations that would serve to overcome, in part the challenges associated with the implementation of m-tech based library services in academic libraries.
Keywords
Mobile technology, academic libraries, library services, mobile technology based library services, mobile technology challenges, Ghana