Abstract
This study examined the experiences, purposes, satisfaction and missing library services towards quality library information service provisions. The study adopted a quantitative approach and a case study research design. The study involved 80 respondents at the Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Academy (MNMA) library. Data were collected through a questionnaire, and the descriptive analysis was performed with the aid of the SPSS version 20 computer program. Findings revealed that the majority, 61 (76.3%), had more than 1 year of experience. In comparison, 19 (23.8%) had less than 1 year of library services experience. Friendly infrastructures, looking for research support from librarians, reading books and looking for a quiet environment were the highly cited purposes of patrons visiting the library. The study further revealed that the majority, 87.5% of the respondents, are satisfied with the library services offered, while 12.5% are not satisfied. Regarding the missing services, the study revealed that Internet/Wi-Fi, Inadequate books and Computers are the critical services that need urgent improvement. Based on the study findings, the study recommends investment in the education and training of library staff members to enhance their capacities to welcome customers, conduct training sessions, and provide first-rate customer service.
Keywords
Introduction
Patrons have limited access to Quality Library Information Services (QLIS). QLIS makes the library relevant to users; hence, all types of libraries must understand what quality information service means from the perspective of library patrons (Cook and Heath, 2001). In the context of this study, QLIS refers to the library’s ability to provide all necessary services that aid users in obtaining relevant information that meets their information requirements. It is the QLIS that reveals the relevant information to people in need to use to better their lives. Choshaly and Mirabolghasemi (2019) and Partap (2017) underline the importance of taking user feedback into account while improving the quality of services in academic libraries. Users' input provides vital insights into areas for improvement and expansion. By incorporating user assessments into library management processes, academic libraries can better customize their services to their users' needs and expectations.
The provision of QLIS has been a problem in most academic libraries. Desa and Kassim (2014) established that customer satisfaction measures an organization’s quality service performance. This problem can be addressed by involving the patrons in planning, designing and establishing a new library information service. The fact that libraries, to some extent, have inappropriate services that are not in line with the patrons' needs is imperative to resolve this by ensuring that the patrons are involved in planning and establishing any new information service in the library. If the problem is not addressed, it is likely to persist. Eventually, libraries will become houses for patrons to read their information resources and notices instead of enjoying the available library information services to address their information gap. With the coming of Google and its partners Alexa and Siri, they threaten institutions of information services provisions, and libraries are currently at a crossroads crossroads (Satija, 2022). This problem will likely adversely affect the library and the patrons if it remains unsolved for a long time. Given that, this study investigated the provision of QLIS from the patrons’ perspective. Specifically, the study was guided by the following five specific research questions: RQ1: For how long have you been using the MNMA library? RQ2: For what purpose have you been visiting the library? RQ3: Are you satisfied with the services provided? RQ4: In your opinion, what services constitute QLIS? RQ5: What library services are missing that make you unsatisfied with the library services?
Related literature
Quality library information services
The emphasis on providing quality library information services is not new. Ranganathan, who is acknowledged as the father of librarianship, coined his five laws of librarianship with the concept of QLIS. According to him, libraries are for use, and every book must have its user, while librarians should ensure that patrons' time is saved. The library is a living organism. When patrons are not assisted in their search for information resources, they are likely to get lost (Meka and Rallabandi, 2022). A well-organized library must save patrons time, and the growth of library collections must reflect the needs of the patrons while ensuring that patrons use every information carrier in the library to address their information needs.
Molson (2022) surveyed postgraduate students' perceptions of the quality of library services at Mzuzu University. The findings revealed that the Library and Learning Resource Centre provides quality services to some extent, with the majority of students reporting satisfaction. Students emphasized favourable characteristics such as the availability of high-quality printed materials, the teaching of information literacy skills, enough lighting, a calm environment, and a sense of security in the library environment. Furthermore, Desa and Kassim (2014) examined “Quality Library Services in Malaysian Universities,” emphasizing user perceptions of service performance and overall satisfaction. The survey discovered that patrons were satisfied with the services given by libraries, including the quality of the services, the library setting, and, most importantly, the treatment they received when visiting. Despite this overall satisfaction, development opportunities were recognized, particularly regarding wireless access, computer facilities, and online resources for users. The survey also stressed the importance of libraries making their websites more user-friendly to improve patron ease of use.
Choshaly and Mirabolghasemi (2019) conducted a study titled “Using SEM-PLS to Assess User’s Satisfaction of Library Service Quality: Evidence from Malaysia”. The study revealed that services, information control and the library as a place have a significant and positive impact on the overall satisfaction of library users, with the effect of services being the most important predictor of library user satisfaction. Similarly, Mahmood et al. (2021) conducted a study to measure the quality of the college library services in the Punjab Province, Pakistan, using a LibQUAL survey. The study revealed that none of the service quality attributes and dimensions met the desired expectations of group and individual users.
Sayekti et al. (2022) evaluated the quality of information control in three areas: effect of service, library as a space, and information control, using the LibQual survey. Their study at UINSU Medan discovered issues with content, access protocols, search efficiency, ease of navigation, interface, and off-campus access, resulting in the library’s information service quality falling short of users' expectations. These results by Sayekti et al. (2022) demonstrate how important it is for libraries to better enhance their information services to meet their patrons' needs and expectations. Despite substantial research on library service quality, including studies by Sayekti et al. (2022), Molson (2022), Meka and Rallabandi (2022), Mahmood et al. (2021), and Choshaly and Mirabolghasemi (2019), none have mainly focused on Tanzania, the site of the current study. This demonstrates a gap in the literature addressing the assessment of library services in the Tanzanian setting, emphasizing the originality and significance of current research in this field.
Conceptual framework
The conceptual framework that guides this study proposes that QLIS depend on various characteristics within the library environment. These factors include the availability of relevant books, reliable internet services/Wi-Fi, enough time for service provision, an adequate number of computers, the recruitment of skilled personnel, information literacy training, user guides, user-friendly infrastructures, and the encouragement of discussions within the library. Furthermore, managerial support, budgetary resources, library staff attitudes, and technical skills among service providers are considered critical for establishing QLIS. This framework provides a structured strategy for exploring the multiple factors that influence the quality of library and information services, providing emphasis and direction to the research (Rossman and Rallis, 2017).
Methods
Area of the study
The investigation was carried out at the Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Academy (MNMA) library. MNMA’s library was chosen for this research because of its large capacity, which can accommodate up to 300 clients at once, its accessibility to the researcher and time constraints. The Academy is located at Kivukoni, Kigamboni District, Dar es Salaam. It is located on the coast of the Indian Ocean, one km south of the Kigamboni side ferry ghat. MNMA has two new campuses: Karume in Bububu, Zanzibar, and Chakechake in Pemba. This study was undertaken explicitly at MNMA Main Campus library at Kivukoni in Dar es Salaam.
Data collection methods, sampling procedure and sample size
In early February 2024, data were collected over 5 days. The timing coincided with the semester examinations, resulting in a high influx of patrons at the library, primarily students who typically utilize library resources extensively during exam periods. This timeframe was chosen purposefully for the study due to the heightened presence of patrons. A questionnaire consisting mainly of closed-ended and one open-ended question was meticulously prepared to gather pertinent data related to the study’s focus. Ninety-eight patrons who visited the library during the data collection period received the questionnaire. However, only 80 questionnaires were adequately completed and deemed suitable for inclusion in the study, establishing the study’s sample size. According to Cochran (1977), a sample size of 30 respondents is sufficient for statistical analysis. The questionnaires were distributed and collected at the library’s checkpoint. The study employed an accidental sampling procedure, whereby library patrons present during the data collection period were included in the study.
Research approach and design
The study adopted a quantitative research approach whereby a questionnaire with closed-ended questions was used as the primary data collection method with one open-ended question where the respondents were asked to air their voices regarding the topic under study. A case study design was adopted whereby data for the study were collected at MNMA Library, which is the case. Data collected at one point at a time saves time and effort, and this was the reason for the selection of this design.
Data analysis and presentation
The collected data underwent descriptive analysis using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 20. The results were presented in frequencies and percentages, and tables and figures were utilized to visualize the findings.
Results and discussion
Respondents' experience in using the library
Respondents experience in using library (n = 80).
The majority of respondents, 76.3%, with more than 1 year of experience utilizing library services, suggest an adequate composition for gathering thorough information on the topic under consideration. Respondents with significant experience are better positioned to provide comprehensive evaluations of library service quality than those with less expertise, increasing the reliability and depth of the study findings (Barfi et al., 2023). Based on user experience characteristics, those with a high level of experience are more likely to be satisfied with the services given.
Purposes of visiting the library
Purpose of visiting the Library (n = 80).
Reading books
The majority, 76.3% of study participants, stated that their primary motivation for visiting the library was to read the books provided, to gain new knowledge and to meet their information needs. This remark is congruent with a study by Malekani and Mubofu (2019), who revealed that libraries help transform students through accessible information resources, the primary reason for student visits to libraries.
Searching for internet services
40% of respondents claimed they go to the library to use the Internet. This emphasizes the growing importance of internet access for customers, particularly students in higher education institutions. The capacity to access online material augments the resources accessible in physical books, allowing users to expand their knowledge and research capabilities. In today’s digital age, reliable internet connectivity in libraries is critical for promoting adequate information access and meeting the educational needs of library clients, particularly those in academic environments.
Looking for a quiet environment
A further reason given by 61.3% of respondents for visiting the library is to find a peaceful setting where they may read and understand materials without being interrupted. This emphasizes how important libraries are as peaceful places where people can concentrate, learn, and think without being disturbed (Mubofu and Mambo, 2021). Creating a calm environment is in line with libraries' core purpose of serving as safe spaces for study and thought, meeting the demands of users who value focus and reflection while pursuing their interests in academia or other areas.
Borrowing reading materials
The survey also showed that 55.0% of participants go to the library to check out items or information sources. By checking out resources from the library, users can use them whenever and wherever they choose, including outside of the building. This emphasizes how crucial library lending services are for providing people with access to resources outside of the library and letting them interact with the materials in ways that best meet their requirements for learning or research.
Looking for research support from librarians
80.0% of respondents visit the library for research assistance indicates a firm reliance on librarians for academic and research-related inquiries. This means patrons regard librarians as valuable resources who can offer advice, support, and skill in navigating information resources, conducting effective research, and obtaining specialized materials. It emphasizes librarians' critical role as facilitators of information literacy and research skill development, as well as the value of their experience in assisting customers with their information needs and academic pursuits within the library environment.
Friendly infrastructures like chairs and tables
The study further finds that 98.8% of respondents visit the library because of friendly infrastructures such as chairs and tables, emphasizing the importance of comfortable and conducive physical settings in attracting patrons. This high percentage indicates that customers place high importance on providing amenities that enhance their comfort and convenience when using library services. It underlines the importance of having well-maintained and welcoming facilities to improve the library experience and increase user satisfaction. It also emphasizes the importance of physical infrastructure in establishing patron impressions of the library as a friendly and accessible place to learn and study.
Satisfaction with the services provided
The researcher aimed to assess the satisfaction levels of library patrons with the services provided. The findings of this analysis are depicted in Figure 1. Satisfaction with the library services (n = 80).
Although the analysis indicates that a significant majority, 87.5% of the respondents, express satisfaction with the library services offered, it is noteworthy that 12.5% are not satisfied with the services provided. It demonstrates that while the majority of patrons of libraries feel satisfied with the services offered, a sizable minority are unsatisfied. Understanding the views and preferences of this minority could be critical for enhancing overall service quality and correcting any potential flaws in the library’s services. Further research into the precise causes of this unhappiness could provide significant insights for improving the general contentment of all consumers.
Respondents' opinions on what services constitute QLIS
Respondents opinion on what constitutes QLIS (n = 80).
Free training opportunities
According to the views of library clients, a significant majority, 83.8%, highlighted that free training opportunities offered in libraries contribute to making the library environment vibrant while also fulfilling their information needs. The provision of free training opportunities is particularly valued by library clients, mainly when it encompasses various soft skills. This emphasis on free training enhances the quality of library services and it aligns with user expectations by effectively addressing their information needs (Hussain and Ameen, 2023).
Friendly infrastructures
The fact that 73.8% of respondents consider library infrastructures to gauge service quality emphasizes the necessity of investing in physical facilities. Keeping current and well-equipped venues is critical for increasing customer happiness, attracting new customers, and remaining competitive. Prioritizing infrastructure enhancements allows libraries not only to exceed user expectations but also to assure their ability to accommodate different information needs, which constitutes quality library information services in the context of this study.
Availability of sufficient space for reading
The findings indicate that 73.8% of respondents consider the availability of sufficient reading space as integral to QLIS. This aligns with research by La Marca (2021), which emphasizes the importance of well-organized reading spaces in libraries, primarily as they serve as essential learning centres for patrons. Ensuring adequate and properly arranged reading areas is crucial for facilitating a conducive environment for learning and promoting positive user experiences within libraries.
Availability of an adequate number of computers
The study revealed that 71.3% of respondents consider an adequate number of computers as a critical component of QLIS. This finding suggests that modern libraries must prioritize providing sufficient computer resources to meet the needs of their patrons (Mubofu, 2019). It implies that access to computers for tasks such as research, accessing digital resources, and completing assignments is essential for enhancing the quality of library services. Furthermore, it underlines the changing role of libraries in providing access to digital technologies and supporting information access in an increasingly digital world.
Availability of Wi-Fi in the library 24/7
From the study analysis, it is evident that 70.0% of respondents consider the availability of Wi-Fi 24/7 as a crucial indicator of QLIS. This indicates the growing importance of internet access and connectivity in modern libraries, as patrons increasingly rely on digital resources and online platforms for research, learning, and information retrieval. Ensuring uninterrupted Wi-Fi availability aligns with meeting library users' evolving needs and expectations in accessing information anytime and anywhere, thus enhancing the overall quality of library services.
Discussion opportunities in library chambers
According to 62.5% of respondents, libraries offering conversation topics enhance the QLIS. This emphasizes how essential libraries are as places for collaborative learning and intellectual exchange and as informational archives. Providing spaces for discussion encourages scholarly debate, collaborative learning, and information exchange between users, improving the library’s overall learning environment. It implies that libraries are essential for creating an atmosphere that encourages participation and communication in addition to giving people access to materials. This helps libraries provide high-quality services that cater to the various demands of their patrons.
Availability of relevant print and electronic books
An essential element of QLIS, according to 58.8% of respondents, is having access to pertinent print and electronic books. This highlights the value of libraries in selecting and making a wide variety of items available to meet users' informational and learning needs. The fact that print and electronic formats are included recognizes the dynamic nature of information sharing. It emphasizes the need for libraries to help keep up with technological innovations. Providing timely and pertinent resources to patrons strengthens the role of libraries as information centres. It highlights the importance of these spaces in fostering lifelong learning and research projects.
Time extension
It was further revealed that 35.0% of research participants cited time extension as a crucial component of QLIS. This acknowledgement implies that accommodating client demands through extended library or flexible operating hours can have a significant positive impact (Dube and Jacobs, 2023). Granting time extensions, libraries serve people with different schedules and lifestyles by enabling them to use their resources and services whenever it is most convenient. This acknowledgement highlights how crucial accessibility is to keeping libraries current and helpful for their patrons, eventually raising the library service standard.
Availability of skilled library staff
Furthermore, the study found that 30% of respondents believe that having skilled library staff implies providing QLIS. This research emphasizes the importance of knowing and competent library staff in providing efficient services to users. Skilled library staff help users with research inquiries, navigate information resources, and provide information literacy guidance (Mushi et al., 2023). Their knowledge improves the overall user experience by ensuring patrons receive the support and help they require to access and use library resources efficiently. As a result, investing in library staff training and professional development is critical to sustaining and increasing library service quality.
Availability of library guides
The study found that 22.5% of respondents believe providing library guides improves QLIS. This emphasizes providing users with extensive and readily available information for successfully navigating library collections and services. Library guides might include written materials, online resources, or human assistance from staff members to assist patrons in finding information, using library resources, and getting the most out of their research or learning experience. According to Mubofu and Mambo (2021) libraries may improve user satisfaction and help customers meet their information needs by providing clear guidance and support, adding to the overall quality of library services.
Missing library services
Missing library services (n = 80).
Internet/Wi-Fi
The most commonly reported missing service in the library, noted by 55% of respondents, is a lack of internet/Wi-Fi connectivity. Respondents suggested setting up free, readily available Wi-Fi using credentials known to students. This Wi-Fi network should be secure and password-free, allowing users to read and download electronic books from subscribing databases. Implementing Wi-Fi would considerably improve the quality of library services, satisfying consumers' rising needs for digital access and resources (Sayekti et al., 2022).
Relevant books
The study found that 30% of respondents noted the absence of relevant books, particularly in Swahili, accounting, and project-related topics. This resulted in poor-quality library services as patrons could not access the information they needed. This finding aligns with the study by Beneyat-Dulagan and Cabonero (2023), which highlighted challenges faced by students, including insufficient learning spaces, poor internet connectivity, difficulty finding necessary documents or books, lack of designated reading areas, absence of printing or photocopying services, and insufficient professional books. The absence of these books indicates that the library’s services did not meet the client’s information needs.
Computers
The study found that 28.75% of respondents identified computer services in the library as missing. Despite having a dedicated section for student computer access, none of the computers were functional. This lack of technology and facilities for knowledge exploration, creation, and sharing was also noted by Beneyat-Dulagan and Cabonero (2023) in their study, which explored the library activities, learning spaces, and challenges encountered towards the establishment of a learning commons. Furthermore, insufficient computers have reduced patronage and utilization of library information resources from the library collection, which connotes quality library services.
Library space
Regarding library space, 5% of respondents stated that the current space is insufficient, emphasizing the need to expand to accommodate additional clients. Libraries, as calm settings, are particularly appealing to students, especially during test periods. Choy and Goh (2016) stressed the value of libraries in offering quiet and sociable spaces for students to engage in various learning activities. Thus, enlarging the library area is consistent with this purpose and would improve the overall quality of library services.
Chairs and tables
The study results revealed that 5% of the study participants noted that the number of chairs and tables was insufficient, affecting the reduced number of patrons who visited the library. Thus, patrons do not exploit the library service quality if it is available (Estrullo-Suaga et al., 2023).
Training opportunities
Additionally, 5% of the study participants noted that for the library services to be of quality, it is essential for the librarians to introduce free training opportunities. The training will enhance patron’s information literacy skills in searching, retrieving and evaluating the retrieved sources whether it is fit for academic consumption or not (Hussain and Ameen, 2023).
Extension of service time
The study results revealed that 5% of the study participants opined that library management should consider extending service time, especially during the examination period. This will allow them to better prepare for the examinations. However, this privilege is missing; thus, library service is seen as not supporting patrons. Extending the service hours is likely to attract more library clients (Dube and Jacobs, 2023).
Library chambers for discussion
It was further noted by 3.75% of the respondents that library chambers for discussion were missing, which could add value to the current library services being offered. Having a room where patrons can engage in discussion without disturbing other patrons is essential. It is likely to attract more clients to use the library (Mubofu and Mambo, 2021). This service will demonstrate the library’s dedication to creating an atmosphere favourable to learning, collaboration, and community engagement by accommodating a wide range of needs and preferences, ultimately improving their service quality.
Charging points for electronic devices
According to 2.5% of the respondents, the absence of charging points for electronic devices such as computers and smartphones hurts the quality of library services. Given the essential role of smartphones and computers for university students, libraries must have infrastructure that supports these devices to enhance their credibility (Devine and Appleton, 2023). The lack of charging facilities may deter some students from visiting the library. Providing such amenities not only ensures accessibility but also acknowledges the evolving needs of modern learners, thereby contributing positively to the overall quality of library services.
Finally, among the least cited missing services that could enhance the quality of library services are distant toilets for students, insufficient luggage cards, absence of an emergency bell, lack of information retrieval training, suitable arrangement of materials, restricted access to drinking water, and the absence of televisions and air conditioners. Addressing these issues is imperative for library management to improve information services, ensuring a more conducive and satisfactory environment for patrons.
Conclusion and recommendation
Conclusion
Based on the study findings, the study concludes that while most library patrons’ express satisfaction with the services provided, there remains a need to ensure satisfaction for every user, indicating that QLIS have yet to be fully attained. The study concludes that library free training opportunities, friendly infrastructures, availability of enough space for reading, availability of an adequate number of computers, availability of Wi-Fi in the library 24/7, and discussion opportunities in library chambers, constitute QLIS, according to patrons' opinions. Finally, the study concludes that Internet/Wi-Fi, Inadequate books and Computers are the highly cited missing services that could enhance the QLIS if available.
Recommendation
Based on the conclusion, the following suggestions could be drawn: • Staff Development and Training: Invest in the education and training of library staff members to enhance their capacities to welcome customers, conduct training sessions, and provide first-rate customer service. • Role of current awareness services and Selective Dissemination of Information in meeting the library user needs: Based on the study findings, it is clear that library staff should not become arrogant; instead, they should work hard to meet the demands of most library clients. Therefore, measures such as current awareness services and selective dissemination of information should be taken to ensure continuous progress and thus meet the client’s needs and expectations, which is the library’s primary role. • Draw attention to QLIS Components: The components identified as ensuring up QLIS should be libraries' primary priorities. These elements consist of free training courses, welcoming environments, enough room for reading, sufficient computers, continuous Wi-Fi connectivity, and a readiness to hold talks in library spaces. • Engagement with Stakeholders: Work with academic departments, lecturers, and student organizations to modify library services and resources to the specific needs of different user groups.
Footnotes
Declaration of conflicting interests
The author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.
Funding
The author(s) received no financial support for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.
