Academic Library Development in Ghana: Top Managers' Perspectives

Abstract

The views of 21 academic librarians were sought in a qualitative study to identify the main issues that would shape the development of academic libraries in Ghana in the early years of the millennium. The Grounded Theory Approach used for data collection and analysis. revealed five main categories as the main concerns namely: strategic planning. information technology. service development. library funding. human and physical resource development and organisational climate. 1t is concluded that academic librarianship in Ghana needs a completely new definition and redirection. and academic libraries are urged to show an intense commitment to the highest levels of service. team work and demand-led acquisition. Introduction With an enormous increase in student numbers without corresponding increases in funding, academic libraries have been under several pressures over the last decade to manage their libraries effectively and efficiently. They are also increasingly required to extend or supplement services by the use of electronic technology. Academic librarians have to think of their plans with a view to redefining some of the traditional concepts of academic Iibrarianship. This study therefore sought the views of some seasoned academic librarians in Ghana on issues concerning academic libraries for the new millennium.