Provision of access to information in academic libraries in Southern Africa: two case studies

Abstract

Information and communications technology (ICT) makes remote access to information possible. Resource sharing facilitates the provision of access to information sources not owned by an individual library. Case studies were conducted at the University of South Africa and University of Namibia libraries to explore the provision of access to information in academic libraries in southern Africa through collection development, resource sharing and acquiring remote access to electronic resources through ICT facilities. It was found that both libraries have recently adapted their collection development policies to accommodate electronic resources although their budgets did not increase accordingly. The recruitment of ICT knowledgeable staff tends to be a problem at both libraries. Resources are shared via interlending and document supply with Unisa Library as a model in southern Africa. Both libraries add their holdings to the national bibliographies and Sabinet and are members of GAELIC. However, the UNAM library is a passive partner. A consortium within Namibia’s borders is suggested to improve resource sharing.