Abstract
Makerere University archives are kept in Makerere University Library (Maklib) but their utilisation is limited. This chapter reports the findings of a study that analysed the types of archives in Maklib and the extent of their utilisation. A mixed method approach of a questionnaire, observation, and documents analysis was used. The data obtained was analysed as descriptive statistics. The population of the study included 302 Maklib users who visited the Africana Special Collection Section between May and June 2017. The findings revealed that the scope of the archives collection is limited in time and content, few users, limited publicity of existing records, deplorable state of the paper records, and long waiting time for the information to be provided. Recommendations include widening the collection, digitisation of the archives, further development of human resources capacity, and initiation of outreach programmes to boost the archives visibility and attract users.
TopStatement Of The Problem
Makerere University Library’s mission is to meet the study, teaching and research information needs of its users (Makerere University Library, n.d.). In order to accomplish this mission, Maklib should collect, keep and make available the University archival records. However, previous studies on the utilisation of library resources in Maklib appear to have limited focus specifically on the University archival records collections (Kawalya, 2011, Musoke, 2010; Nakiganda (2009), Musoke and Kinengyere, 2008). There is hardly any literature about how the University archives in Maklib are utilised, yet resources are invested in their management. This study was, therefore, designed to provide empirical evidence on the nature of the University archival records in Maklib, their utilisation, the challenges faced by the users when accessing them and the innovative approaches that can be applied to promote their utilisation.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Archives Utilisation: Access to records.
Archives: These are records material preserved for their historical value.
University Archives: Records of historical value to a university because the information they contain provides evidence of important transactions and obligations.
University Archives Users: A section of the Library users who come to consult records on the past business of Makerere University.
Africana Special Collection: A section of the university library with a collection by Africans on Africa.
Uganda: Is a country in Africa which is zero degrees on the equator.
University Library: A specialized academic library institution for the university community and general public.