Factors influencing the choice of librarianship as a course of study at the diploma level in Ghana

Abstract

The study investigate the factors that influence the choice of librarianship as a course of study at the diploma level in Ghana. The study also sought to find out if Interest had been engendered in librarianship after enrolling for the course and whether the students intended pursuing the course further to develop a career in librarianship. The population surveyed was the Diploma I & II classes of the Department of Information Studies, University of Ghana who were admitted in 2005/2006 academic year. Using data obtained through questionnaires, the study sought for information relating to their underground factors influencing the choice of librarian, interest in librarianship and pursuing librarianship as a career. The findings revealed that various factors account for the choice of librarians. These factors were mainly external with an opportunity for further education being the most prevalent. Other factors included association with librarians, experience in library work, a liking for books and the need for career change.