The Ghana Library Journal is a diamond open-access double-blind peer-reviewed journal intended for librarians, library administrators, information scientists, academics, educators and students from various backgrounds who are interested in all aspects of Librarianship and Information Science that are central to the information profession. The Journal strictly adheres to the principles and best practices outlined by the Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ). The journal fully supports Open Access publishing and the FAIR Data Principles — Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable — encouraging authors to share underlying data, code, supplementary materials whenever possible, and licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. The Ghana Library Journal publishes twice a year (July and November). The Journal is indexed and replicated on African Journals Online (AJOL).
Exploring Diasporic Information Needs for the “Motherland”
Centuries after the infamous slave trade era, there has been an influx of the diaspora to visit the continent of Africa. These nationalities, a lot of whom call the continent the “motherland”, undertake these trips for a variety of reasons, including reconnecting with ancestors. This study explores the information needs of the African American diaspora when travelling to Ghana, and compares their accounts with local Ghanaians. Using qualitative methodology, the findings suggest that for tourists, this lack of information has sometimes led to disappointment as the reality can sometimes be different than expectations. These travelers need accurate information related to food, culture, politics, language, and society. The results of this research are useful to the African American diasporic community, librarians in area studies or at universities where students may embark on trips to Africa, or for public librarians who engage with people interested in diasporic tourism.
© Kodjo Elolo Atiso (Author) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Preserving Indigenous Knowledge through Older Adults in Ghana: Challenges and Information Management Strategies
The dominant framing of indigenous knowledge preservation as a technological problem, solvable through better documentation tools, digital archives, and metadata systems, misdiagnoses what is actually at stake in Ghana. Knowledge held by older adults does not decay because it lacks a recording device. It decays because the social conditions that make it meaningful, transmissible, and worth transmitting are eroding. This narrative review argues that any preservation framework oriented primarily toward capture rather than toward the renewal of community conditions is likely to produce archives that communities do not use, do not control, and do not trust. Drawing on peer-reviewed literature published primarily between 2018 and 2025, with selective reference to foundational works where these provide irreplaceable empirical baselines, the review maps the principal forms of elder-held knowledge in Ghana, spanning traditional medicine, oral traditions, agricultural adaptation, and governance, and analyses the structural challenges that impede their intergenerational transmission. It then synthesises information management strategies organised around the UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (UNESCO, 2003) and the CARE Principles for Indigenous Data Governance (Carroll et al., 2020), two frameworks chosen precisely because they centre community authority and collective benefit rather than institutional efficiency. The review also insists on a point that preservation literature tends to avoid: not all indigenous knowledge is equally valued or uniformly beneficial within the communities that hold it, and preservation frameworks that bypass community deliberation about what deserves to be preserved, and on whose terms, risk romanticising tradition rather than serving communities. Sustainable preservation depends less on technology than on trust, community self-determination, and policies grounded in Ghana’s existing institutional landscape.
© Florence Akosua Agyemang, Victus Gyambiby (Author) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Bridging the Awareness-Adoption Gap: A Content Analysis of Institutionalised Social Media Use for Library Promotion in Nigerian Federal Universities
Promoting library resources through digital marketing has become a key strategy in modern librarianship for increasing user patronage and awareness. However, awareness of social media’s importance does not always translate into institutional adoption or the creation of dedicated digital marketing units. This study used digital content analysis to assess the institutional use of social media for library promotion in Nigeria, focusing on 51 federal university libraries. Data were collected from official YouTube, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter accounts. Posts were analysed based on visibility, recency, followership, feedback, and relevance to library promotion. Findings revealed low institutional adoption of social media, a preference for Facebook, poor alignment of posts with library content, and low user engagement. The study recommends advocating institutional adoption of social media, creating dedicated promotion units, and providing librarian training. It also urges library schools to integrate social media into their curricula to enhance library visibility in a competitive information environment.
© Sirajudeen Femi Bakrin, Sunday Tunmibi (Author) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Information provision on Academic library websites in Ghana: Pre- and post-COVID-19 pandemic analysis
Academic library websites are used to provide relevant information and services to the immediate academic community and beyond. This study aimed to determine the kind of services and information provided by academic libraries in Ghana on their websites before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Using content analysis, the study adapted Pareek and Gupta’s (2013) academic library website checklist as a tool for collecting data on the websites of nine selected academic libraries in Ghana before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Paired sample t-test was used to compare the two data sets. The findings revealed that the websites are used mainly as avenues for information provision on some aspects of resources and services provided. However, there has been a reduction in the number of websites, the extent of information and service provision when the data from pre- and post-COVID-19 were compared. Service provision on the websites, which is the current demand from library users, is very minimal, and the libraries lack information on their websites about their unique and rare collections. Evidence from the websites of Ghanaian academic libraries gives an indication that the libraries are not making extensive use of their websites to meet the demands of the 21st-century information service provision through virtual service delivery. This prevents global access to the contents of the library collection. It is therefore recommended that libraries see their website as a modern marketing tool and develop strategies to optimise its use.
© Patience Emefa Dzandza Ocloo, Lizette King (Author) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Library operations performance objectives: empirical evidence from users’ expectations
This study aims to investigate the expectations of library users based on operations performance objectives (OPO) such as quality, flexibility, speed, dependability, and security of services and resources to adopt a strategic direction in which the creation and delivery of library resources and services would meet the expectations of library users. A survey was conducted to collect data from 506 students of fifteen (15) academic universities in Ghana using questionnaires and the data was analysed descriptively. The results indicated that the general student populace prioritised speed as the key operations performance objective determining user satisfaction with library operations. Besides, undergraduate students prioritised speed and dependability, whereas postgraduate students prioritised flexibility. Finally, the outcome indicated that public university students prioritised dependability higher, while their counterparts in the private sector prioritised quality. Findings of the study might aid the adoption of a strategic direction in which the creation and delivery of library resources and services would meet the expectations of its users.
© Evelyn Ogboo Apronti Tetteh, Raphael Aryee, Faustina Aryeetey (Author) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Leadership Styles and Service Delivery of Staff in Public Polytechnic Libraries in South-West, Nigeria
Service oriented organisations are always concerned with the quality of their service delivery. Service delivery is a major yardstick in determining the relevance, effectiveness and significance of academic libraries. The study investigated the influence of leadership styles on the service delivery of polytechnic library staff in South-west, Nigeria. Survey research method using questionnaire was adopted to gather data for the study. The population of the study is three hundred and twenty-five (325) staff from twenty-three (23) public polytechnic libraries in South-west, Nigeria. Total enumeration technique was adopted for the respondents for the questionnaire. Quantitative data provided insight into the prominent leadership styles of library staff towards the quality of service delivered. Specifically, the finding revealed that autocratic (Means = 3.2648; SD = 0.628) and democratic (Means = 3.2457; SD = 0.508) styles are the prominent leadership styles adopted by the library staff in South-west, Nigeria. It was found that leadership style is positively related to service delivery (r = .425; p<0.05). It was thus recommended that hybrid method should be employed by heads of libraries to provide effective library services since one type of a leadership may not produce the needed quality service delivery.
© Ganiyu Idowu Buhari, Adetoun Omolola Idowu, Musediq Tunji Bashorun (Author) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Anchored in Change: Librarians’ Organisational Commitment during Institutional Transformation at the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC)
This study explored organisational commitment among librarians at the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC), Ghana, following institutional transformation. Using a qualitative design and guided by Meyer and Allen’s Three-Component Model, interviews with twenty librarians were thematically analysed. The study fills a gap in African library scholarship by examining commitment within a newly merged university system, integrating change-management and affective-engagement perspectives. Findings reveal strong affective commitment shaped by professional identity and participatory leadership but challenged by workload, uncertainty, and limited recognition. The paper contributes theoretically by linking organisational commitment to transformation management and practically by suggesting leadership and human resource strategies for sustaining staff engagement in an evolving academic environment.
© Emmanuel Adjei, Franklin Kwame Nti (Author) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
It is with great pleasure that I present Volume 31, Issue 2 (July 2026) of the Ghana Library Journal (GLJ). This regular issue continues the journal’s commitment to publishing rigorous and relevant scholarship that advances library and information science research while responding to emerging challenges and opportunities across Africa and beyond. The seven papers featured in this issue reflect the breadth of contemporary scholarship, covering organisational development, leadership, service quality, digital transformation, indigenous knowledge, scholarly communication, and information behaviour. Collectively, they demonstrate the evolving role of libraries as institutions that support learning, research, innovation, cultural preservation, and community development. The issue opens with Adjei and Nti, who examine organisational commitment among UniMAC librarians during institutional transformation and highlight the importance of participatory leadership and staff recognition. Buhari, Idowu, and Bashorun explore leadership styles in Nigerian polytechnic libraries, showing how flexible leadership can strengthen service delivery. Tetteh, Aryee, and Aryeetey examine users’ expectations of library services and offer practical guidance for improving quality, speed, flexibility, and dependability. Ocloo and King assess Ghanaian academic library websites before and after COVID-19, calling for stronger virtual services and a more effective online presence. Bakrin and Tunmibi investigate social media use in Nigerian federal university libraries and emphasise the need for strategic digital marketing and staff training. Agyemang and Gyambiby focus on indigenous knowledge preservation in Ghana, arguing that trust, community participation, and self-determination are as important as technology. The issue concludes with Atiso’s study of the information needs of African American diaspora travellers to Ghana, offering useful insights for libraries, tourism professionals, and institutions supporting heritage tourism and cultural reconnection.
© Monica Mensah-Danquah (Author) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Improving Health Literacy Knowledge Using AI-Assisted Technologies among University Lecturers
University lecturers play a pivotal role in shaping the academic landscape, contributing significantly to research output and academic libraries’ repositories. Their health literacy is crucial not only for personal well-being but also for sustaining scholarly productivity. The advent of AI technologies in healthcare introduces new avenues for improving health literacy among university lecturers. Wearable devices, virtual assistants, predictive analytics and AI-assisted diagnosis tools offer personalized health insights, empowering lecturers to make informed decisions about their well-being. This explorative qualitative study, conducted at a public university in Ghana, investigated the utilisation of AI-assisted technologies among lecturers to improve their health literacy knowledge. Using purposive and snowball sampling procedures, semi-structured interviews were conducted for twenty experienced lecturers below the age of 50 years, with over 5 years of teaching experience, who use AI-assisted technologies for health monitoring. The findings revealed that AI-assisted technologies have the potential to positively influence lecturers’ health behaviours, promote proactive steps towards healthier lifestyles and improve well-being; AI-assisted technologies give users early signals to health complications; health information provided by these technologies should be confirmed with a medical practitioner. The study further revealed concerns of lecturers regarding privacy, potential health risks and psychological consequences associated with constant self-monitoring using AI-assisted technologies. The study concludes that AI-assisted technologies have the potential of enhancing health literacy among university lecturers.
© Mac-Anthony Cobblah, Gloria Tachie-Donkor, Paul Nunekpeku (Author) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Artificial Intelligence and Academic Integrity: The Role of Academic Librarians
The increasing dependence on Artificial Intelligence (AI) writing tools among advanced learners has sparked concerns about academic dishonesty, prompting stakeholders to develop ways to maintain academic integrity. The study explored the role of academic librarians in maintaining academic integrity with the prevalence of AI writing tools among students. The study was conducted through qualitative methods with a phenomenological design. A semi-structured interview was used to collect data from twelve academic librarians in six universities in Ghana. The data was analysed thematically with word clouds. The findings of the study revealed that the roles of academic librarians are more tailored towards maintaining research integrity, an aspect of academic integrity. Also, the study observed that academic librarians play relevant roles in empowering students on the ethical use of information in the current dispensation of AI application tools in learning. Based on the study’s findings, it is recommended a skill upgrade of library staff in evolving AI technology in response to issues of academic misconduct among students. Furthermore, the study suggests that academic institutions should revise academic integrity policies to address the increasing use of AI writing tools among students.
© Christopher Filson Kwame, Diana Atuase (Author) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Artificial Intelligence, Academic Writing and Access to Information among Graduate Students at the University for Development Studies
This study examines the connection between Artificial Intelligence (AI), academic writing and access to information among graduate students at the University for Development Studies (UDS). In an era characterized by the pervasive influence of AI technologies on various facets of academia, including research and scholarly communication, understanding their implications for graduate students’ academic writing practices and access to information are of paramount importance. This study seeks to elucidate how AI is shaping the landscape of academic writing and information access, aiming to provide insights that can inform academic institutions, educators and policymakers in fostering an environment conducive to productive and equitable scholarly endeavors. A sample size of hundred and thirteen (113) students was randomly selected from both Masters and PhDs from various programs to ensure even distribution. The study’s objectives are: (1) to assess the awareness and utilization of AI among students; (2) to analyze the impact of AI on information access; (3) to identify challenges faced by students in accessing AI; and (4) to evaluate the influence of AI on academic writing. In order to accomplish these objectives, questionnaire is employed as the data collection instrument. This specialized tool gathers insights and perceptions of graduate students regarding AI awareness, experiences with AI in information access, encountered challenges and the effects of AI on their academic writing endeavors. The study found that students at UDS indicate a high level of awareness of AI, students mostly use Digital Writing Assistants (DWAs) like Grammarly, Quilbot, Word Tune, ChatGPT, and other AI-powered tools to enhance their writing skills, enhancing information search and retrieval capacity, making learning and information search fun/gamification, restrictions or limited access due to subscription fees and lack of technical skills in using some AI-powered tools among others. The study’s findings aim to enhance our understanding of how AI can empower graduate students and contribute to their academic success while addressing the challenges they face. The findings of this study have the potential to inform pedagogical approaches, support services and policy recommendations that enhance the academic experience of graduate students and promote scholarly excellence in the digital age.
© Abdul-Rahim Mohammed Hardi, Issah Dawuda, Inusah Baasha (Author) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Developing a Federated Institutional Repositories in Nigerian University Libraries
Information and Communication Technology has enabled the digitisation of hitherto hard copy information resources which can be made available to information users in digital format. Libraries in tertiary institutions, particularly university libraries, have therefore leveraged on this to deposit the intellectual output of their universities in repositories and make it open so that they can be visible worldwide. This paper discussed the concept of open institutional repositories and requirements for setting up an institutional repository, benefits of a federated repositories and management practices of librarians to ensure effective use of the repositories. The study used the quantitative research method and made use of questionnaire in the collection of relevant data. Existing literature was reviewed and a quantitative data analysis approach was employed. The findings revealed that majority of the respondents (94.10%) stated that they have institutional repositories in their universities; contents in institutional repositories were open (70.6%) and a high percentage of 70.6% of the respondents stated that they have operational institutional repository policies. It was revealed that the repositories contained more journals than the other contents with 70.60% followed by research data with 64.70% and only a little above half (52.9%) of the repositories were registered on the OAI-PMH. Strategies for effective repositories management practices were predominantly dependent on training and retraining of staff and contents of IRs were made open. The major perceived challenges facing the federated IR in Nigeria include poor ICT infrastructure (76.5%) and poor Internet connectivity (76.5%). The study recommended adoption of the institutional repository, specifically, federated institutional repository in Nigeria by university libraries to effectively manage information resources created within the institutions.
© Jibril Attahiru Alhassan (Author) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Making Academic Electronic Information Resources Accessible in a Comfort Zone: Exploring Students’ Awareness of Resources at Ashesi University Warren Library
The Ashesi University Warren Library has, over the years, applied innovative technologies and creativity in making academic information resources accessible to students. The library’s resources are accessed through webpages, URLs and QR codes on laptops and handheld devices, such as Android phones, iPads and Tablets and in the users’ comfort zones. This paper examines students’ awareness, use and experiences using the library’s resources, sources of awareness, and suggestions for improved awareness-creation strategies. Monthly statistics of students’ use of the OPAC and E-Library systems show lower usage as against student population. This is a widespread problem for academic libraries. The researcher used the constructivism paradigm with qualitative investigation approach and interview survey based on the study variables. Convenience sampling of the nonprobability sampling techniques was used to select six participants who were interviewed based on their consent and readiness to participate in the research. The descriptive design was used to analyse the collected user statistics and interview data presented in tables, figures and word cloud. The study was interpretive and subject to the students’ responses on their awareness, use and experience of using academic information resources. The responses were not generalised to the entire university population but based on the opinions of the students interviewed. The findings are that ten resources were used out of the 30 available resources. Three resources were mostly used and four were less used. The respondents mentioned that they are aware of the academic information resources, but two out of those interviewed mentioned that they are unaware of all the resources. The respondents mentioned that they use the subscribed resources, but two of them use other course-related resources that are unsubscribed. The respondents mentioned that their experiences of using the resources were satisfactory, but two of them had unsatisfactory experiences. The findings suggest strategies to expand the scope of awareness creation of the subscribed resources for very high user statistics, experiences and satisfaction. The study will add to knowledge on the best strategies to create awareness of the subscribed academic information resources.
© Dinah Koteikor Baidoo (Author) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Enhancing Information Access in an Era of ChatGPT and Other Artificial Intelligence Technologies
The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, particularly generative AI tools such as ChatGPT, has ushered in a transformative era for information access, knowledge creation, teaching, learning, research, and professional practice. Across the globe, libraries, universities, research institutions, and information professionals are increasingly confronted with both the opportunities and challenges presented by these rapidly evolving technologies. As AI continues to reshape information environments, there is a growing need for critical reflection on how these technologies influence information access, literacy, ethical use of information, scholarly communication, and the future of library and information services. It is within this context that the 4th CARLIGH International Conference was organized under the theme “Enhancing Information Access in an Era of ChatGPT and Other Artificial Intelligence Technologies.” Held from 6th to 10th May 2024 at the GIMPA Executive Conference Centre in Accra, Ghana, the conference brought together librarians, researchers, educators, publishers, technology experts, policymakers, and information professionals to explore the implications of AI for information access and management. The discussions highlighted the transformative potential of AI while also raising important questions regarding ethics, equity, digital literacy, academic integrity, privacy, and institutional preparedness.
© Ibrahim K. Antwi, Mary Arkoful, Mac-Anthony Cobblah (Author) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The Ghana Library Journal (GLJ) is pleased to present Volume 31, Issue 1, a special issue dedicated to the theme “Enhancing Information Access in an Era of ChatGPT and Other Artificial Intelligence Technologies.” This issue brings together selected papers presented at the 4th CARLIGH International Conference, held from 6th to 10th May 2024 at the GIMPA Executive Conference Centre in Accra, Ghana. The conference provided an important platform for researchers, librarians, educators, information professionals, and technology experts to reflect on the opportunities and challenges emerging from the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence and its implications for information access, learning, research, and library services. The emergence of ChatGPT and other AI technologies has transformed the information landscape. In educational institutions, libraries, research environments, and professional settings, AI tools influence how information is discovered, accessed, evaluated, generated, and shared. While these developments offer exciting opportunities for enhancing service delivery, research productivity, and knowledge creation, they also raise essential questions regarding ethics, academic integrity, digital inclusion, information literacy, privacy, and equitable access. The papers in this special issue critically engage with these challenges and provide valuable insights into how libraries and information professionals can navigate this evolving landscape. The contributions examine various contemporary issues, including awareness and accessibility of electronic information resources, AI adoption in academic libraries, the use of AI tools in academic writing and research, and the role of librarians in promoting academic integrity in the age of generative AI. Together, these papers highlight the increasing relevance of AI within library and information services and underscore the critical role information professionals play in ensuring responsible, ethical, and inclusive technology deployment.
Role of Change Management in the Use of Disruptive Technologies by Academic Libraries in Nigeria
The rapid evolution of disruptive technologies has significantly impacted academic libraries worldwide, including those in Nigeria. This paper critically examines how effective change management acts as the key enabler for Nigerian academic libraries to harness disruptive technologies successfully. Through a literature and documentary review, the paper identifies trends, barriers, and the change management models most relevant to this context, specifically the Lewin, Kotter, and ADKAR models. The central argument highlights that robust change management strategies—not just technology adoption—are essential for sustaining positive transformation. Conclusions and recommendations emphasize regular staff training and sustained stakeholder funding as critical supports for continuous, successful change.
© Oluyinka Titilope Afolayan (Author) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Librarians’ Awarness, Perception and Disposition Towards the Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Nigeria Libraries
The study investigated librarians’ awareness and disposition towards the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Nigeria libraries. The study adopted the descriptive survey design method and the population of the study comprised a sample of 507 librarians from different types of libraries who attended the Nigeria Library Association (NLA) 62nd annual national conference/ AGM held On July 7th-12th, 2024. The target population is the total number of participants in the conference. The instrument used to obtain data from the respondents was questionnaire. A total of 507 surveys were issued to librarians, with 488 completed and returned, reflecting a 96.2% of the entire population. The questionnaire was analyzed using descriptive statistics, which was subjected to a criterion mean of 2.5 and above as accepted while below 2.5 is rejected. The findings of this study revealed that librarians are aware of the use of AI for library services on an average level. The findings also show that librarians have a positive disposition towards the adoption of AI but with some uncertainty on how the technology is going to affect their job. The result also shows that librarians perceive the benefits of AI in the library to include increase access to information resources and reduction of manual task for librarians. The perceived challenges, as reflected in the findings includes, fear of job loss, high cost of implementing AI systems and unstable electricity supply among others. It was concluded from the findings that librarians in Nigeria are averagely aware of the use of AI in libraries and also majority has a positive disposition towards its adoption. The study recommended that librarians should keep up with trends in the use of AI in libraries by acquiring new knowledge and skills that will prepare ahead of its adoption and use.
© Enite A. Urhefe-Okotie (Author) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Coming on board: the perception of newly employed librarians of their integration into academic libraries in Ghana
Academic libraries are essential for achieving the mandate of universities and colleges. These libraries support the teaching, learning, and research pursuits of the institution’s staff, faculty, and students. The sustainability of the academic library’s mandate largely depends on the caliber of staff employed to work in these spaces. Recruiting and retaining librarians to work in these academic libraries is critical for the continuity and delivery of satisfactory services to the university community. Integrating/onboarding newly employed librarians into academic libraries is essential as these librarians bring new ideas, skills, and perspectives that can help the library adapt to changing user needs and technological advances. This study sought to explore the process of integrating/onboarding newly employed librarians into academic libraries, identify the components of the integration/onboarding processes, and assess newly employed librarians’ perception of the integration/onboarding process on their work in academic libraries. The qualitative approach was employed in the study of integration/onboarding processes and to assess the perception of newly employed librarians of the integration/onboarding processes in academic libraries in Ghana. The purposive sampling technique was used to identify thirteen (13) newly employed professional librarians recruited during the 2021-2024 academic year who had undergone some integration/onboarding processes in their respective libraries. A semi-structured interview schedule guided the face-to-face interviews with the librarians from June 10 to August 09, 2024, lasting about 50 minutes each. The data collected was transcribed and thematically analysed reflexively using Nvivo Software Version 20 to identify codes and themes revealing patterns in the data and dominant themes. Findings from the study showed that academic libraries used meetings, orientations, and rotations as avenues for integrating/onboarding their newly employed librarians. The study also revealed that organizational culture, continuous professional development, teamwork/collaborations, mentorship, and career progression and promotion were discussed. From the study, the newly employed librarians perceived the integration/onboarding process to help build their interpersonal relations and develop a sense of acceptance and belonging, making them want to do their best to ensure the success of the academic library and their respective universities.
© Daniel Akwasi Afrane, Antonia Bernadette Donkor, Lydia Nyantakyi-Baah, Joseph Osei Ampadu (Author) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Investigating Information Literacy Self-Efficacy among Senior High School Visual Arts Students in Ghana
In today’s digitised era, the ability to competently navigate and utilise information, often termed ‘information literacy’, is a pivotal skill, especially for pre-tertiary visual art students. Their academic and artistic pursuits are significantly influenced by their capability to harness relevant information. This research sought to ascertain the degree of information literacy self-efficacy amongst pre-tertiary visual arts students and to discern the potential influence of specific sociodemographic indicators on their self-efficacy beliefs related to information literacy. The geographical focus of this inquiry was a curated selection of schools in Kumasi, Ghana. A cross-sectional survey study encompassed a sample size of n = 136 pre-tertiary visual arts students. The assessment utilised an information literacy self-efficacy scale complemented by several sociodemographic variables. Subsequent data analysis encompassed descriptive and inferential statistics facilitated via the Jamovi statistical software. The study’s outcomes revealed that these students exhibited moderate aptitude in basic information literacy and its associated competencies. However, a discernible dip was noted in their proficiency concerning advanced information literacy skills. This underscores the imperative for a more comprehensive integration of information literacy modules, especially within the affective learning spectrum, to cultivate innovative and adept information-seeking tendencies in these students. While the study’s scope precludes sweeping generalisations, the instruments employed have showcased potential as efficacious metrics to collate student-centric data, thereby enhancing individual and group educational outcomes. This research augments the academic understanding of information literacy and its bearing on the information-seeking patterns of pre-tertiary visual art students. By embedding these insights into pedagogical strategies, educators can champion a generation of artists well-versed in navigating the intricate tapestry of the information milieu.
© Prosper Setsoafia, Harry Barton Essel, Richard Bruce Lamptey, Francis Kofi Nimo Nunoo, Johnson Esi Eduafua , Grace Adasi Sintim, Akosua Tachie-Menson (Author) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Exploring the Benefits of Mobile Device Library services for University Students in Nigeria
This paper is a qualitative research study of literature insights, analysis and observations of mobile device libraries for the benefits of Nigerian university students. Specifically, the paper covered the concept and features of mobile device libraries, the state of University libraries in Nigeria, the role and relevance of mobile device libraries for university students in Nigeria, the challenges of mobile device libraries, and suggestions for the ways forward. The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) 1986 by Davis Fred is used to explore the benefits of mobile device libraries as it facilitates students’ beliefs and attitude about the usefulness and ease of use for their genuine utilization of mobile device library facilities. The paper acknowledged the low use of traditional library resources by students in preference for the uniqueness of the dynamic mobile device library resources and services. Several issues challenging the adoption and application of sustainable ICT facilities needed in Nigerian university libraries were discussed including the ways forward.
© Christopher Agbeniaru Omigie, Grace Eseohe Ebunuwele (Author) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
An Examination of Policies and Regulations Governing E-Records Management Systems in Tanzania; A case of Workers Compensation Fund
This study examined how organizational and national policies and regulations shape the operation of an Electronic Records Management System (ERMS) at the Workers Compensation Fund (WCF) in Tanzania. The study examined the effectiveness of the Electronic Records Management System (ERMS) in managing institutional records at the Workers Compensation Fund (WCF). The major goal was to examine the policies and laws that regulate the operation of ERMS on both at organizational and national level. Specifically, the study sought to analyze the existing policies and regulations that guide the implementation and use of e-records management system and proposed strategies for strengthening policies and regulations so as to enhance sustainable e-records management practices. The population included a total of 115 of workers’ compensation fund employees, in a sample size of 94 respondents which drawn from population. A descriptive study strategy, combining qualitative and quantitative research methods was used, whereby purposive and census sampling techniques were adopted. Data were collected using questionnaires, interviews, and observations. Both quantitative and qualitative data was performed using IBM SPSS Version 20 as well as Microsoft Word and Excel to assess the frequency and percentage of answers that corresponded to the research findings. The study revealed that Workers Compensation Fund follows various national rules and policies concerning ERMS. These include the Record and Archive Management Policy (2011), the ICT Policy (2005), and the Cybercrime Act (2015). Furthermore, the Access to Information Act of 2016, the Electronic Governance Act of 2019, and the Electronic Transactions Act of 2015 were deemed as extremely relevant and effective in guiding the management of ERMS. Overall, the rules and procedures in place at WCF were deemed very relevant and effective for controlling ERMS. Thus, the study suggested the compliance monitoring and accessibility of implementation of electronic records management system in terms of revise them time to time as well as provision of training and awareness on the integration and implementation of policies and regulations that are shaping e-records management system..
© Bertha Maturo (Author) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The Influence of Demographic Variables of Traditional Health Practitioners on Documentation of Indigenous Knowledge
Indigenous knowledge (IK) plays a crucial role in primary healthcare in many African communities. However, IK is gradually declining due to its predominantly oral transmission and a lack of interest from the younger generation. While various studies have examined IK, there is limited evidence on how demographic variables influence its documentation. This study investigated the relationship between demographic characteristics and the documentation of IK among traditional health practitioners (THPs) in Southwest Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was used to sample 362 THPs from a population of 3,850, applying the Yaro Yemane model. Data were collected through questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlation. Findings showed that the majority of respondents were male (73.2%), aged 51–60 (45.3%), married (97.8%), and had over 25 years of experience. Despite varying backgrounds, there was no significant correlation between gender, age, marital status, or other demographic variables and the documentation of IK. The study concludes that demographic factors do not significantly influence IK documentation among THPs, highlighting the need for more systemic interventions to preserve and document IK irrespective of demographic attributes
© Peter Olufemi Owoeye, Abdulwahab Olanrewaju Issa (Author) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Embracing Transformation, Technology, and Tradition in African Librarianship
It is with great pleasure that I introduce the November 2025 issue of the Ghana Library Journal (GLJ), a publication that continues to serve as a dynamic platform for disseminating scholarly research, professional insights, and innovations shaping library and information practice in Africa and beyond. This issue, Volume 30 Issue 3, captures the evolving intersections between technology, knowledge systems, and human experience in librarianship, offering both theoretical and practical contributions that speak to the diverse realities of our profession across the continent.
© Monica Mensah Danquah (Author) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
In 2024, the Department of Information Studies at the University of Ghana organized a landmark international conference under the theme “Fostering Research on Information Behaviour and Digital Literacy in Africa.” The conference provided a unique platform for scholars, practitioners, and policy experts to engage critically with emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in the evolving information landscape of the continent. Following the success of the conference, the Department formally proposed that selected papers from the event be considered for publication as a special issue of the Ghana Library Journal (GLJ). Upon receiving approval from the Council of the Ghana Library Association, which serves as the publisher of the journal, the editorial process was set in motion.
From Film to Files: Impact of Gerald Annan Photographic Collection
Gerald Annan Forson’s photographic collection deposited at the J. H. Kwabena Nketia Archives offers captivating socio-political, economic, urbanization and cultural lifestyle of the Ghanaian people. The collection serves as an invaluable resource to students, scholars and the public. Annan Forson’s distinct techniques and skills offer a unique insight and clear details of capturing two decades of Ghanaian presidential history and socio-political movement. Inside the helm of the socio-political activities of government includes the change of government from military to civilian and from civilian to military, government projects, dignitary visitations and meetings, rallies and protest, elections and physical landscape of Ghana. However, this paper explores two case studies, one is the discovery of an old band named the Kyirem Cultural Band and St George’s International School learning experience at the J. H. Kwabena Nketia Archives. The photographic collection reawakened and connected the band again to exhibit their talent. On the other hand, the collection offered students from St. George’s International School a pictorial understanding of what was studied in class about government as a subject. Ultimately, Annan Forson’s unique collection is resource poise to inspire and learn from diverse group of ages.
© George Gyasi Gyesaw (Author) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Digital Data Protection and Literacy for Ghana’s Digital Transformation Initiative: A Case Study of the E-Tax System
This study assessed digital data protection strategies and modalities for user support using the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) e-tax system as a case study. The community element of the Activity Theory guided the study. The study employed a qualitative research approach; hence, face-to-face key informant interviews and observation were used to gather the data. Purposive sampling was employed to sample three key informants as participants. The data was analysed using thematic analysis. Our findings show that GRA has recently seen a tremendous level of integration with other government agencies. Data generated for use and protection by GRA- include domestic tax, import taxes, tax identification, contracts, property tax and rates, and corporate tax data. The Authority uses a lock icon as an intervention on its website. Using security icons (security padlock and alert icon) helps users manage appropriate authentication credentials and preview updates on security and protection from cyber-attacks. We also found the client’s privacy policy, SSL certificate, secure cookies, login authentication, disclaimer alert, compliance with data protection, firewall security intervention, and protocols to validate form input in place to protect user data. However, they did not have a guide to support users, guided solutions on data recovery, and procedures to inform the community of alerts and updates. The Authority uses training, orientation, and social media campaigns to sensitise the community on digital data protection. The subscription to ISO standards readiness certification and the application of data loss prevention initiatives such as two-factor authentication, encryption, and data anonymisation were identified as best practices to improve security for clients using the e-portal platform. To enhance information security culture, our participants stated that the involvement of civil society actors could serve as translators on tax information and facilitate training to support tax literacy. Participants also suggested that resource availability would help increase awareness levels. Therefore, budgetary allocation for awareness and civic education should be made available to the Authority. They also recommended that dedicated content creators and human resources be engaged permanently to manage, create, and update social media platforms and the web portal. Therefore, the way forward is the call for digitally literate citizens as a cultural change and adoption guided by the community of practice initiative. Intensifying education, training, advocacy, and upskilling digital skills in data protection initiatives by collaborating with and engaging civil actors is imminent.
© Faustina K. Barfi, Angela Achiaa Aikins (Author) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Unlocking Dark Archives in Ghanaian Academic Institutions: Exploring Human-AI Collaboration as a Transformative Approach
Memory and heritage institutions in Ghana house invaluable repositories of historical records and cultural artifacts, yet many of these treasures are inaccessible dark archives (that is, unexplored or underutilised collections). This paper explores the potential of human-artificial intelligence (AI) collaboration as a transformative approach to unlock dark archives within academic institutions. Drawing on interdisciplinary perspectives from AI and cultural heritage preservation, the study examines the methodologies, challenges, and opportunities associated with leveraging AI technologies alongside human expertise in preserving information and knowledge for posterity. The study employs a qualitative methodology using empirical findings from the Institute of African Studies Library, University of Ghana. Furthermore, the research identifies key research objectives, including assessing the readiness of information professionals in Ghana to embrace AI technologies and archiving practices. The study provides insights and recommendations for policymakers, information professionals, and researchers seeking to harness the power of human-AI collaboration to unlock dark archives and bring them to light.
© Catherine Asamoah, Samuel Owusu-Ansah, Edwina Ashie-Nikoi (Author) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The Role of Digital Communication Tools on Patient Provider Interactions: A Case Study of Civil Service Clinic
This study investigated the role of digital communication tools on patient-provider interactions in the Civil Service Clinic. It aimed to understand how tools such as telemedicine, secure messaging, and patient portals influenced healthcare delivery in terms of accessibility, efficiency, and patient engagement. The findings revealed that these digital platforms improved communication by allowing patients quicker access to healthcare services and more convenient ways to engage with providers. However, challenges were identified, including a reduction in the personal connection between patients and providers, particularly in virtual consultations, as well as gaps in digital literacy that affected certain patient populations, such as older adults and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. Ethical concerns related to data privacy and security also emerged, underscoring the need for robust measures to protect sensitive health information. The study concluded that while digital communication tools offer numerous advantages, a balanced approach is required to ensure that they are accessible to all, safeguard patient data, and preserve the human aspect of healthcare, which remains essential for trust and empathy in patient care.
© Christian Kelly Lartey Mensah, Philip Kwaku Kankam (Author) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Mapping the Landscape of Open Science Research in Africa: A Bibliometric Analysis
This study conducted a comprehensive bibliometric analysis to map the landscape of open science research in Africa. Open science practices, including open-access publishing, open data sharing, open educational resources, open source, and open collaboration, have the potential to enhance scientific transparency, innovation, and collaboration. However, the adoption and implementation of open science principles vary across regions, and there is a need to understand the current state of open science research within the African context. A total of 302 datasets of documents from Scopus (Elsevier), from inception to 2023, were extracted, analysed, and visualised using software like MS Excel, Harzing’s Publish or Perish and VOSviewer. A team of information specialists crafted the requisite keywords and verified the final search strategy. The results showed an increasing trend in new documents in open science in Africa. The most active source titles were Library Philosophy and Practice with 17 (7.02%), followed by Open Access Implication for Sustainable Social, Political, and Economic Development, and the African Journal of Library, Archives, and Information Science with 8 (3.31%). South Africa and Nigeria were the most influential countries contributing 59 (19.54%) and 56 (18.54%) publications in the subject area, respectively. The most productive authors were Ezema, I. J., and Nwagwu, W.E. with four documents each. The University of South Africa and the University of Nigeria were the most influential institutions with a total of publications 17 and 13, respectively. The citation analysis of highly cited articles pointed out that Mentis et al. (2017) and Duan et al. (2019) were the most cited articles in the subject area with 140 and 100 cites, respectively. The keywords analysis showed that open access, Africa, and open data were the most frequently used author keywords with 49 (20.25%), 35 (14.46%), and 34 (14.05%) total publications, respectively. The co-occurrence of research terms revealed four clusters of interconnected concepts, thematically organised around open access, human, Africa, and open-source software. The research will enhance comprehension within the field and is anticipated to assist researchers, students, and educators in pinpointing research areas, developments, high-quality scientific literature, and suitable journals for disseminating their findings related to open science. Furthermore, the study gives insights into the present state of open science research in Africa, which will guide policies, financing strategies, and capacity-building programmes targeted at supporting open science practices and furthering scientific research and innovation across the continent.
© Samuel Ankamah, Vivian Amponsah, Francis Yeboah, Benjamin Nana Kwame Addo, Prince Yaw Vidza, Reuben Adjei (Author) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Librarians as Guiding Lights in the Digital Darkness: A Systematic Review of Libraries’ Provision of Digital Literacy Services
In an ever-evolving technological world, digital literacy has become a critical skill for navigating information ecosystems, protecting privacy online, and full and active participation in civic and economic life. This systematic review explores the evolving role of librarians and libraries as key providers of digital literacy services, viewing them as ‘guiding lights’ in tackling the challenges posed by the digital divide and misinformation. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines were adopted for the study. A total of 13 electronic databases were used to make a comprehensive search between the years 2004 and 2024. The databases EBSCO Host, Scopus, Web of Science, Emerald, LISTA, LISA, Elsevier, Google Scholar, ProQuest, Taylor & Francis, Springer Link, IEEE Xplore, and Wiley Inter-Science were chosen based on their focus on digital literacy research. A total of 259 papers were included in the review. Seven themes were developed from the review of the included studies. The themes include: digital inclusion initiatives, digital literacy training, e-resources support, virtual reference services, digital collection, challenges, and prospects. Under each major theme, sub-sub-themes were included to fully capture the nuances of the theme. The review concludes with recommendations for library professionals, policy makers, and educators to strengthen collaborative efforts and digitally inclusive strategies to combat the digital divide. The study also advocates for continual investment in librarians and libraries as stewards of equitable access to 21st-century digital skills.
© Monica Mensah Danquah, Alfred Ato Yankson, Elvis Bajamchana Bugase, Christian Yirenkyi Nyarko (Author) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0