Evaluation of information literacy skills held by children users in community libraries: A case of Nakuru community library

Abstract

The study aimed at exploring the implementation of information literacy skills in Nakuru Community Library. The objectives of the study were to find out the type of literacy skills in users, establish the type of staff providing literacy skills, find out types of information materials available, identify the challenges of information literacy skills in children using the library, and suggest ways of addressing the challenges. Mixed methods of both quantitative and qualitative approaches were used, combining questionnaire survey and face-to-face interviews to examine users views and experiences with information literacy. Purposive sampling technique was used and data was collected through use of questionnaires, interviews and observation. Major findings of this study indicate that majority of children in the library rely heavily on the print information materials for their academic use while they like electronic information for their leisure. It was noted that information literacy is very important and helpful to children as it enables them to access information independently. The findings suggest that information literacy programmes should be embedded in the library and it should be introduced early to children when they visit the library for the first time to make them have relevant skills to access information. Some recommendations cited include; children should be given training on literacy skills, staff should be trained on modern literacy skills so that they can provide effective skills to children , adequate funding should be provided to support library literacy skills programmes and children should be encourage and trained to use electronic information so that they became modern in this era of information communication technology. In conclusion, children using the library should be equipped with relevant and up todate digital literacy skills so as to enable them compete globally as the world is embracing new technology