Information and Reference Services

Emerging information technologies have significantly influenced changes in teaching and learning, for example the change in the methods for communicating, managing and scheduling, and retrieving information. One of the benefits created by advancement in technologies is minimizing the gap in access to print library materials. The implementation of the subject guides and e-reserves is to allow lecturers to move from static to interactive course reading lists that allow students around-the-clock access to course reading materials.

E-Reserves and Subject Guides at Busitema University

In response to the library’s mission to signify excellence, while leveraging the power of ICTs for libraries, librarians at Busitema have taken the provision of reference services to the next level. We have adapted physical and virtual spaces to the changing technological and learning needs of Busitema community through maintaining, and planning for new, responsive learning environments. The latest is the implementation of the dynamic online subject guides and e-reserves. The framework for the subject guides and e-reserves works in the way that the systems are developed and maintained by the library staff while the content is updated in liaison with the lecturers.

Main Goal

a) Promote access to, and discovery of, library content and collections
b) Support teaching and learning programmes

Objectives

i) To enhance access to library content and collections, both print and digital
ii) To promote the use of information, instructional, and scholarly support services for students and academic staff by increasing the involvement of Campus Librarians into teaching and learning

Stakeholders and their roles

1) Lecturers – provide detailed teaching schedules/ lessons plans/ detailed teaching timetable/ course outlines and use the materials for their teaching
2) Librarians – provide content for the e-reserves and subject guides’ – and allow students around-the-clock access to course reading materials
3) Students – use the materials for their learning