Developing a Digital Engagement Strategy For Ghanaian University Libraries: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

Today, information in the modernized world has become much more accessible with the use of an online environment. Library and information services have fallen victim to the constant change in user needs. The study represented a framework that digital libraries can leverage to increase the usage and visibility of digital resources in university libraries. The adopted qualitative research aims to develop a digital engagement strategy for the libraries in the University of Ghana (UG). Data is collected from participants (digital librarians) who are key stakeholders of digital library service provision in the University of Ghana Library System (UGLS). It revealed that digital services included rare collections, e-journal, e-databases, e-books, microfilms, e-theses, and e-past questions. The author found out that engaging users to be more active rather than passive by optimizing digital library services, digital devices, literacy programmes/instructions, social media platforms, IT equipment, software, internet and establishing exchanges between users and the library. The feedback informs the university library of its offerings and helps solve library problems. The current book chapter contributes empirical, theoretical and practical ideas on digital user engagements and derives implications for pioneering research on digital engagement strategy (DES) in Ghana and DES applications in libraries. In conclusion, DES helps UGLS foster new relationships, connect with new audiences, and establish new or improved brand identity.