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PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS OF 
Al'TOMATING PUBLIC LIBRARIES: 
A study of the Accra Central Librar)'. 
BY 
ELIJAH AKUAMOAH MENSAH 
\ Di,wrlation submitted to the Department of Information Studies in 
p;Jrlial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of a Master of Arts 
Degn·e in Library Studies. 
lninrsity of Ghana. Legon 
.June, 2002. 
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PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS OF 
Al'TO~lATING PUBLIC LIBRARIES: 
A study of the Accra Central Library. 
BY 
ELIJAH AKUAMOAH MENSAH 
-\ Disserl;llion submitted to the Department of Information Studies in 
partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of a Master of Arts 
Degree in Library Studies. 
University of Ghaml. Legon 
.June,2002. 
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PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS OF 
Al 1TOMATING PUBLIC LIBRARIES: 
A study of the Accra Central Library. 
BY 
ELIJAH AKUAMOAH MENSAH 
.-\ Dissertation submitted to the Depnrtment of Informntion Studies in 
partinl fulfilmcnt of the requirements for the award of a Master of Art 
Degree in Library Studies. 
University of Ghaml, Legon 
.Junc, 2002. 
University of Ghana  http://ugspace.ug.edu.gh
University of Ghana  http://ugspace.ug.edu.gh
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LJt:LLAKATllJN 
I hl:rl:h~ dl:clare that. ""ith the exception of some references to other people's \"or 
which I have duly acknowledged. this study has entirely been my own and has never oe~ 
presented elsewhere. 
Apart from the suggestions received from my supervisor, I am fully responsible for an 
shortcomings and imperfections found in this study. 
dLP a.~ 
.... ~......................... . 
Elijah Akuamoah Mensah (Candidate) 
Mrs. Gitty Adika (Supcrvi~(\r) 
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OECLARA TlON 
I hl'reb) declare that. with the exception of some references to other people's "orl 
,,1;1.:11 I have duly acknowledged, this study has entirely been In} own and has never bee 
pr~'~i1ted elsewhere. 
Apart from the suggestions received from my supervisor, I am fully responsible for an 
shortcomings and imperfections found in this study. 
dLPa~ 
.... ~ ......................... . 
Elijah Akuamoah Mensah (Candidate) 
Mrs. Gitty Adika (Supervisor t 
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DECLARATION 
I hcrd\~ declarc that. "' ith the exception of some references to other people' S \"orl 
which I have duly ackmmledged. this study has entire.ly been my own and has never he\! 
rrc~ci1ted elsewhere. 
Apan from the suggestions received from my supervisor, I am fully responsible tor an 
shoncomings and imperfections found in this study. 
dLP a.~ 
.... ~ ......................... . 
Elijah Akuamoah Mensah (Candidate) 
Mrs. (jitiy Adika (Supcn i!>!ll I 
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DEC LARA TION 
I 
I he,'., d,d,,,, th.t. w;th the except;o" of ,ome ref",",,, to other people, wor~ 
II hich I have duly acknowledged. this study has entirely been my own and has never heell 
prc>cilted elsev,here. 
\ran from the suggestions received from my supervi50r, I am fully responsible for an)i 
shortcomings and imperfections found in this study. 
dLP a.~ 
.... ~ ......................... . 
Elijah Akuamoah Mensah (Candidate) 
Mrs. Gifty Adika ("11I1CII j'''1 I 
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ii 
DEDICATION 
[HI~ WORK IS DEDICATED TO MY DAUGHTER MAAME OWUSUA AND TO MY WIFE FOR 
HER UNDERSTANDING AND ENCOURGEMENT. 
ro MY GRAND MOTHER WHO HAD LIVED LONG ENOUGH TO 
SEE THE FRIUTS SHE SOWED SOME DECADES AGO. 
TO MY PARENTS. BROTHERS AND SISTERS FOR THEIR 
ENCOURGEMENT AND ASSISTANCE. 
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 
Ih;< worl< h" boon SUCOOSSfU,' because of ;nd;spensab'e ,,:;srance obtamed "om ~,m~ 
friends and experts. I am particularly grateful to my supervisor and lectUl er. Mrs. Glft~ 
t\dika for her direction. suggestions and painstakingly reading through the manuscript. I 
I 
I am equally grateful to all the lecturers of the Department of Information Studies fori 
I 
their useful contributions and diverse support during the early stages of the work. ! 
\1~ '1lKnc thanks to Mrs. Rose B. Bofah and Mrs. Sarah Kandah, former actingi 
Directllrs of the Ghana Library Board respectively for their unfailing advice and i 
encouragements. 
\ IJitionally. the tollowing need special attention for their immeasurable assistance: Miss 
Hil l \\l1. the librarian at the Department of Information Studies library who made 
~1\;ljlahlc the necessary reference materials for the work, Mr. Charles K. A. Osei. a Civil 
,\ "lllldliral FI1~il1ccr of Constel Engineering Consultancy who voluntarily gave his 
,\fI~11 I mhiba laptop computer for typesetting during the entire period of the work and 
, lll:tll: (ilJeol1 Baah-Boateng who offered me a lot of help to make this study ,\ 
";",' I 1:I,tll~. I IVould like to thank Mr. Danny Otoo-Asare of Ghana Civil Aviatioll 
\ 1I11;, <I : 1\ '''I' his assistance. encouragement and suggestions. 
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iv 
TABLE OF CONTENTS 
PAGE 
Declaration 
Dedication ii 
\l!..lllm kJgclllcnl iii 
Table of Contents iv 
list of Tables ix 
L. ist of Appendices x 
List of Abbreviations xi 
Abstract xii 
I.U CHAPTF.R ONE: JNTRODUCTION 
J. J '"ll"11duction 
J.2 St.tlement of the problem 3 
1.3 J'II rposc of the study .:I 
I A Ohjcctins of the study .:I 
I.S Scopes and limitation of the study .:I 
1.6 Literature rc\ie\\ 5 
1.7 Vlethodology 10 
1.7.1 Population II 
1.7.2 Sample II 
'."7.~ Data collection 12 
'"'A Dat:l amlly.~i, 12 
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v 
1.8 Significance of the studies 12 
1.9 Organization of chapters 13 
References 14 
2.0 CHAPTER TWO: PUBLIC LIBRARY SERVICES IN GHANA AND 
SYSTEMS FOR AUTOMATING PUBLIC LIBRARIES 
2.1 Ikid history of I)ublic libraries ill Gh~lna 16 
1.1.1 The Accra Central Library 20 
2.1.2 Facilities at the Accra Central Library 23 
2.1.2.1 Seating facilities at tlte Accra Central Libral"), •.. 23 
2.1.2.1 Shelves 24 
2.1.2.3 Trolleys H 
2.1.2.4 Catalogue cabinets 25 
2.1.2.5 Display boards 25 
2.1.3 Stock 25 
2.1.3.1 Books 26 
2.1.3.2 l'eriodical/Newspupers 26 
2.1.4 Staffing 27 
2.1.4.1 Professional library staff 21'1 
2.1.4.2 Sub-professional library staff 28 
2.1.4.3 Supporting .~taff 
2.2 Automation systems in puhlic libraries 
2" 
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vi 
2.2.1 In-house systems ...... 30 
2.2.2 Turnkey system 31 
2.2.3 Integrated system 32 
2.3 Public library management system 33 
2.3.1 Ordering & acquisition system 34 
2.3.2 Cataloguing processes 36 
2.3.3 Circulation control & document delivery system 38 
2.3.4 Serial control 39 
2.4 The Impact of computers in public libraries 41 
References 43 
3.0 CHAPTER THREE: ANALYSIS OF DATA AND PRESENTATION OF 
RESULTS 
3.1 Responses From the Library Clientele 45 
3.1.1 Professional rank of users of the Accra Central Library '" 45 
3.1.2 Frequency ofvisit 46 
3.1.3 Years ofusing the Accra Central Library 46 
3.1.4 Services used at the library 47 
3.1.5 Why the use of computer catalogue 48 
3.1.6 Assessment ofavailable facilities 48 
3.1.7 Current services of information provision 49 
3.1.8 The effect of computer systems in library operation 50 
3.2 Responses from the staff of the Accra Central Library ...... 51 
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vii 
3.2.1 Department of respondents ...... 51 
3.2.2 Number of years at Accra Central Library ...... 51 
3.2.3 Professional rank of library staff ...... 52 
3.2.4 Searches in the catalogue ...... 53 
3.2.5 Problems encountered when locating books 
on the shelf ...... 54 
3.2.6 Problcms encountered when locating materials 
in the library ...... 54 
3.2.7 Satisfaction of services by clientele ...... 55 
3.2.8 Types of clientele's satisfllction ...... 55 
3.2.9 Clientele's not satisfied ...... 55 
3.2. III Computer literacy ...... 55 
3.2.11 The purpose of computer use ...... 56 
3.2.12 Automation of the Accra Central Library ...... 56 
3.2.13 Library routines automation ...... 56 
3.2.14 Why automation of library processes ...... 57 
3.1.15 .Job threatening ...... 58 
3.2.16 Resources that support automation ...... 58 
3.2.17 F:lctors that hinders automation '" ... 59 
3.3 l{e'pOJlSl'S From the Director of Public library Services ...... 59 
3.3.1 Computers at the Acera Central Library ...... 6U 
3.3.2 Automation of the Accra Central Librllry ...... 60 
3.3.3 Per~()nnel of the ACCrll Central Lihr:. . .. .... 60 
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viii 
3.3.4 Automation of library operation ...... 61 
3.3.5 Effects of automation at the Accra Central Library .. , ... 61 
3.3.6 Management position on computer application .. , ... 61 
4.U CHAPTER FOUR: DISCUSSIONS, SUMMARY OF RESULTS, 
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 
4.1 Discussion of problems related to automating the Accra 
Central Library ...... 63 
4.1.1 Financial problems ...... 63 
4.1.2 Personnel problems ...... 64 
4.1.3 Attitudinal problems ...... M 
4.1.4 Stable power supply ...... 65 
4.2 4.2 Iliscussion of prospects related to automating the Accra 
Central Library ...... 65 
4.3 Summary of results ...... 66 
4.4 <onclusion ...... 67 
4.5 Recommendation ...... 68 
Bibliography ...... 70 
\(l[lcntlix 'A' - The book stock at the Accra Central Library ...... 73 
\PPl'IIIJi\ 'W - Questionnaire for library clientele ...... 74 
\(l[lcndix 'C' - Questionn:lire for library staff 
.........1 ) 
\fl(lcndi\ 'I)' -Inteniew for Ilirl'ctor of Library Services 
... '" S4 
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ix 
LIST OF TABLES 
Pa~ 
Tabk 2.1 - Seating facilities at the Accra Central Library 2· 
Table 2.2 - Staff Situation at the Accra Central Library 21 
Table 3.1 - Perception of library clienteles on issues relating 
automation 045 
Table 3.2- Frequency ofvisit by library clientele 46 
Table 3.3- Years of using the Accra Central Library o4i 
Table 3.4- Responses on the use of the computer catalogue 48 
Table 3.5- Assessment of the available resources 49 
Table 3.6- The effect of compute,' systems ill librnry operation ... 50 
Table 3."7 - Number of years as a staff at the library 52 
Table 3.8 - Professional rank of the library starf 52 
I able 3.9 - Searches in the library catalogue 53 
Table 3.10- Problems encountered when locating materials 54 
Table 3.11 - Automation of library routines 57 
I ahle 3.12- Why autonwting of library routine 57 
Tahle 3.J3 - Resources that support automation 58 
Table 3.1" - Factors that hinder automation 59 
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x 
LIST OF APPENDICES 
Page 
Appendix A - The book stock at the Accra Central Library 72 
Appendix B - Questionnaire for library clientele 73 
Appendix C - Questionnaire for library staff 78 
Appendix D - Interview for the Director of Library Services 83 
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xi 
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS 
.\LS Automated Library Services 
CD-ROM Compact Disk Read Only Memory 
CLSI Computer Library System Incorporated 
eTI Computer Translation Incorporated 
URA Data Research Associates 
nSI Dataphase Systems Incorporated 
(aiLS Gnylord Universal Library System 
GIS Ghana International School 
GLB Ghana Library Board 
IS()S International Serial Data System 
MAI{c Machine Readable Catalogue 
OPAC On-line Public Access Catalogue 
SOS-HGK - SOS Hermann Gmeiner International College 
l'SIS United States Information Services 
VUU Video ()isplay Unit 
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xii 
ABSTRACT 
I hl' \.'.\plosion in the quantity of information in this era of Information Technology calls 
,. \I ,) 11\.'\\ response in public library operations. Public libraries as information centers. 
must automate their operations in order to meet the challenges of today's information 
provision. 
I his study \H1S conducted to investigate the prospects of automating public libraries. 
the problems that hinder automating public libraries with particular reference to the' 
Accra Central Library. 
I he methodology adopted for the collection of data was the cross-sectional survey. The 
"'lIll, 01 Ih\! study indicate that, among the problems hindcrillg the automation of the 
\cera Central LibraI') are lack of adequate funds from the central government to 
. ",'chanl/e iI' ~ library operations, attitude of the library staff for a change and shortage of 
'ii,,' I'L'I"'llild to operate computer systems, The study revealed that. prompt and 
,: Ii, IL'III pro\ isian of information is among the prospects oflibrary automation. 
!l,I',,, "11 Ihes\! conclusions, recommendations were made to the central government and 
I" 1'lli,I" :Ihldr~ admini,trators on procedures to guide automating public libraries in 
\ 1l'lI til Ihe current information age in which we find ourselves, 
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t.O CHAPTER ONE 
, 
t.1 INTRODUCTION 'II 
I 
Prompt and efficient provisions of information or documents are the most importan~ 
functions of the library tOd~y, Librarian.s have ~o~ked for a .Iong ~ime toward perform in 
these functions more effectively and satisfactorily In the service of users. 
I 
Rt:I:t:nt developments ill intol'mation technology related to the production. transfer. \ 
I 
processing ,md presentation of information based on a combination of computer \ 
tdewmmunication technologies has opened a new way for automation of libraries. 
1I II I Ihranan Thesaurus (1990) defines automation as "the automatic operation or 
,,,,11101 ul processes. equipment or systems, It includes the totality of mechanical and 
t:ieclronic techniques and equipment used to achieve such operation or control. In 
lihraries. il is a tool used to make procedures more efficient and materials more available 
";,1 h' l'rl1\ Ilk services not previously possible using manual methods", 
I Ibrant:~ arc generally categorized according to their clientele or the institution they are 
"l.lll'd 10 serve, C(lIl<.:t:ptuaII) . a public library is an agency established hy a 
':I:I'llll\',11>:: . ((lunt) or region to provide materials and services to all residents within the 
111I1'llllll",1 (\1urison. 1988). In some cases, state statutes legally define public librarit:~. 
~.I \t;ilt:~. funding for public libraries comes primarily from the local 
'. ~~II III,' \latc and federal sources possibly providing additional funding. 
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I'uhlic lihraries are acknowledged to be an indispensable part of the community lite as 
promoters of literacy, providers of a wide range of reading for all ages and centers lor 
community information services. They provide well-stocked reference libraries and a 
wide range loan services based on systems of branch libraries. 
The explosion in the quantity, cost and communication of information in this era of 
information technology calls for a new response in public libraries operations. Among 
these must he a willingness to embrace new technology and accept change. Wilson (1988), 
ell1phasized that majority of the problems in intormation centers such as libraries are being 
overcomc with the introduction of computers in libraries operation. Therefore it has 
h":cUIllC prudent to many information servers that library automation is the answer to 
11lJa~'s information explosion. 
Some libraries in Ghana have either partially or fully automated their operations. 
According to Kedem (1990). library automaton in Ghana around the late 80's and earl~ 
l)(}', \\ a~ relatively a new concept and not much was done to use the computer t()r 
,',: ""!Ulil '11 ,Wrage and retrieval. but today. libraries have gained some awareness of the 
;"',1111.11 III which the computer can be used in the library. The partial automated 
i:hd: I,', In Ghana include University of Ghana's Balme Library. British Council Library. 
I 111:,,1 "!.ltc:, Information Services (U.S.I.S.) Martin Luther King Jr, Library whilst the 
II, ,Illllllllatcd libraries includes SOS-Hernanl1 Gmeiner International College'., (SOS-
11< d( I I li'I';[1'\ and Ghana International School'~ (G,I S) Library, Unfortunatel). none III 
lile '1~1\":-(l\\neJ plIhli( lihl<lrlc" ill (ihana have automated theil' operations. hmld!Ver ,om~ 
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special and academic libraries have either partially or fully automated their operations. 
(Kedem. 19(0) 
Ilassan (1992). pointed out that, many libraries have found over the years that. the~ have 
been unable to recruit more library staff but that their workload have increased in the 
lihrary patrons or by acquiring more or by the library and it's services being used more. 
In order to cope with such a situation, many libraries have decided to lise computer 
systelll,. 
12 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM 
The Accra Central Library, the largest public library in Ghana finds it extremely ditlicult 
'LT\ ing the public adequately as a result of the continual usage of manual methods in its 
Ilhrar~ operations. The challenge of efficient service delivery in today's information 
prm ision calls for automation of library processes. According to Hassan (1992). 
automation of libraries processes have been known to reduce cost. save time and energy 
and enhances etliciency in many library operations. Despite these benefits, it is not easy to 
,lut"lllale public libraries. It is also an extremely expensive project. Looking at the funds 
l'lIhll( Idx<lri.:, In Ghana receive from the central government. these funds are woefully 
inadequate to share computer services and combined individual library systems into totally 
II:tl'~I,II,,! "il'lll (Mason, 1971), 
I il.: 111,1111 h'lll' lli'lhis research is 10 highlight the prospects and problems of public library 
;llItlllll<l1l1111 Jnd make suggestions on the best approach for automating the Accra Cl.!lllral 
I ibr;lr\', ('I'LTcltion' 
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1.3 PURPOSE OF THE STUD' 
l ;sing computers to provide access to intormation has become the principal goal and 
coping with this new technology is the principal demand of many information centers 
toda~. The development of computer - based library system has been to save money. time. 
energy and provide better services to both library staff and library users at a lesser or no 
cost at all. This means public libraries in Ghana need to change the manual - based 
library operations in order to achieve better services associated with computer - based 
library operations. Again. computer - based library systems are known to put economic 
I:Un~traint on most libraries. (Brett. 1996). Therefore the purpose of this research is to 
highlight the prospects and problems of public library automations in Ghana. 
1.4 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY 
rhe objectives of the study are to; 
(a) Investigate plans for automating the Accra Central Library if any; 
Ihl luentil\ existing library facilities; 
',I 1,h.:l1tll~ 1;.Ktors that militate against automation in the Accra Central Library; 
(u) Identify factors that support the automation of the Accra Central Library; 
Il'l 111\ estigate how automation will enhance library aCtivities. 
1.5 SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY 
1111,lIllI.:1 clln,traint and time available for this study (three months) did not allow 
':\P~II1'I\': 'Iud~ of every aspect of automating public libraries. 
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The study however covered all the Hbrary operations in the Lending, Reference. 
Children's and Extension departments of the Accra Central Library. 
1.6 LITERATURE REVIEW 
Public library operations consist of the following major processes carried out with the aim 
(11 making the collections and other sources of information available to users: selection 
,1I1e1 acquisition: cataloguing: classification; indexing; searching; locating and retrieving; 
~1I1J circulation (Wilson. 1988), White (1998) sees the public library as the principal means 
where the record of man's thoughts and ideas and the expression of his creative 
Imaginations, are made freely available to all. Again, he stressed that, the public libraries 
,11'( (Olll,:crned with the refreshment of man's spirit by the provision of books for relaxation 
,IIlJ pb'lIr~, with provision of up-to-date technical. scientific and sociological 
information, 
k Ilnhc'l I 1')X41. indicated that science has created new forms of record and these would 
!lC'ltll11( an increasing part of the public library's stock, including.print in reduced tonn for 
lompact storage and transport, films slides, gramophone records, audio. and video tape. for 
"1111,, and children. and computers, with necessary equipment for individual use and lor 
• ',IIIII'~t1 .Ktivities, Rowley (1993). stated that .• information technology has fundamentally 
,: k, I,,! Ih l· tlperations or library and information services., ,and that it is appropriate to 
.' '1i11'lIt.:r applications to libr~II': and information ,ervices as all integratl'u 
""I'llng intormatioll professional~ 111 the lJndCr~lal,,'lI1g of development~ in 
'pt:ClI'll "'ll'lm and their abil ity to predict trends", One of the characteristics of this lime 
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i~ that. the emphasis is shifting away from the library as a 'place' or 'holding' toward tl 
information 10 which il can provide access. 
The expansion of user numbers with a diminishing unit of resources under increasing 
centralized funding control has made automations in public libraries seen like a lifeline. 
(Follett report. 1993). The rush to wire public libraries to allow greater use of computel 
based learning and streamlined administration service comes at a time when publi 
libraries want access to ever increasing range of electronic information services. (Gardne 
ct al. 11)1)3). Follett report. (1993) made it clear that public libraries have a future. but a 
increasingly electronic one. He emphasized the need to see librarians as central players il 
thl' development of information strategy, based on information technology. 
111 Ireland lor example. access to outside information resources such as \.:atalogu~ 
,I,II:lha~e~ located in other libraries and Oil-line information services and communicatior 
\,11 ,l{hcr libraries via network can be found in most public libraries. (Gaudet. 1987) 
\ 
\1,11111'" I 1')'iJ) pointed out that, users of some public libraries in United Kingdom ma) 
,"/.. lor more in integrated library system. These include; "circulation control: public 
,lllC" catalogue. MARC record capability; acquisition handling; reserve book control 
I,,, 1111 'CII;! 1 l< l11trol: local reference Ii les and community information accessible on.line 
l'kllllllill Illai/: remote terminal access to outside databases; access to any (lther library 
,111"1111:IIC" ",tCI11: rersonnel work statistics; staff scheduling; interface to bibliographic 
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Another development based on modern teehnofogy is the local area networks. Through 
this technology. which enables units within a library to be interconnected, with more 
efficient resources sharing in view. (Hooker. 1985). Information technology has also gone 
beyond the provision of secondary information like that in bibliographic databases and 
today many libraries are lIsing electronic or telefacsimile to transmit request for 
interlibrar~ knding and document delivery, (Guernsey, 1996). He pointed OLit that. library 
automation has changed libraries drastically, and the computer has become essential 
equipment for librarians. At the same time. electronic publications are increasing and 
libraries acquire and offer these publications even though most libraries still do this on an 
,'j1l'lilllental basis. (Dickman. 1993). He pointed out that, many librarians might agree on 
the" lew that these developments are an inevitable step that should in due course lead to 
the full-fledged electronic library. 
In other countries such as India. public libraries have funded several training programs 
;IIlJ soft\\ are development projects. which have played an important role in increasing 
.11', 11,'lIl'" Ill' the potential of the library automation (Vyas. 1997). He stressed that. "Their 
.",<1, -':ll1j1ha!>i~ \las on database and information retrieval services" Dowlin (1988). 
IJclltilied seven benetits public libraries derive from automation, these include 
il· 'II '<'~l'cril1g. information access. managcment. communications, publishing. 
1,'1 '1111.11' III'~ ;iIHj computer-assisted instruction. In Malta Rrctt (19(6) rcrorted the 
'I', 'lIlnc~~ 0" publ ic library automation, He stated "the difficulty patrons of most libraries-
Ll:rt~11111: tho"c of public libraries - h not to accept a definition of access to materi<ll that 
1Clfl1ll'C' 'llillcthing other than immediate delivery", According to Wilson (1988). the 
Jc\clopmellt III ((lInruter-h3,ed lihl'al: s:stem in Canada has been to save money. time 
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t:nerg~ and prov ide better services to both the library staff and library users at a lesser or 
111 Mnllchester Public Library. Internet access is charged for by the hour. In practice this is 
meant to cover the increased cost to the library of telephone charges but there is the 
rOlenti;tI to generate extra income from the service. Printouts from the CD-ROM 
SI:arching on the network generate income, with sheet charge at 20 pence. (Manchester 
City Council Art & Leisure Committee, 1995). Among the benefits of introducing 
computer~ in Manchester Public Library include: "improved quality; better 
wmmunications; improved management information and decision making; improved and 
<:xtcndcd services for libraI') users; greater control and standardization; risk reduction; 
'1111'1(1\ ed cost benetit: greater efliciency; last but not the least. increased income." 
,\LlIllil~',kr City Council Art & Leisure Committee, 1995). 
\LW" to information will not be available to significant number of users ill the future if 
the cost of equipment. software and on-line charges are too high. (Thompson. 1997). 
Puhlic libraries mllst provide terminal that are available and free or cheap to use to 
~()lIl1teract this disadvantage. The provision of computers in public libraries for use by the 
l'lIhllc "ilh the range of popular software sllch as word processing and spreadshl.!ct an: 
hCLllllllllS more routine. (Thompson, 1997). The provision of e-mail and bulletin board 
:,ILIIII,,·, \\(\uld <1l1m\- member~ or the library to communicate with the stair. with each 
(lther lI~crs in remote libraries. (Zahiruddin.1996). 
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The wmplex problem facing public libraries is their inability to purchase everything that 
l1li~ht b.: needed by their patrons. The neat. and plausil' situation to the problem is 
resource sharing which may take the form of a system, a network or automation (Ballard. 
1982). Computer-based information retrieval system offers more convenient. more 
flexible and more comprehensive retrieval than manual information-storage and retrieval 
system. It also leads to standardization, efficiency, cooperation and improved services. 
(Rowle).I(N3). 
l.ibrary automation is an expensive project to undertake, Badu (1989), emphasiz~d thai 
automation involves the establishment of a computer management unit and the training of 
l'~r")l1l1d of the library: the cost of the computer systems and telecommunication 
~qUIJ)III(llt and their installation: last but not the least, the cost of maintaining and 
changing outmoded systems as new systems are being designed day in and day out makes 
puhlll !Ibrary automation an expensive project. 
In spit~ ul many benefits of public library automation in other parts of the world, Austin 
I I( )X3) identitied setbacks facing many automated libraries. He saw the problem or 
l'l'l "lfllld to man the system. These include professionals such as data processing 
111<111Jger. system analyst. programmer, data preparation operator, computer operators and 
l'r"lL'"il1~ database control clerks among others. Bill (1994) saw the cost of the 
-:LJ UIJ,111L'II! a, a major problem in public library automation. As the funds alillcateJ tn these 
public libraries kept Oil Jwindling. most public libraries cannot meet the initial cost or the 
equipment. the Lost or central air-conditioner. the cost of cabling, maintenance Lll11ont! 
nther." .\ cLordlll~ !n \\hite (1996 I. Ii mited vendor ';upport is a prohlelll, lie ideot itied 
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high (llmputer illiteracy among librarians. and the attitude of some staff against computel 
introduction as a result offear of their job. 
Automation requires a change in the way public libraries operate and impos'es a nev" 
culture on the library, Poor integration or lack of integration system may lead to poor data 
management which in tend can cause duplication of effort with.in the library servic~~. 
inaccuracy and inadequate information for management for decision-making. (Herring, 
1998). Poor planning may leave system with a shorter than expected life span and money 
may be spent developing systems more often than is necessary. (Herring, 1998). As the 
automation hecome more commonplace, the need to monitor the health and safety of 
Visual Display Unit (VDU) has become increasingly important. In 1993, the Union of 
Communication Workers in the United Kingdom published the result of a large survey of 
VOL I wurkcr~ (about 13)00 respondents) in which 50% reported eye irritation and some 
eyesight related problem since using VDU. (fV!.orris. 1998). He continued that over 60cri, 
<11'0 suffered li'om headache and stress related problem. Neck and back were the site of 
most muscular problems, 
1.7 METHODOLOGY 
i he: I\:')carlh methodology involved the collection of data \rom the staff of Accra Central 
I Ihlar~ and the library clienteles by the use of questionnaires. These were supplemented 
1\ ith an interview of the director of Public Library Services. The data collected from the 
L\lI,·,t l\'llllalrc~ were analyzed using statistical methods. such as. frequencies and 
,IIII,"i''''ldil1C: I','!"(cntae-:' II 1'rL' c'lll1lJ1uted for the number or responses to a particular 
qllC'lIPIl 111,"c II l'rC then prescntcd III the limll of tables 10 illustrate morc clearl) til,. 
III 
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results of the studies. Major issues extracted from the interview were incorporated into the 
findings. 
1.7.1 POPULATION 
The population for th is study comprises the patrons and library staff of the Accra Central 
Library in the Greater Accra Region. These could be categorized as follows; 
(a) The library patrons, 600 in ali, consisting of; 
(i) Registered members of the Lending, Children's, and Extension 
departments from September 200 I to February 2002 numbering 390. The 
breakdowns were as follows; 
Lcnding deprutment ......... 23~ 
Children's department ...... 110 
Extension department....... 50. 
I II) rhe average number of library patrons that li. J the reference departmcnt 
~\er~day. although not registered members of the library, over a period of six months -
I \cptcmber 200 I-February 2002) these numbered approx.imate/y 210 patrons: 
(b) Library staff comprising the various heads of departments - Lending, Reference, 
Children's and Extension, the Acting Director of Public Library Services and other 
para - professionals numbering 40. 
I ill!' the total ropulation for the research is 640. 
1.7.2 SAMPLE 
I (1 d'l~il1 ~I rerrcsentative sample for data collection, 40% of the population stratified into 
patml1, and ,tatl was taken. Forty percent each of patrons and staff could he categorized 
II 
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(a) 1\\0 hundred and forty library (240) patrons; 
t h) Sixteen ( 16) library staff including the Acting Director of Public Library Services. 
1.7.3 DATA COLLECTION 
Data were collected using questionnaires and supplemented with an interview. Both'i1-
library staff (excluding the director of Public Library Services) and patrons were give 
questionnaires. Two sets of questionnaires were designed and distributed to a total of tw 
hundred and litty-five respondents made up of two hundred and forty (240) library patror 
I' "~I I'liken (15) libraI') staff. These questionnaires were designed to know respondent~ 
opinion. vie\\ sand wmmenh on the prospects and problems of automating the ACCI 
l elltral Librar). The Acting Director of Public Library Services was interviewed to kno' 
IllT I lell s on the prospects and problems of automating the A era Central Library. 
1.7.4 DATA ANALYSIS 
Ille data from the questionnaires were analyzed using descriptive statistics in order l 
help identify and establish facts that come from the studies, Frequem;it:s an 
UllTl"pllnJing pen;t:l1tages were computed for the number of respondents that anS\lI;ere 
'Pl'lilil qucstions. This was then presented in the form of tables to illustrate more c1earl 
Ih<.: Il'lIlh III the studies, Major issues extracted from the interview were incorporated int 
1.8 SIG~IFlCANCE OF THE STUDY 
Computer, has come to he u'l'd lor almost all tasks carried out in the librar~ 
acquisition .... cataloguing. sC~lrchil1g. circulation, rd't:rence services among others . 
.~  
- - ....... \i.~. 
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rhe slUdy identified the problems associated with the automations of public libraries in 
term, lit" the installation of the computer. maintenance, computer professionals and 
vendors Slipport. The study also highlights the prospects in automation in terms enhancing 
library services in public library operations. 
1.9 ORGANISATION OF CHARTERS 
I he study has been organized into tour chapters-
Chapter one introduces the study and gives the background and statement of tht: problem. 
It also states the purpose of the study, objectives of the study. cope and limitations orthe 
study. Literature review, methodology and significance of the study are also included in 
~haptcr one. 
Chapter Iwo tocuses on the development of public library services in Ghana and describes 
automation systems for public librarie~. 
1 h,lpler tlm:e reports the analysis of data and provides and discusses the findings of the 
,tud: 
\ luptn filll!' discllsses the problems and prospects of automating the Accra Central 
I Ihr~II:. It ends with a summary and conclusion and makes recommendations for further 
I, 
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REFERENCES 
AUSTI N. J. E. "Training for Automated Circulation System: The New Zealand 
Experience" Asilb Proceedings Vol. 40. No.4 (1983). 
BADLJ. E. E. "The Use of Computers in Ghana Libraries, "Ghana Library Journal Vol. 
VIII (Nov. 1989) pp.30-35 
BALLARD, A. A "CONCERT: A Communication Network for the future." 
CONCERT. Notes 1 (I): (1982). pp.2-3. 
BILL. A. D. "Integrated systems: Dream vs. Reality." Library Journal 109 (12): 1302-
1303(1982). 
BRI~TT, P. T. Systems Library. Milan. MEDSlfMc Graw-Hill. (1996). 
DOWL/N C.F. "Local Area Network: Colorado's IRVING PROJECT," Wilson Libral'\ 
Bulletin. 60 (September, 1988.): 38·42. 
I· 01. 1.II, J. Joint Funding Council's Library Review: Repolt. Bristol: Steer Press, (1993). 
GARDNER. 1., FUTTON. J and BEST J. 'Trends and Tensions In IT Policy in 
Universities'. Higher Education Ouarterly, Vol. 47, No.3, (1993). pp. 259-73. 
GAUDET. J. A. "Automation the Circulation Services of a Small Library," Library 
Resources and Technical Services Vol. 31, No.3. (1987), pp.349-355. 
(iLJERNSEY . .I. "The Information Professions in the Electronic Age" London Clive 
Illl1gle) I.imited. (1993). p.67. 
HERRIN<i . .I. E. School Librarianship 2nd ed. London: Stanley Publishers, London. 
; I( II li-':I R. I·. "Local !\rea Networking: Colorado's Irvi"~ Project." Wibon I ibrar~ 
Illlll-:llll o() (September. 1996), pp. 38-42. 
1-1 
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KEDEM. K. A. Application of computer technology in the libraries of Ghana. In Journal 
of Information science PriAeipJes and practice. Vo1.16. No.6 (1990). pp.345-351. 
MANCHESTER City Council Art and Leisure Committee. IT Strategy Statement 1995. 
MURISON. S. Computer-Based Library System 2nd edition. Toronto; Wiley Heyde 
Limited. ( 1988). 
fHOMPSON. V. "Training for Automated Circulation Systems: The New Zealand 
Experience." Aslib Proceedings Vol. 49, No.2. (1997). 
WHITE. S. T. Computers 2nd edition. Belmont; Wadsworth Publication Co., (1996). 
WILSON. M. Networking An extension Publication of New State College, 
Nev. York. ( 1988). 
\·yA ..... K. Alitomation and Networking in India, London; The Ronald 
Press Company. ( 1997). 
/ \llIRUI)DIN, K. "Managing a Library Automation Project," Aslib Vol. 
IX. '\n.1 ( 1')')8). pp.23-28. 
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CHAPTER TWO 
HISTORY OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF PUBLIC LIBRARY SERVICES IN 
GHANA AND AUTOMATION OF PUBLIC LIBRARIES 
2.1 BRIEF HISTORY OF PUBLIC LIBRARIES IN GHANA. 
The establishment of public libraries in the Gold Coast (now Ghana) was by the late 
Right Reverend John Orfeur Aglionby, the then Bishop of Anglican of the Accra diocese 
Inl !)2X for thc literate population at that time, The late Reverend opened a general 
wllection of 6000 volumes of books and this was made available to anyone who wanted 
10 make usc of it. In July 1938. the Executive Council (cabinet of the colonial 
government) raised the question of public libraries in Ghana. It discussed two points 
'l'ri(1llsly as to: 
(a) Whether provision should be made for a library building and 
(b) Provision be made for the annual upkeep i.e, maintenance of buildings, salal), 
of clerk. cost of periodicals and of replacement etc. 
11111I<llcl~. the Council decided. "Ifan unencumbered government building was available 
., ""lilt! hc justified in lending it for u library provided Government took no financial 
r"'I"':I"hilil\ of its maintenance or annual charges". (Evans. 1964). 
In Ikecl11bcr 1938. the late Reverend John Aglionby, sent an article to the African 
\llIl'I1ing Pl),t headed" .. \ I.ibrary for Accra". He stressed the need for a Library \\ith thc 
Illlll''''lllg Ill1l11hn of literate. and stated that he had opened an account at Barclays Bank 
1(11' till' '\end I Ihr:II'\ with the 'ium of £600.00, This was to be used for a huildlllg 
t()g~thcl' \\ itll another £400.00 that would be donated as soon as the building was started. 
1(, 
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Ill: eln isaged a main library. a clubroom and a sHent room for students. He asked the 
government to provide a site. and suggested that donations from interested individuals 
and firms should be sent to Barclays Bank. (Evans. 1964). 
The Government accepted its part of the challenge. In a letter to the late Bishop in 1935. 
the governor agreed that a memorial hall should be built in commemoration of King 
George V's silver jubilee. and in the letter, the Governor made SOme suggestions that the 
proposed public hall for Accra should be a composite building. which would include a 
publi~ library. The late Bishop agreed to this and in January 1938 his donation of 
£ 1.000.00 was handed over to the government "to be used in any way that His Excellency 
Sir Arnold Hodson may consider will best further the scheme for a library". (Evans. 
196-1) 
\ 1.1lIIt.llnlllg his keen interest in the library project. Sir Arnold Hodson appointed a 
lilllll11illce in April 1938 to confer with the late Bishop regarding the management. 
<2cllcral organization and equipment of the public library in the memorial hall. A report 
II as issued later in the year in which the following suggestions were made: 
(a) The I ibrary should be free for all but a deposit should be left for any books 
takt.:n away; 
(b) A committee of management should be appointed by His Excellency and given 
The sule and complete control of the library; 
Il I I here should be a consultative committee; 
, ci I I Ill' 1 ih rary should cltcr 1(11 o.,ludents and general readers; 
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(e) An A frican should be sent for library training - the cost being borne by the 
government: 
(t) The Carnegic Corporation be approach for a grant to provide books; 
(g) The Town Council should give an annual grant. 
In December 1938. another committee was appointed by the governor to submit 
r\:Cllllllllendations for the inauguration of a public library. The committee recommended a 
reICrcnce and lending library be established for residents in Accra only. Unfortunately. 
there was no qualified librarian either indigenous or expatriate in the country to start the 
I ihrar:- nut before any further progress could be made to put the various suggestions into 
""L'I"ations. a severe earthquake destroyed many buildings in Accra in June 1939. In vie", 
,\! I k 1:11:t that the old government secretariat was damaged, the government took over 
the King George V memorial hall. This situation was however, aggravated by the 
"llthr\:ak of the second world war in September 1939, and the plans and work on the 
I If'! .11\ I\a~ suspendcd indefinitely and its funds, namely the late Bishop's donation of 
t: I.IHIO.OO and a £ 227.70 grants from the 1937 King George's coronation Funds rrustees 
\\L'I, il1\L'~ted for future appropriation. (G.L.B., 1970). 
III lInt) the Carnegie Corporation of New York, made a grant off 6,250.00 to be spread 
,I 1'l'lwd Ill" three years to be used in developing a national circulating lihrary and the 
1'1;[, I:,I'L' Id a lihrar~ \an. Part of the sum was to he given 10 the education department to 
'tll'I::,:tl1"I: lihrary teacher tlaining collegc5 and secondar) :hools. But O\\>in[! to the' .. 11 
LUllditiulh. thL' (alllC[!iL' (prporation in September 1942, decided to stop funding the 
I\orkonthcliomr) (Cil H 1CJ70). 
I X 
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It was at thi~ juncture that the British Council opened its offices in the British West 
Africa and in May 1943 took over the plans of the Carnegie Corporation. (Contemporary 
Development In Librarianship, 1981). The British Council Library therefore appointed 
Miss Ethel Fegan to conduct a research into a possible development of libraries in West 
Africa. It was the result of this research that the British Council established a lending 
library in Accra in 1944. (Evans, 1964). This was to prove the tirst step in whal 
l:\entu<llIy became a nationwide public library service. Meanwhile, the Aglionby libraI') 
committee however continued to work hand in hand with the British COLincil library 
dJ\ I~ory committee whose terms of reference were to advise library organizers on library 
dc'\ c'lopments in the Gold Coast. Plans were also made by the advisory committee for the 
~\lcl1siol1 of library services to other parts of the country. Thus the foundation of a 
central. regional. branch and school libraries were laid. (Evans, 1964). 
In "'ovcmber 11)47. the government however, promised financial and moral assistance to 
enable a nationwide library system to be put into operation. The government standing 
lill,lllle committee in the 1949-1950 estimates to take effect on I st April 1949 included a 
'llill of k!rant for the library services. (G.L.B., 1970). In 1949, the Accra British Council, 
1\ hllh lIas then operating in prefabricated wooden shed behind the then European Club, 
Illlll m:cupicd by Ghana Art Council, gave over its library and its librarian to the central 
',"I l'mlllcnt. But he fore the British Council handed over its library book stock and the 
lihr~lJ"Iall to the Aglionby Lihrar~ management committee. it had gained considerable 
useful e:\periences in planning. researching and travelling throughout the c()untr) to wc 
hOI\ hcst to k!(l ahout rnollntill~ ~1 ~('(ld Ilhldl'~ s~stem the Gold Coast. «iIIL 1(.)70) 
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The year 1950 became a significant landmark in the annals of the public library service in 
the I:ountry. The Gold Coast Library Board Ordinance Cap. 118, which was passed in the 
Legislative Council in December 1949, came into operation on 151 January 1950. The 
Gold Coast Library Board was to establish, equip, manage and maintain libraries in the 
country and to take all steps as might be necessary to carry out its duty. The new Hoard 
\\ent into operation on 1'1 January 1950 and took over the book stock of;] little over 
27.UOO volumes from Aglionby library then housed in a wing of the King George V's 
Memorial Hall. popularly knov,n as the Old Parliament House. (G.L.B., 1970). 
2.1.1 ACCRA CENTRAL LIBH .RY 
I hI: Accra Central Library is one of the ten (10) regional libraries of Ghana Library 
il,,;!!d that oversees the provision of library services in Ghana. His Excellenl:Y. the 
(jovernor of the Gold Coast, Sir Charles Arden Clarke, officially opened the Accra 
t I:l1lral Librar) on 17th May 1956. Among the guest speakers on the opening day Were 
Ile' I'rtlllL' 1\1inistcr, the Hon. Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and Mr. Edward Sydney. president of 
the Library Association who came from England, United Kingdom. The Accra Central 
I I"!.I!~' building comprises of the Lending Library. Reference Library, Extensiol1 
"1:1'\ il:cs. Acquisition & Cataloguing Department and the administration offices of the 
(ih;lIla I.ihrary Board. 
I hc:\ccra Ccntral Library has become a social institution dealing with people and 
.,cc(lI1JI~ \lllh hooks. These in fact. fulfill one of the aims of the library to make book, 
fl!auil) 3vailahk tn readers. The servil:es offered by the Accra Central Library proved ..,,, 
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,uu:cssful that. during the first two years of its existence. it had quite large patrons from 
residents in Accra and Tema. The library assistants also kept constant touch with the 
government departments, schools. firms and other intere~ f bodies by sending out 
monthly list of recent additions to the stock of the library together with application forms 
of membership of the library. (G.L.B., 1970). With the passage of time, branch libraries 
were developed as modern buildings were built to house the libraries. Today. the Lending 
Department of the Accra Central Library makes books - fiction and non-fiction available 
to registered members to be sent home for a period of three weeks. Pamphlets. 
newspapers and periOdicals and other publications can be read within the library. 
Apart from the usual provision of general reference materials - encyclopedias, 
dictionaries. yearbooks. handbooks. manuals, almanacs. directories, government 
j1uolications. report of committees and commissions etc. the Reference Department also 
"no\\ n as Aglionby Room provides non-fiction books, pamphlets, newspapers and 
periodical. mars .Ind atlases to both registered and non-registered members of the library. 
I he Reference Department also provides a room for the purpose of study. This facility 
1101' been provided in the Aglionby Room in the Reference Department of the Accra 
( l'lllr;i\ I Ihrar~ \\ hcre there is a seating accommodation for 126 readers. The Reference 
[ h'I',"I Illl'Iil of the Accra Central library has space enough for the A fricana collections. a 
111.11' L:lbinet and a corner for periodicals. Information and other facts on all subjects are 
~.!lhcrcd. tlrganized and made available to readers. 
rhe Accra Central Lihrar~ was the mother library that brought into being the branch 
liorarics. \\ hich I;!ler gaincd stdtuse, of regional Ii brarics What the Accra Central I ihr;tr\ 
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did ",a~ ttl \\ilhdr~1\\ some of tile stock to form the part o. Ie basic stock of the libraries 
and staffs were transferred to man the newly opened libraries. A Commercial Library 
departmcnt was formed in 1967 out of the Reference Library as the result of the need of 
national consciousness toward industrialization, commerce, productivity and business. 
The new Commercial Library makes available up-to-date information on business. trade. 
industry and commerce. The patronage of the Commercial Library was very poor and 
sUbsequently. management decided close it down. 
Ihe Fxtension Services Departments of the Accra Library Central is responsible tor the 
Ilull" Box Services where books - fiction and non-fiction numbering 25 art: made 
available to the registered members of the department. This department is responsible for 
the mobile library van. which provide library services to the rural folks outside Accra 
c~pcclall~ \\-hen: there were no library services. This rural library services proved so 
'lIlle"lul that patronage increased year after year. (G.L.B. I 970). However, because of 
1'1. ,hklll, 'lll. . h a:, bad conditions of the roads and the inability of the Board to maintain 
thl' Ill"hlic \an. this rural library services were rendered inactive and was eventually 
.~I()ppeJ. In 1961, a wing was added to the Accra Central Library. This wing hOl1sc~ thc 
Childrl:n·, I.ibrar}. the Exhibition Hall, the Stack Room. Children's Processing, Bindery. 
~Ind the: School & Collegc Libraries. Today the atmosphere in the Children's Library is 
leLl\l:d: to)" of \arious kinds are delightful to the }oung readers. Adequate provisions 
;II·L· il1dlic Illr stor) telling. film shows and other activities. Appropriate ~eating 
.llLI lllllllllddt illll~ are provided for the young ones. The reference corner of the Chi Idrc/l', 
lihr"r\ plm ideo; opportunity for studies and homework. The Exhibition Hall wa~ u,cd II' 
puhllc i/e: (Ji1dll~1 Ilhl al) Board', services by the holding of exhibition~. I·or sometime 
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no\\< no exhibitions are held. Basic schools for their annual quiz competitions are now 
using the Exhibition Hall. The Hall is also used for stafT meetings. lectures. workshops 
and other programs. Some library clientele use the Exhibition Hall everyday for their 
private studies. 
2.1.2 FACILITIES AND STOCK 
The Accra Central Library can boost of good furniture - tables and chairs, built-in wall 
and standing shelves, counters, periodical rack, catalogue cabinets; steel shelves, trolleys. 
display boards and stock - books and periodical/newspapers. 
2.1.2.1 SEATING FACILITIES AT THE ACCRA CENTRAL LIBRARY 
\ :,urvcy conducted at the Accra Central Library showed that the Reference Library has a 
total of one hundred and thirty-seven (137) chairs including four (4) reserved ones and 
thirty-six (36) large tables for the library. The Lending Library has a total of thirty-four 
(]4) chairs including two (2) reserved ones and eight (8) tables for library. The 
('hddrcn's Library has eleven (11) chairs, thirteen (13) tables, fifteen (15) benches, ten 
( 10) stools and ten (10) mats. Last but not the least, the Extension Library have four (4) 
tahks and five chairs. This survey can be illustrated in the table below: 
23 
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Table 2.1 SEATING FACILITIES AT THE ACCRA CENTRAL LIBRARY 
Int:I.\RT\lE .... TS •,: ,~:-i "",,- R.:SICRVEO i IU:SI.:IIVEI> IS CM" 1n oo» MATS TABLES' ,CHAIRS' 
I .. :-.-- , j t-- -- -'-,-/---'--1-'-
,IU.H.IU.'IICt 
I i ll7 36 I 
LlIIII\R\ 34 
( IIIIIJIHY' 
111111\11\ " 13 15 10 10 
I !lilt \11\ 
~ I ht' II '"ned ._ble5 Mnd chain nrc rescl"Vc:d rOl' rr!lcMrchers only for Chelr research purposes, 
2.1.2.2 SHELVES 
.lllh l'~ <II Ihe Accra Central Library are of three categories, These arc the wooden 
huilt-in. wooden standing (island) and steel standing (isl: ld) shelves. The reference 
Ilhl.ll~ has sixteen (16) wooden built-in walled shelves. which are divided into 192 tiers. 
,lilt! a wooden standing shelves with 42 tiers. The Lending Library which hQJ.lscs the 
hLlI~ of the books have eight wooden built-in walled shelves which is divided into 120 
li.:r~. a wooden island shelve sub-divided into 252 tiers, a wooden standing shelve sub-
e11\ ided into 58 tier~ and a steel island shelve. The Extension Library has 86 wooden 
"land shelves divided into 602 tiers and two steel island shelves whilst the Children's 
I Ihr:lr:- h:1\ e ~8 \\ooden standing shelves. 
2.1.2.3 TROLLEYS 
\'lIl\l': U 1lldlilled.iI the Accra Central Library revealed that there arc two trolleys each 
111 th.: R.:krenc.:. i':llding. Children's and Extension I.ibraries. which facilitates cas) 
tiling or books. ben though these troll~ys arc weak as they were made in the early 70·s. 
th~~ arc ,till Iwing u~ed. 
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2.1.2.4 CATALOGUE CABINFTS 
rhere are four "ooden catalogue cabinets in the Accra Central Library - one in 1 
Reference Library. two in the Lending Library and the other one in the Extensi 
Library. Both the library clientele and staff of the Accra Central Library use the 
catalogues. These catalogues cabinet facilitate easy retrieval of materials in the libra 
I:ollections. These catalogues cabinet are both the subject and author catalogue. 
2.1.2.5 DISPLAY BOARDS 
For the reading public to be aware of what i~ happening in the library as far as new book 
and current trend of information are concerned, book jackets, posters and pictures a 
lli'rla~cd on the display boards in the Reference, Lending, Children's and Extensior 
Libraries for the benefit of the readers. 
2.1.3 STOCK 
I he aim of the public library is to make available throughout the country, general-readin 
Ill.lll'li"l~ ~o that the portion of the literate population which is not tied to forml 
~dllcation could have the opportunity to read to broaden their knowledge. The secon 
'1hll·ctivc is to make available to the literate public materials which will satisfy thei 
inf(mnation need so that, they can form sensible and rational conclusion on local 
Il,ltillnal and world 011 issues, In line with this, efforts are made to acquire as man: 
C'''c'llllal publications 011 all subjects, In acquiring library materials, certain classes II 
literature such as books on dogmatic theology. catechism and controversial rcligioll 
hll"~' ;lll' .1\ ()IJeu, Pro\i~ioll of material in la"" and medicine are also limited to genera 
C'klll(llIdl~ Illtr"ductillfl books suitable for the layman, Textbooks similar to those used if 
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schools hut not of the same title are provided in large numbers to supplement those used 
in schools and colleges. The public library therefore provides books of all kinds. because 
for a library to be effective. patronage by its clientele largely depends on its stock. 
2.1.3.1 BOOKS 
According to a survey conducted in the Accra Central Library, it came to light that. the 
library has 8,128 volumes of books in the Reference Library, 40,129 volumes of books in 
th~ Lending Librar)', 9,063 volumes in Children's Library, and 2.560 volumes books in 
Extension Library. In the nutshell, it could be stated that, the stock of the Accra Central 
I ihrary is 59.880 volumes of books <as at June 2001). The details of the book stock of 
\lll;1 Central Library could be found at Appendix 'A'. 
2.1.3.2 PERIODICALSINEWSPAPERS 
\ •• It .lul1~ 2001. Accra Central Library had the following newspapers and periodicals: 
PERIODICALS NEWSPAPERS 
Daily Graphic 
lil11L' Ghanaian Times 
\\ 1,.'''': \ i 111....1 Daily Guide 
The Ghanaian Chronicle 
11 )emocrat 
'\atl()llal LIlLJuirl'1 Business & Financial Time 
I hlln~ Graphic Sport 
:\ ti·ican Re\ iell Accra Mail 
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Ne~ Africa Guardian 
African Farming Observer 
Ideal Home Financial Times 
National Geographic Junior Graphic 
(',llllillonwealth Current Weekly Spectator 
Amanee Mirror 
( 'ourier 
Lthiopian Magazine 
,",'lro:an Focu~ 
2.1.4 STAFFING 
lor the public library to operate effectively there should be trained personnel who can 
;'l' I· >[ III tlKir duties effectively and with tact and diplomacy. I'hese trained personnel are 
. ;', ; 1."11 III Ihl' library. because it is through them that the public library clientele get 
,I(C":~~ to the stock of the library. The staff at the Accra Central Library is divided into 
1h i ,( \.Ia!>~es namel). the professional, sub or para-professional and the supporting staff. 
I he tahle below shows the category of staff at the Accra Central Library. 
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Table 2.2 Starr situation at the various departmen.ts at the Accra Central Library. 
I lu:n:Rt:~n: U:"I>I~(; CIfILDREN'S EXTENSIOI'o 
I 
j U8~_\R\ _ LlBRAR\ IL IBRARY LlBRAR\ 
TOT,\L 
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2.1.4.1 PROFESSIONAL LIBRARY STAFF 
Ihe prol~~.,ional library staffs are those with at least a po' tgraduate diploma in Library 
2.1.4.2 SUB-PROFESSIONAL LIBRARY STAFF 
I he sub-professional class assists the professional librarian to run the library effectively. 
I i'e',' IIlCIude Ilhrary officers. library assistant and the junior library assistants. rhl' 
lihrarl officers have at least a diploma in librarianship and the library assistant and junior 
'ri1 1.:1 \ .1"1'1.1111 11:1\ l' at leasl (jeneral Certitkate of Education Ordinary Level or Senior 
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2.1.4.3 SUPPORTING STAFF 
The supporting statTs are those who help the sub-professional class and the professional 
lihrarians to run the library. Their duties include messengerial, cleaning duties and 
securities duties. These supporting statTs have at least Gel :.11 Certificate of Education 
Ordinary Level or Senior Secondary School certificate, 
According to the mission statement of Ghana Library Board, the parent organization ot 
the Accra Central Library, the board will provide a comprehensive library services that 
\\ould assist in the inculcation of a life-long reading habits among the populace with the 
end result being the development of the individual's social and intellectual capabilities 
and the ereation of a well-informed society, elements which are most needful for national 
development. If the Accra Central Library is to play its proper role in the realization of 
the nation's Vision 2020. then there is the need to improve facilities and service delivery 
to its numerous clienteles, 
2.2 SYSTEMS AUTOMATION IN PUBLIC LIBRARIES 
\ 111"'11.111"11 01 librarie~ and information systems are widely exploited and are now 
'illlll',II·.ill\d~ a common place and no longer a controversial issue, These computer-
ba'l'd "1'l'I;lt l(lll\ permit public libraries to keep a record of their stock. the whereabout or 
,1.1111' ,,( the ~t()ek. providing access to the catalogue of items in the collection, managing 
I Ill' l"lIlll~ and the returning of item from the collection, acquisition, controlling and 
,ill,·\\ 111~ till' rdric\al of information. The nature of the application varies, as in the last 
lel\ ~ l"II',. thele ha\ c hecn mallY technological developments that have affected. or will 
.lIfecl 'lbr;lIIdlh lI,e "I computer, Many housekeeping systems have been de\\:loped for 
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and with the participation of the library using a wide variety of different systems. 
According to Martyn (1987). there are at least four possibilities in this case: in-house or 
go-it-alone system, turnkey system integrated system and the cooperative system. 
2.2.1 IN - HOUSE SYSTEMS 
These systems are developed by the libraries themselves to match their own facilities. 
This means the system would be designed, programmed. documented. installed and tested 
by the library designing it locally. The program (software) is also written locally to suit 
local needs. There are advantages in using this system: 
(a) since the system is developed by the library itself, the system is more 
likely to suit the requirement of an individual library. 
(b) the system is controlled by the library it is designed to serve. 
(c) no transaction fee involved. 
Among the disadvantages of the in - house system in the public libraries settings are, the 
system may not function well to the library's satisfaction after huge sums of money have 
been spent on it's designed and implementation. Again, it is quite difficult explaining 
lihrary need 10 the system designer (or analyst) outside the library. In designing the in-
house sysl~m in public libraries. there is the need for one to be able to speak the right 
lal1guag~ 10 Ihe system designer. Sometime such a person of the library staff leave at the 
critical moment of the development and the whole thing is stopped abruptly unless a 
library slaff is found to continue with the system analyst. Furthermore. the time involved 
111 a: 1101 b~ under the control of the librarian. It must be stressed that. the in - house 
':,\elll j, 'iLljl~ all exp~nsive project to undertake. (Lovecy, 1984). 
,II 
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2.2.2 TURNKEY SYSTEM 
A turnkey system that is applied widely in majority of the public libraries in the United 
I\.ingdom is one in which a single source provides the hardware and the peripherals like. 
the application software package and others, The librarians' glossary and reference book 
Jeline, the turnkey system as ., a computer systems that supplied complete for a specific 
purpo~c, No preparation is required on the part of the purchaser other than to turn the key 
to commerce," Theoretically. these systems are delivered completely operational ready to 
be plugged in and turn on, hence the term "turnkey", A rurnkey system is defined not by 
Ihl' function it performs but the single source for all the system components, It can be a 
circulation system. or an integrated system such as an acquisition subsystem. a circulation 
subsystem and an online catalogue subsystem using the same computer and the same 
Jatah~l\e, (l~pstein.1983), The available turn-key vendors include Computer Library 
'i~ stem Incorporated «(LSI). Computer Translation Incorporated (CTI), Data phase 
"~stem Incorporated (OSI). Data Research Associates (ORA), Gaylord Universal Library 
System, (it !LS), (Rowley, 1993), 
Illelel\ .1l1ta~es of using these packages in public libraries are that, they are economical 
""L,IIN' I Ii Ihe investment cost for the initial creation and later maintenance of the system 
;, 'l'll',ld "' er scveral users, (Adams 1985), Needs of individual public libraries are 
h",lkcl llid h\ IIriting custOI1l computer program for each library. but by writing a 
,'c'II,'I,1! l'I"C'I;llll IIhich antains its specific values such as length of loan period for a 
a result of \\cll- tested set 
"I pi "::'1',\111" ,ll1e! the \lIpplier 11;1'; a ,ufticient number of clients to justif) adequate and 
maintenance arrangcments, Other' ad\ antages arc that the turnkey systems are delivered 
11 
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,pl:l:dli~. these can be \\fitten in a fe\\! months or under a year. Most of the turnkey 
s)sterns are tailored to satisfy the library's requirements. Agai.n. the library staff 
operating and managing them are not requiring having a compl.lter background. There are 
also no recurring or service fees except for hardware and software maintenance, which 
\\(luld have to be paid for. Last. but not the least, the turnkey system is available at a 
shol1 notice and the system can. therefore be implemented earlier. 
Ilo\\ever. the major disadvantages of buying the turnkey system are the library's total 
reliance on an existing vendor to keep the library's system operating. If the vendor goes 
\lut of business. changes the emphases of its operation. is incompetent or otherwise is 
unable to perform necessary maintenance service (and software needs to be maintained as 
regLilarl~ as the hardware). the library will have to scramble to replace the vendor's 
111,lll1lel1<1l11.:e. usually resulting in increase expenses, an indefinite learning period for the 
Ill·'\ ill.llIlll:l1;lI1L'e source and increased anxiety on the part ·ofthe library administration. 
II{( 1\\ k~. I t)l)3). Again. the system is likely to be less efficient than a tailor-made in terms 
"I L\lI11I'lIll'r rUllning time and core storage utilization. 
2.2.3 INTEGRATED SYSTEM 
\ IIUlllbC:1 \)1 urganizations have produced. or are producing package luI' integrated 
I'llblll Ilbl;11"\ '\ ,teill. Integrated system deals with the whole library operation or the 
Lllgl' l)(llt j(11l "I' tile Ii hrar). According to Kimber (1996). the programs for public library 
IIltq:ratl'd ,~,tel11~ dre l110dules that create and <l(;cess single tiles for various operatio/l~. 
'u,h an Illtc~r~lted ,~,tCI11 is one in which the files are inter-linked so the deletloll. 
addition alld other change, ill (lne file. automatically activates appropriate lhal1ges in till' 
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rdated tiles. With the advent of computers in public library operations. the linked 01 
libral") 's housekeeping has become possible. Integrated systems frequently link order and 
acquisition systems or cataloguing systems with circulation systems or inter-linked all the 
thn:e stages. An integrated systems overcomes any qualms about compatibility. offer 
greater scope for staff saving and provision of better management information. (Rowle:. 
I II'!,) 
\cLIlIUlllg to Lovecy. (1984) ... there are other pressures suggesting the advantages of not 
integrating too fully. A very closely integrated system may, -Iuire the re-writing oflhe 
II hole system in order to upgrade part of it. It is like a hi-fi equipment. buy a music center 
with an amplifier, record deck. cassette deck and speakers all in one case. and the only 
\\;1) to improve it is to sell it and start again, buy a system in separate pieces and it can be 
continually upgraded piecemeal. The only difference between a closely system and a 
music center is that the former cannot actually be sold second hand. Moreover. some 
,:k'lll'lll canllot he fully integrated - the searching of remote databases always involves a 
,,1\,' .1\\ .1) /rol11 the main computer of a local system. (Kesner, 1984). 
I Ill' 111;lin dr,l\\back of the integrated system is that all of it's subsystems are not 
'!,lc"',lIlh .1' cCtl(ld .1' J ~}stem that is always available a separate function. 
2.3 Pl'BLlC LIBRARY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM 
\U",cilll:,: It. R()\\le;.. 1993. "computers are widely exploited in puhliL libraI') 
1l1;11l;1~L'IllL'llt ') ,tern" Such systems controls the activities that permit library's to keep a 
recoru of their ,tock. JIlU the II hereabout and the status of the stock." Ihe arplication or 
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LOmputers in public libraries can be grouped into those concerned with library 
management routines and those directed towards information retrieval. The automation of 
public library management routine may be discrete or "piecemeal" or integrated or 
planned installment which contribute toward final system. (Tedd. 1984). The library 
processes commonly automated are ordering and acquisition, cataloguing. circulation and 
document delivery and serial control. 
2.3.1 ORDERING & ACQUISITION SYSTEM 
Purchasing material for a public library's collection account for a large part of any 
library's budget and in the current economic climate the acquisition librarian must be 
involved in the collection development and sound management of funds. Ordering and 
al:quisition involve many important activities such as overseas orders, multiple orders, 
second hand books, replacing periodical and many more. In most public libraries in the 
l inited Kingdom many ordering and acquisition systems are now computerized. The 
ordering process is particularly suited to computerization, as it is a relatively simple 
clerical rroCl.'SS. where similar operations are applicable to all categories of library. Most 
ordering system in public libraries concentrate on monograph and other once - and - for 
all - purcllase. (RO\\ley. 1993). For the bulk of books ordered, which are received 
\\ ithout problems, it is unlikely that a computerized acquisition system in isolation will 
,Ihl\\ ,i~nifi..:ant saving in staff time. However, the primary benefit is likely to be, as it is 
"ll':ll in n:cord management, the number of bibliographic access points to records in the 
"ldl'lil1~ and acquisition department is increased by the computer usage. Records can be 
Jen:" b~ the order number. supplier. by the date of order and so on. Boss and Marcum. 
( 1981 ). rru\ ided an outline of an ideal public library acquisition system which include: 
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(<J) th.: ability for an authorized operator. to order ad... ,onal copies of a title for 
which the previous order had been placed, 
(b) The ability to search the file ofa bookseller's detail, in a predetermined order of 
preference, to determine which bookseller would be able to supply a given 
material immediately or to supply a given item at the lowest price, 
(c) Access to status notes on all title from all major booksellers to see whether a 
given title is out of print, not yet published or whatever, 
(d) An ordered item if available to be dispatched by the bookseller within 24 hours 
and the booksellers' status to be adjusted, 
(1:) The ability to provide very detailed financial infor.rtl8 tion in 8 variety of ways, 
I II rhe maintenance of a comprehensive file giving the library complete 
IllllJrlllation of all items on order or in process and to alert the library staff when 
IhL' nr.:eted item do not arrive. 
1::'1 I he: ,Ihll II) to deal with all financial transaction and adjust the files accordingly, 
I hi I lie: ;lhdity to accommodate a variety of materials including monographs, serials, 
'-'Ill emment documents. blanket orders. gift and exchange materials. audio~ 
\ i'llal materials, and many more, 
I iI L',_ I1 1L'lc'IIlIC, arc some of the areas in which the services offered from a computerized 
puhll L' Ii  hi JI) 'o: ,t':l11 ean be shown to be an improvement on a former manual system 
lathel tholll ;tuliall) saving staff time, In a computer-based ordering system, a machine-
,,',ld,lj'k l'li.: Ill" I"cLllld~ takes the place of the manual order file, and a series of quite 
':I",II~htllll\\;ll'd II'till~ pI'O\ ide library staff with the information and control 'they need, 
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2.3.2 CATALOGUING PROCESSES 
Most public libraries first used computers for automated production of catalogue cards. 
for printed catalogues on paper and later for microform catalogues. Gradually. the 
potential of computers as the instrument of a totally new type of catalogue was online 
catalogues. (Cotta-Schonberg. 1989). Since the early 1960's when the first computers 
\\ere used to assist library procedures. the catalogue of most public libraries in Ireland 
has probably been the prime the area for conversion t-o computer-based system. The 
reasons for this are various and include the need to provide access to complete and up-to-
date information from many service points to provide more and improve access points 
and seardl capabilities. to produce union catalogue. to reduce the cost of maintaining 
C~\f(J lalalogues. (Tedd. 1984) 
\11 Ideal computer-based cataloguing system in public libraries would include the 
1, ,i i, 11\ ill'.! l:l1aral:teristics; 
, ,I (1lllllle .Iccess \0 a database of potentially needed bibliography records. 
I h) A high percentage of the record to be already avai lable in the database so that 
lll'iginal cataloguing is minimized. 
r LI  \ LPlhiqcntl~ high quality of bibliographic record in the database and 
conformity .... ith the latest cataloguing and classification codes. 
I .11 \htlit~ to do original cataloguing online when neccssary and to assist the process 
\\ 1111 '1I'l'rorriatcs prompt. and so on. 
'L'I \hllll\ ','rlbc rccnrd in the catalogue to be accessed in a variety of ways and in 
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n recent ~cars several public libraries have introduced online public accesscataJogues 
OPACs). Such a catalogue allow any member of the library, access to search the 
,Italogue database in order to see if the library holds a particular work, to be in formed of 
t's location and. if the catalogue system is linked to the circulation system to be told 
,hether or not the item is on loan. Many advantages have been identitied from the 
pportunities that computers offered for shared databases and procedures. Rowley, 
Il}l)~) 'lil1lmarized these as: 
1;1) thl: catalogue record has become the central bibliographic record for the library 
management system. These records can be used not only in the catalogue 
subsystem. but also in the system such as circulation control acquisition control. 
I h I Interchange of catalogue records has led to greater standardization in catalogue 
rCl:ords. The tools, which are used to support the creation of catalogue records, 
havc all been adopted than the case prior to the advent of computers. 
ill I Ill: availability of union catalogue in a more complete form has been made for 
,11":,' l'rficicnt inter-library lending co-operative,. acquisition policies and co-
"!'l'ldllon storagc \ enturcs and their co-operative activities concerning library 
1,1) '" lilln~ and other routine I:atalogue maintenancl. .Ire required of catalogller~. 
l'\Cl'PI 1\ here it is necessary to alter the stock records as the stock itself changes, 
(l') 1)11 kll'lll l~lulll~UC format call he chosen for different catalogue location, 
all(1\\ III ~ hoth different record format and different physical forms of catalogue. 
It) L.\tl"act i"rom the catalogue database may be printed or consulted online. so that 
the stock of a special collection or a branch may be identified. 
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2.3.3 CIRCULATION CONTROL & DOCUMENT DELIVERY SYSTEM 
I le.\ner ( I< J27) defined circulation as "the activity of the library. which through personal 
contact and a system of records supplies the reader with the materials wanted", Over the 
years a variety of method for keeping records of items on loan from the library's 
.;ollection have been developed; these include ledgers, book cards. photo charging and so 
till ,\11 circulation and documentary delivery system impinges upon one of the primary 
11111(lIon~ of the public library. Public library materials including books and non-book 
... d, ,Iwuld be made available to all customers or clients immediately or as soon as 
'dllahk. Circulation systems are more concern with the controlling the stock within 
,'Ill' , library, Document delivery is generally associated with the delivery of documents 
'" 11'1.'1' in their homes or from a central point. According to Rowley (1993). in order to 
.Iehieve maximum availability of materials, all libraries must control circulation by at 
ka-t keeping records to specify the following: 
I a) What material is in the library stock or readily accessible through other channels. 
I h) \\h iell ll1atcri~ll is on loan, and from whom or where it can be retrieved. 
III \\ hen materials on loan will next be available in the library for other customers. 
( II(Llldtion control i~ one orth\! most widely automated public library operations and it is 
11ItCII tllC first acti\ity that librarians consider automating, According to Tedd (1985), the 
,b,r;lhk 1\:,ltures of a computer-base circulation control system might include being able 
fa) Determine C]lIi(~" and easily what titles are in the library'S collection and where 
the~ .IIC Illl:atcd. 
(h) Issue and return material rc\ridl~ accurately. 
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(c) Check whether or not a potential borrower is eligible for service. 
(d) Prepare overdue and recall notices. 
(e) Enable items to be reserved and to issue the necessary notices when a reserved 
item has been returned. 
(t) Indicate when a borrower is attempting to borrow more items than is permissible. 
(g) Inform individual borrowers of ilems on loan to them. 
(h) Detect 'problems' borrowers at the point of issue. 
(i) Calcu late any necessary fines due at the point of return. 
III Facilitates the collection of statistics about the system. 
I") Be rdiable and economical. 
Due to the efficiency of the computer, processes that demand immediate speed and action 
',[lel1 a~ recalling a reserve book or issuing overdue notices are handled quickly and 
,leelllJtely. An example of circulation control systems is the Automated Library Systems 
I Ihr;lr~ (ALS). -I he package offers two systems, one that operates online (system 5) and 
the other omine (system 6). Both use ALS book-reader that reads the labels in books and 
Ihl' hOIT(l\\er's ticket tll record issue and the return of books. 
2.3.4 SERIAL CONTROL 
\cl,)relin!,! to Rll\de) 1994. a serial is defined by the International Serial Data System 
,1"1)", 1',111\ ,1- .1 publication issue in successive parts and is intended to continued 
IIllie-I-lillte'''' "lTlal, include periodicals. newspapers, annuals, journals, memoirs. et 
eCkl.l\ \lTI;iI (,111 be in print or near print form and its part usually have numerical and 
cilrllll()logic;iI desigllatinn~_ Serials are distinguished from monograph by their on-gning 
Ilature \Il~ ,cllal, (tllltl(li ,\,tem usuall) have fewer titles to handle but must record 
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more detail for each title and can expect a greater number of transactions per title. For 
this reasons. among others. serial control system often distinct from monographs systems 
and address themselves uniquely to the problems poised by serials. An integrated serial 
control system nevertheless features all of the subsystems. already encountered for 
monographs. namely; 
(a) ordering and acquisition system - to control the selection, ordering, checking 
of serials, payment and chaser when indexes or issues fail to arrive; 
(b) cataloguing - or keeping record of the stock; 
(c) circulation control or keeping records of the available serials. 
1h e question of controlling serials by computer in public libraries produces mixed 
reactions from librarians and other information profes!:ionals. Some believe that it is one 
\lIthe most difficult public library management operations to perform by 
the L:omputer because of the unpredictable nature of the serials whilst others claim Lhat it 
II " \()I:llilit~. I\hich make serials a good cand'idatc for control by computer. (Tedd, 
1l)~4). According to Tedd (1984), the basic requirements of erial systems are similar to, 
nut more complex than. those for controlling a collection of monographs. These 
Il'quirel11l'nts include; 
(a) selecting suitable titles for purchase, 
(b) generating purchase orders. The majority of serial subscriptions are renewals 
,>I pl'e\ i(Ju~ order and so an automatic prompt indicating when a subscription is 
due is desirable. 
(() organizing financial matters and charging the appropriate accounts. 
(d) Iwei\ int! i"Ul" dnd claiming t(lr issues not received-( this is refers to as 
check-in) 
-III 
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(e) keeping current and details of serials holdings. 
(f) allowing access (either via an online search system or by CD-ROM) to details 
of current holdings. 
(g) allowing individual issues to be circulated to various members of the 
organization. 
(h) allowing individual issues or bound volumes to be borrowed from the 
collection 
(i) organizing for complete volumes of serials to be bound. 
(j) producing management information. 
A computer - based serial control in public libraries system cover all these functions. The 
majority of computer - based serial systems in public libraries are designed to produce 
list of various orders. such as title, subject. location or supplier, and in a variety of 
difli:rcnt form !-ouch as computer typesetting. In some cases, online searching of serial 
database is possible, 
2..1 THE IMPACT OF COMPUTERS IN PUBLIC LIBRARIES 
I he il1trouuction of computer technology into public libraries has to a large extent almost 
Ic'\ "Iutiollalised public library processes in the developed world, a process being rapidly 
'cI\lhlll~ lip \\ith the developing world. To a large extent, it has influenced information 
h~lllc1lll1~ ill puhlic libraries and other information units to a degree undreamed of. 
\ccurcllllg til (\1,1011 (1985). we have a rare opportunity not only to benefit from the 
evolving technolog) to enhance our method of dealing with information now available in 
dimension of unprecedented magnitude, The computer rna), if we have to use it wisely, 
~ I 
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not only make the flood of information more manageable in public libraries. but might 
even discover a delight in learning. In areas where, manually-operate processes are slow, 
inflexible and often repetitive. or where selectivity constitutes an important function. 
~pced and flexibility of the computer and its ability to select pieces of information 
reqUired. makes the computer an extremely use aid. Mason (1983). identify three stages 
Ihr(lligh which technologies seem to affect public library operations; 
(a) Technologies improve efficiency by substituting a machine method for a 
previously manual operation. 
(b) The capacity is extended to other functions that were previously done 
manually. 
(c) The technology permit the invention of new functions 
We fmd that we can do things that we do not do them before the microcomputer because 
it was not jllst f'easibk to them manually. The problems that public libraries now face has 
hc~n enC()lIlll~red for generations and have been solved in more or less conventional 
II ~I~' hI \'('IllI'lIl~r, The computers have emerged as a possible tool to help solved these 
1'1 "I'klll' \ Itlj()lI~h. the solutions to these problems still exit, public libraries are 
l!ll!easingl~ looking to computer as the key to solving the old problems. It is no secret 
lil;11 Ihe lihrar~ automation cost is high and operating cost higher than the manual cost. 
\',,1 11'lh'landing this. computerization is as inevitable in public libraries as 
II;c'\,il.IIII/;ili,H, (,!' payroll. billing inventor). and other standard processes in the various 
IJrg\,' lllll1l1lerLi,d Jnd industrial organizations in which these are implements as a matter 
of Cllurs~, 
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In (;,lnelu'lOll. il would be appropriate to quote De Gennaro (1984), who points thaI, the 
"practical reality is that, users would continue to need public libraries and the public 
libraries must meellhose needs with the resources and technologies available." 
REFERENCES 
ADAMS, ROY. "Development of the Automation of Inter-Lending b) Micro-
I:llll1pull:rS systems at Leicester Polytechnic" in Programs vol. 19 no. January. 
IlJX5. pp. 45-48. 
\ 1 "iTON, R. C. "The Grammar of Research: Some implications of Machine-
Readable Bibliography" in British Library Journal. Vol. 18, No.5 (1985) pp. 115-6. 
BOSS. R. W. and MARCUM. D. B. "Online Acquisition Systems for Libraries," 
Library Technology Report. VoLI7 no.2. (1981). 
COTTA-SCHONBERG, M. V. "Automation and Academic Library Structure" in 
Libri Vol. 39 no. I. ( 1989). 
(Ililleillporary Development in Librarianship. An International Handbook. I~d. II) 
\ 1i le, M. Jackson. Library Association: London, 1981. p. I I 
DF (IENNARO. Richard. "Shifting Gears: Information Technology and Academic 
1 ihrary" in Library Journal. Vol. 109, No. I \. (June 15. 1984) p. 1204 
IPSTEIN. S. "Buy, build. adapt - or forget it'" in Library Journal. VoI.I08, No.9 
t \ 1:\\ .19X3) pp. 888-9. 
1 \ \ \, ". I I. Tropical Library Service. London; Andre Dentsh Limited. (1964). 
I 1 1 \ \, 1 I{ I \1. ~irculation Work in Public Libraries. Chicago. American Library 
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GIIANA LIBRARY BOARD: Silver Jubilee BrOchure. Accra; Select Promotions 
and Puhlications. (1975). 
Harrod's Librarians' Glossary and Reference Book. 6lh ed. England; Grower 
Publication Company. (1987). p.57. 
KIMBER. R.T. Automation In Libraries. 2nd Ed. Oxford: Pergamon Press, 1996. pp. 
175-6. 
KESNER. R. Microcomputers In Libraries. Westport: Greenwood Press, (1984). 
IOVECY, I. Automating Library Procedures: if sUl'vivor's handbook; London. 
Library Association. (1984). 
MARTYN . .I. Libraries and Information in Britain: The British Council, London, 
Il)S7. 
ROWLEY. J. E. (1993). Computers for Libraries. 2nd ed. London, Clive Bingley. 
TEDD. L. A. (1984). An Introduction to Computer-Based Systems. 2nd Ed. New 
lnrk: John Wiley and Sons. 
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CHAPTER THREE 
3.0 ANALYSIS OF DATA AND PRESENT AT ION OF RESULTS 
Questionnaires and interviews were used to collect data for this study. Data were 
collected from both the staff and users of the Accra Central Library. These were the 
library staff including the Acting Director of Public Library Services and the library 
clientele. These questionnaires and the interview guide can be found in appendices B, C, 
and D. 
The first sets of questionnaires were administered to the clientele of the Accra Central 
Library. The questions were designed purposely to obtain views from library clientele on 
their perception of effect of computer applications on library operations. 
The second set of questions were administered to tht: staff of the Accra Central Library 
(<.:\,Iuoing the director of Public Library Services) to find out their perception of the 
efTects of computer systems on library operations, and whether it is time to automate the 
Accra Central Library as well as identified the factors that to them hinder automation. 
1h e third \\as an interview administered to the Acting Director of Public Library 
Services. Ghana Library Board, the parent organization of the Accra Central Library to 
fino (lut factors that can promote the automation of the Accra Central Library and the 
problems that can hinder it's promotion. 
45 
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In all. two hundred and fifty-five (255) questionnaires were distributed- two hundred and 
forty (240) tor library clientele. fifteen (15) for library staff and the Acting Director of 
I'uhlic Library Services was interviewed. All these questionnaires were returned on time. 
3.1 Perception of library clienteles on issues relating to automation 
111 (lrJer to elicit the views of the library clientele on whether computers can facilitate 
library operations and improved services at the Accra Central Library, they were asked a 
number of questions. Below are their responses. 
3.1.1 Professional rank of users of the Accra Central Library 
\ i 1.1" / i ng of the data gathered from the cl ientele of the Accra Central Library showed 
It the Illajority (84.4%) representing 203 respondents of the patrons are students, and 
I I ~'pn:~cl1ting 26 of the respondents are reseal" lers and II respondents 
representing (4.6%) are lecturers. The results are shown in table 3.1. below. 
Table 3.1. Professional rank of clientele of the Accra Central Library 
Professional Rank No. of respondents Percentage (%) 
I 
SluJents 203 84.4 
! 
------~ --- ------.~ 
IZc: ".;~II'( Iwl" r 26 11.0 i 
~~----
Lecturers II I 4.6 
I 
Total 240 100.0 
____ L 
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3.1.2 Frequency ofvisit to the Accra Central Library. 
When the clientele were asked apout how often they visit the Accra Central Library. the 
IvIIO\\ ing were the results as presented in Table 3.2. 
Table 3.2 Frequency of visit 
F rcq-ue-n-c-y -o-r-V-is-i-t- ---- -N-o.-o-r-r-e-s-po-n-d"'-e-n-ts---'-:- Percentage (%) 
o nce a week : 44 IS.4 
, --
Tw ice a week 26 10.S 
..... -
I hre c times a week 21 S.8 
I 
Morc than three times a \\cek 149 62.0 
- -- ------- - I .-
Total 240 100.0 
I 
- --- ---
3.1.3 Years or using the Accra Central Library 
I hl' l'llquir~ (If how long patrons have been using the Accra Central Library was made to 
lind out the numher llf years the patrons have been using the library. It was found out that 
Ih t: ~reater the number of years of using the library, the higher the chances of being aware 
"I th l' 'l'l\ICe~. rhe results indicated that lIS respondents (49.1%) of the total had been 
lI'II1': tilt: \ccru Central Library between 1-5 years. Those who had been using the library 
1\ 11 fl· III ~ ,\11, \\ cre 64 respondents (26.7%). Thirty-seven respondents (15.4%) had been 
lI'lllt: tilt: II"r~lr\ for 11-15 years. while 21 respondents (8.8%) indicated that they had 
h,','1l 1I,ill~ the \U.:t'.1 Central Library for over 15 years. The Table 3.3 below illustrate 
II. 47 
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Table 3.3 Years of using the Accra Central Library 
-------ye~rs of Library Use ! No. of respondents Percentage (%) 
1-5 118 49.1 
------- - ! 
6-10 64 26.7 
-- -~-----------~. 
11-15 37 15.4 
~+ 
Over 15 21 8.8 
Total 140 100.0 
3.1.4 Services used at the library. 
\\ he'll the patrons were asked about the services they use at the Accra Central Library. 
'I', illlll\h\:J and twenty-three respondents (51.2%) said they come to the library to make 
1,'kll'IllT, Ninety respondents (37.5%) come to the library to borrow books. while 27 
respondents ( I 1.1 %) indicated their main aim of coming to the Accra Central Library was 
;,' IL'ad the daily papers. Respondents were also asked whether the use of the library 
':"~IIL' t" 'l'al'l.:h for information was time consuming. One hundred and eighty-seven 
:L"i','Ildl't1h (77.8%) answered in the affirmative. 53 respondents (22.2%) indicated that 
I IlL' ,'\ 1.1111" method ()f using the catalogue to locate informat;on is not time consuming. 
\0.:,1111 IIhl'll 1l"puIHjents \\ere asked whether the catalogue method of searching for 
IIllllll11;llillll I' Ipo complex. majority one hundred and eighty seven respondents (77.8%) 
Indicated that the rre~ent method of using the catalogue to search for information is too 
lUlllplc\. II h i 1'1 :"~ i'l,,,pot1dents (22.2°;',) have no difficult using the catalogue tll locate 
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information. When the patrons of the Accra Central Library were asked to indicate 
whether they would prefer access to the library's collections through computer systems, 
all the respondents 187 (100%) who indicated that the catalogue at the Accra central 
Library is time consuming and complex to use said they would prefer access to the 
library collection through a computer system. 
3,1.:; The use of computer catalogue 
When the respondents were asked why they prefer computers to be used to access the 
"ccra Central Library'S collection, 134 respondents (71.7%) indicated computer systems 
\\ IItild facilitate access to information whilst 53 respondents (28.3%) indicated that. 
,I IInfluter access is faster and would provide more accurate information. The results are 
l'r"'~"'l1ted in Table 3.4 belo\\<. 
Ta blc 3.4 Responses on the use of computer catalogue 
Wh~' Computer? No. of respondents 
I.I'~ access to intormation 134 71.7 
------------:----+.------:-::-----1------------1 
I .I,l and accurate inllll'lllation 53 28.3 
Total 187 100.0 
3.1.6 Assessment of available facilities 
I il, 1.lhie' ;'i h<.:lO\\ indicates the clientele of the Accra Central Library's perception of 
:I.e .,k'I:I.le\ 1)1' ~(lllle resources at the Accra Central Library expressed by rating the 
'':1\ I\.C' 1.111:::111::: 1""11 excellent. good. satisfactorily to poor. The number and percentages 
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of responses tor each resource is entered under each rank and summary of the total 
resrllnses lor each for recorded at the bottom. 
Table 3.5 Assessment of available resources 
-~. 
Resources Excellent Good Satisfactory Poor Total I 
J 
Ret 'ere nee materials - 32(13.3%) 64(26.7%) 144(60.0%) 240 ( 100.0%) I 
Periodicals 117(48.9%) 85(35.5%) 38(15.6%) - 240( 100.0%) 
~.-
Co pying Facilities - - 240(100%) 240 (100.0%) i 
-----
Fictions - 59(24.4%) 117(48.9%) 64(26.7%) - 240(10000/0)1 
Total 117 176 219 448 
Ihe Table 3.5 above indicates that majority, 144 respondents (60%) ranked the reference 
c'l\ IcC at the Accra Central Library as poor. 64(26.7%) as satisfactory, and 32( 13,3%) as 
""'li. (11lL' hUlldn:d and seventeen respondents (48.9%) ranked periodicals at the Accra 
lcntral I Ihrar~ as excellent, 85(35,5%) as good, 38( 15.6%) as satisfactory. All the 
""!,(lillie-III> ~ .. WI 100",,) ranked photocopying facilities as pc")r. When respondents were 
i,',1 t(l rallk fictions al the Accra Central Library •. 59 respondents (24.4%) indicated 
c",\,1 117(-18.9%) as ,atislactory and 64(26.7%) as poor. 
3.1.7 Current services of information provision 
\\ hl'll thl' library clienteles were asked whether they like the current services of 
Il1r(lIIll;lIi"1l Plll\ j,j(lll h~ the lihrary ,taff, majority 154(64.2%) indicated they did not like 
thc (LIiTCIlI "CI'\ ICC rrovided whilst 86 respondents (35.8%) saw nothing wrong with thl: 
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current services. Again. "hen respondents who indicated they saw nothing wrong with 
the current library services were asked to indicate which aspects of the services rendered 
hy the library staff of the Accra Central Library appeals most to them. 43 respondents 
(33.3°;0) indicated the research services by the library staff to clientele appeals to them. 
~ I Ic'polldcnts (26.7%) said the information searching for clientele by the library staff 
.lpl'c;lI, to them whilst 22 respondents (20.0%) reported that staff attitude to assist 
clienteles in their information searching appeals to them. All the respondents agreed that 
,\ 'llIl'lIICI ,y~lcms would change library operations. 
3.1.8 The effect of computer systems in library operations 
\\ hCIl the 160 respondents who indicated the usefulness of computer systems in library 
"l'c'lJI l(lll~ \Vere asked to indicate their perceptions of the effects of computer systems in 
Ilorary operations. 64 respondents (40.0%) indicated that computers were very efficient 
III '>crvice delivery. 58(36.2%) indicated that with computers in library operations, 
1111",)1111<1tioll access would be easier and faster. whilst 38 (23.8%) responded that 
c(llllPLltCI"' \\ould reduce the cost of information delivery. Table 3.6 below illustrates the 
I ahle J.(l The cffect of computer systems in library operations 
Change of Operations No. of respondents Percentages (%) ] 
I Iflc iellt services 64 . --- 40.0 --- - I 
I 
58 T 36.2 I 
Rl'dllu:d (11',1 ()f information 38 23.8 
'lOt.I I 160 100.0 
~I 
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3.2 Responses from the staff of the Accra Lt: .. lrlll Library 
In an en;xt to find out the problems and prospects of automating the Accra Central 
Library, it became necessary to find out from the staff at the Accra Central Library 
factors they perceived hindered the automation of the Accra Central Library and the 
prospects of automation they envisaged for of the Accra Central Library. 
3.2.1 Department of respondents 
\\ h~n respondents were asked to indicate the depaltment in which they worked. 5 
respondents (33.3%) said they worked at the reference department, 4 (26.7%) worked at 
Ihl: kl1Jlllg. 3 respondents (20.0%) worked at the children's library and another 3 
rl!srondents (20.0%) worked at the Extension library. 
3.2.2 Number of years at the Accra Central Library. 
Iii" lllll!,tilln \\a~ posed to find out the number of years respondents has worked at the 
\.:na Central Library. the results indicated that 2 respondents representing 13.3% 
Illciic"ted that they have worked for over I 0 years. Three respondents representing 20.0% 
1I1cill.ltl:d they have worked between 7-10 years. again, 3 representing 20.0% said they 
h;\l1! lIorked lor bel\\;een 4-6 years, whilst 7 representing 46% indicated they have 
II, 'rked betwcl'l1 1-3 years. None of the respondents had worked for less than a year. This 
I, ,11\11111 helol\' in Table 3.7. 
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Table 3.7 Number of years at the Accra Central Library. 
Number of years No. of respondents Percentages (%) 
I 
Less than year 
------ 1 
1-3 7 -r 46.7 
.---------- - , .--
4-6 3 20.0 
_ .. J 
-+---- -
7-10 3 20.0 
I 
I Over 10 years 2 13.3 
'--j(;tal 15 100.0 
I I 
3.2.3 Professional rank library staff. 
When respondents were asked to state their ranks in the library, 7 respondents (46.7) 
indicated they were junior library assistant, 3 respondents representing (20.0%) indicated 
, "1l'\ wcre library assistants, 3 respondents representing (20.0%) indicated they were 
l,h1.11: ,>II"'lcrs. whiles another 2 (13.3%) indicated they were principal/chief library 
(lftieer. One respondent representing (6.7%) stated that she was a librarian. The result is 
,hown in the table 17 below. 
Table 3.8 Professional rank of library staff. 
------ --. - -...I, .--,:---::--:--:------r--------------Rank No. Of Respondents Percentllge ('Yn) 
', .. 1\), Ilhr,lI,) a~sistant I 7 46.7 
! 
____ . ____ 1-
I I h, ;\!"\ a,sistant 20.0 
I 
I 2 13.3 
I 
1'1111(11',11 lihrary officer 2 13.3 
6.1 
lo(al 15 100.0 
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rhe respondents were asked to state which sort of people visited the library. 9 
re-;pondents representing (60.0%) indicated that students top the category of people who 
"isited the library. 5 respondents representing (33.3%) indicated researchers were their 
most clicilleles whilst I (6.7%) indicated lecturers and tourist. 
3.2.4 Searches in the Catalogue 
When the library staff were asked to indicate who conduct searches in the catalogue, the 
results of this question shows that 9 respondents (60.0%) indicated that lIsers conduct 
\carches with the help of library staff, 5 respondents representing (33.3%) indicated that 
,can:i1es in catalogues were conducted by the library staff, whilst I respondent 
representing (6.7%) said searches were done by users. The results are shown in Table 3.9. 
Table 3.9 Searches in the Library catalogue. 
No. of respondents Percentage (%) 
6.7 
33.3 
--+1----- .11---- -9 60
I 
lotal ----1-5----:----1-00.u 
I 
--------
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3.2.5 Problems encountered when locating books on the shelf. 
When the library statT was asked to state whether they found it difficult locating books 
atter consulting the cataJogue on behalf of clientele? All the respondents 15 representing 
(100%) indicated in the atlirmative. 
3.2.6 Problems Encountered When Locating Materials in the Library 
When respondents were asked to state the type of problems they encounter. when 
It'(~l!lllg books on the shelves. over half of the respondents representing (53.3%) 
indicated that the problems they encounter were wrong shelving. 4 respondents 
Il'PI\:'~llting (26.7%) also indicated deliberate hiding. Three respondents (20.0%) 
indicated Ihal mosl of the books couldo't be located on the shelf although their cards are 
in th~ cataloguing cabinets. Table 3.10 below illustrates the above results. 
Table 3.10 Problems encountered when locating materials in the libral')' 
Percentage (%) 
---~~--~~------~------~~~-------4 
\\ It)ll!,! ,heh ing 8 53.3 
4 
Slealing 
Totlll 15 
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3.2.7 Satisfaction of Services by Clientele. 
A.n t:l1quiry about library stairs perception of clientele satisfaction with services oflered 
by them. 9 respondents representing 60.0% indicated that clients were not satisfied with 
the services offered by the working staff, while 6 respondents representing 40.0% 
indicatt:d that clients were satisfied with the services provided by the working staff. 
3.2.8 Types of clientele's satisfaction 
The six respondents. who indicated that clients were satisfied with the kind of service 
provision. indicated that clients were satisfied because they got the information they 
wanted. and the library staff also directed them to other libraries where their needs could 
3.2.9 Clientele's not satisfied. 
The nine respondents who indicated that clients were not satisfied with the kind services 
they received \\-ere asked to indicate why client were not satisfied. Six of the respondents 
Ie prt:~t:llting (66.6%) indicated that clients did not receive up-lo-date materials for their 
Ic',,;c;lrch, \\hilc 4 respondents representing (44.4%) indicated that most of the stock were 
'''111 ,11~11 Iwt presentable. This means the central government must provide adequate funds 
I" I'Lirlha~c current books and make available funds to mend worn-out books. 
3.2.10 Computer Literacy 
\11 cnquiry on whether the staff at the Accra Central Library knew how to use the 
l"llll1l'lItt:r showed that. nine of the respondents (60.0%) could not use the computer, 
\\ 1111,1 II IL "I'"IHJents representing (40.0°;',) stated that they could use the computer. 
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3.2.11 The Purpose of Computer Use 
When the five respondents who indicated they could use the computer were asked to state 
v.hat they could use the computer for. 3 respondents (60%) indicated they could use the 
computer for word processing, CD-ROM searching, and Internet whilst the remaining 2 
respondents representing (40%) indicated they could use it for Word processing only, 
3.2.12 Automation of the Accra Central Library 
All respondents (100%) agreed that it is time to automate the Accra Central Library, the 
reason for their answer were that, respondents have discovered the effectiveness of 
.:nl11puter~ in Ii brary housekeeping such as the one at the British Council Library hence 
their overwhelming support of Accra Central Librarys' automation, Besides, they agreed 
wmputers \\ ()uld save much of their energy and time during searches for clientele, 
3.2.13 Library Routine's Automation. 
When respondents were asked to list which of the library operations they thought need 
urgellt ~llltomation, 12 respondents (25.5%) listed ordering/acquisition, circulation. 
rdc'r,'llce, classification and cataloguing. Whilst 10 respondents representing (21.2%) 
Ihll'd cll'clilation. 8 (17,0%) reference, 9 (19.1%) classification and cataloguing, Eight 
, ·'1" '1ldc'lll> representing (17,0%) listed other housekeeping operations as such as OPACo 
<1:'1'11," lil:Jl tiles!! respondents actually know that computers with appropriate 
",:111,1',' llHilL! assist them in some if not the entire library work at the Accra Central 
;,1",,, 1 k l'e~lIlts are shO\\n in table 3,11. 
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Table 3.11 Automation of library routine. 
---
Housekeeping AutomatlQll No. Of respondents Percentage (%) ! 
Ordering / acquisition 12 25.5 
Circulation 10 21.2 
----~ - -
Reference 8 17.0 
---j 
(l<Jssilication <Jnd cataloguing I 9 19.1 
I 
I 
Others (OPAC) I 8 17.0 
----- --------
3.2.14 Why automating library routine. 
()n the question of why respondent's choice of library housekeeping service that needed 
til ~<.:nt :lUtomation, 7 respondents representing (26.0%) stated that automation would 
enhance work :-It the library. 8 respondents (29.6%) stated automation would lead to easy 
,IL~CSS to information. whilst 12 respondents (44.4%) indicated automation would bring 
ahout quick del ivery of information. The table 3.12 below illustrates the above results. 
Table 3.12 Why automating library routine. 
Automation No. Of respondents Percentage (%) 
I 11'1, 1<':11C~ and patron satisfaction 7 26.0 
I .1,\ XCl'" to information 8 29.6 
12 44.4 
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3.2.15 Job threatening 
rhe nine respondents who indicated that they were not computer literate believed that 
their jllh would certainly be on the line if the Accra Central Library were automated. This 
\~as because their services would no longer be needed. because what they did manually 
wOllld be automated. 
3.2.16 Resources that support automation. 
When the respondents were asked to state the resources of the Accra Central Library that 
support library automation, 9 respondents representing (32.1 %) indicated that the Ii brar) 
11", llll: manpower although most of them not trained in computer applications. 5 
respondents representing (17.9%) indicated the library has reliable catalogue, 8 
respondents representing (28.6%) stated that the library has a well~arranged stock for 
ea~~ location. Last but not the least. 6 respondents representil1g (21.4%) indicated that the 
l'll·,cnl infrastructure support automation. Table 3.13 below illustrates the above result. 
Table 3.13 Resour'ccs that support ~lIltomation 
l{cs()lIrce~~ - --~------~-- --
I No. of respondents Pl·t'Centa
-ge- ---, (%) 
i 
T 9 32.1 
- --"~ --
Rl·llahlc catalogue 5 17.9 
. -
\\ c II-arranged stock 8 28.6 
-- ~. 
Building 6 21.4 
I 
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3.2.17 Factors that hinder automation. 
On the question of what respondents think hinders automating the Accra Central Library. 
14 respondents representing (41.2%) indicated unavailability of funds. Others 8 (23.5%) 
indicated as an additional reason that, majority of the staff are not computer literate. Still 
others 7 (20.6%) indicated lack of preparation among some of the staff to change to 
computer usage. Five respondents representing (14.7%) stated appropriate structural 
design be made on the present building to accommodate air-conditioners and other 
equipment. Table 3.14 below illustrates the above results. 
Table 3.14 Factors That Hinder Automation. 
Factors No. Of respondents Percentage (%) 
Lack of funds 14 41.2 
Computer illiteracy 8 23.5 
I <lek of preparedness to change 7 20.6 
Structure re-design 14.7 
3.3 Responses from the Director of Public Library Service 
III an allempt to elicit the views of management in the problems and prospects of 
automating the Accra Central Library, the Director of Public Library Services. Ghana 
'hrdr~ HI lard. the parent organization of the Accra Central Library was asked to indicate 
,lllll"I~ ,<llll'r Ihing~ \\hether the Accra Central Library has computers and il"not, whether 
l11all~I::'CI11Cnt have plans to acquire computers in future, The director was also asked 
\\ 11(lill'l Ih l' hoard had plans \() automate the Accra Central Library and their perception 
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of the etlccts of the automation on the library operations at the Accra Central Library. 
Below were the results of the responses presented under the following headings. 
3.3.1 Computers at the Accra Central Library. 
Analysis of the data gathered from the director indicated that there are no computers at 
the Accra Central Library. But the Board has plans to purchase computers in future. If 
these computers are acquired in future. they would be used for administrative purposes. 
placed at service points for information retrieval. cataloguing and classification, internet 
access. for accounting purposes and in the stack room. 
3.3.2 Automation of Accra Central Library 
On the question of whether the Board has plans to automate the Accra Central Library, 
the dire({or answered in the affirmative. According to the director, the board agreed that 
H1 future if the necessary funds are made available from the central government or UIl} 
organization. automation would be used for ordering and acquiring books. dbseminatioll 
lIt intilflllatioll. Internet services. networking among others. 
3.3.3 Personnel of Accra Central Library. 
\\ '1"11 Lill' Jlrec.:tor was asked whether the present personnel were competent enough to 
,lIrpnrt the Library's automation. She agreed that most of the staff were not computer 
Ilkrale Ollt management has a policy of training library staff both professional and para-
;'I,d""I(lIlal. t\[cording to her. if the Board acquires computers in future. such personnel 
,PIII,I hc' trained. Currently management does not employ personnel with information 
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3.3.4 Automation of library operations. 
\nalysis of the results to the question on which of the library operations management 
intends to automate, the director agreed with the following. cataloguing. classification, 
circulation. reterences. services, ordering and acquisition. In effect. all the library 
operations. 
3.3.5 Effects of automation at the Accra Central Library. 
On the question of the possible eftect of automation on library operations at the Accra 
Central Library, the director envisaged effective and efficient delivery of services to 
I ihrary clientele. The director also envisaged financial problems with computer 
appl il~ltjons in the form of large capital outlay either for the purchase of the computers or 
the .ILlllll'ltipn of software and other equipments. She also envisaged technical problems 
II illl th.: computer application at the Accra Central Library with the frequent power 
(Illtag.:, without stand-by generator. maintenance of equipments, vendor supports, 
problcms of lack of air-conditioners. 
3.3.6 Management position on computer application at the Accra Central Library. 
\ l"nag':l1lcnt tavors the use of computers in public libraries. The Board does not receive 
cnough funds tor the public library operations from the central government. The cenu'al 
~\ II lTllIlll'nl fn:quciltly cuts in budget or financial estimates submitted to it by 
1I1"ll~I:;L'll1cnt This in effect is hindering the Accra Central Library's automation in 
1'.111" '.i1.11 ,lilJ public libraric~ ill general. 
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CHAPTER FOUR 
DISCUSSIONS, SUMMARY OF RESULTS, CONCLUSION AND 
RECOMMENDATIONS 
4.1 DISCUSSION OF PROBLEMS RELATED TO AUTOMATING THE ACCRA 
CENTRAL LIBRAR\, 
t\u!Omuting public libraries can be saddled with many problems, especially at the design. 
implementation and evaluation stages. (Tedd, 1984). It is then' ''ore of extreme importance 
that lihraries must be aware of their limitations while considering an automated system, 
1 he operations of public library automated system are usually more complex and require 
more precision in their execution than in the manual system. The study revealed that. the 
prohlems of automating public libraries at the Accra Central Library ranges from 
linul1l:lal to personnel problems, These problems are inter-related and inter-dependent 
~l1ld one cannot talk therefore about one and leave out the others, The problems discussed 
111 this chapter are based on the findings of the study and the researcher lays no claims to 
11.1\ 111C! l(llIIH.I all the problems of automating the Accra Central Library. The problems 
Illcludc (Illancia!. personnel. attitudinal and stable power supply. 
4.1.1 FINANCIAL PROBLEMS 
II j, ~cl1erally very diflicult to find funds to support projects. It is quite obvious that not 
"Il(\u~h money is given to public institutions to be run effectively and Ghana Library 
Aoard the rarent organization of the Accra Central Library is no exception. Lack of funds 
kl' flul ulll~ pi C\ eJ1lc'd the lihrar~ i'rom procuring the needed materials but also aflcctcd 
Ihe ,1lI11l1l1;lti(l1l lllllhrar~ prOl:e~~e~ It is very sad to say that the Accra Central I.ihran 
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does 1101 have a single computer not even for administrative purposes. The library also 
la\.:ks the necessary funds to train statT to work satisfactorily. The annual in-service 
training organized for junior library assistant has been cancelled as a result of drastic 
budget cut from the central government. 
4.1.2 PERSONNEL PROBLEMS 
Ihe Accra Central Library is presently understaffed as a reSl of continuous resignation 
h~ \ta II' because of unattractive salary packages. Again most of the professionals and 
para-rrofessionals are not computer literate. For automation of public libraries to be a 
re<Jlit~ in Ghana. the library staff needs to learn how to use computers in libraries. 
4.1.3. ATTITUDINAL PROBLEMS 
The attitude of most people to libraries and librarians in a developing country like Ghana 
ka\C much to be desired. The attitude of high officials in government in helping with 
.!llllllll:llion has been uncooperative. On the other hand, the attitude of library staff to 
,llIlolllation has not been the best, With the introduction of computers in many library 
l'cl,IIII1I1\. libr<JrJans have shielded away from trying to use it and see if it could solved 
'IIIlle' 01 their problem" The conservative nature of librarians is not doing the image of 
Ihe prokssion any good nor is it helping the automation of the Accra Central Library. 
I hl' ,I lId~ revealed that. training of library staff both professional and non-professional 
III 1I11llrUlcr applications in libraries is indispensable, Peoples' attitudes would have to 
Lhall~L "Ild I inraries ml!';1 he recognized as very importallt in national development. 
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4.1.4 STABLE POWER SUPPLY 
I!: of the most critical factors that will affect the smooth running of automating th!: 
:cra Central Library is a stable power supply. Frequent power outage these days do not 
ty halt operations and lead to loss of valuable data but also lead to eventual breakdown 
the system. Again. Ghana as a tropical country with high temperature. humidity and 
5t mak!:s it difficult to have a dust free air-conditioned em· nment. 
Z DISCUSSION OF PROSPECTS RELATED TO AUTOMATING THE ACCRA 
CENTRAL LIBRARY 
e acting Director of Public Library Services in an answer to an interview sees the 
tomation of the Accra Central Library as a dream to come true. She says it would 
pose staff to the use of microcomputers to search and locate information thereby 
hancing their effectiveness and efficiency in their services to library clienteles. improve 
:ir information skills and skills in word processing and desktop publishing. 
ven til!: necessary budgetary allocation from the central government. the Accra Central 
'rar~ \Hlldd improve its services to further promote the research and recreational needs 
h,)lh hhrary staff and clientele. For instance, the library can introduce new online 
orl11ation sources like the electronic journal and electronic bulleting board system. The 
roJuction of electronic journal would enable the library clientele to view ideal texts 
II ar!: related to their research interest from a computer database. Apart from these the 
LT,I (ciltral Library can undertake current services for library staff and library clientele 
thLl, rc\carch proj!:cts. One way of doing this is through matching the interest profile 
stall and library clientele with current publicatiol1s and notifying them through til!: 
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electronic notice boards. Another way is by providing Selective Dissemination of 
Information for staff and library clientele by conducting searches of appropriate 
databases that matches their profiles. This can be done online using the Il1!ernet and the 
resulting citations mailed to them. 
Another area that may be beneficial to the library and must be considered is the 
possibility of the Accra Central Library forming a union with other public libraries. 
Although none of the public libraries in Ghana is presently automated, enteri"g such 
cooperation with other public libraries will help put the resources of other libraries at the 
disposal of the Accra Central Library through Inter-Library Lending and document 
delivery based on the establishment ofa union catalogue. 
4.3 SUMMARY OF RESULTS 
I he study undertaken by the researcher was to determine I "e problems and prospects of 
automating the Accra Central Library. In this era of information explosion. the majority 
Ill' the problems in information centers such as libraries are being overcome with the 
introduction of computers in libraries operations. Again. the development of computer 
based libraries have been to save time. time and energy and to contain future expansion. 
fhe result of the survey indicated that all the respondents, that is library staff including 
till' ,i!redor of the Public Library Services and library clientele, felt that it is time to 
autlli11~IlC the Accra Central Library and that automation would improve effectiveness and 
efticicllc: in service delivery and easy and fast access to information. The high rate of 
librar: u~e h: ,tuLienh (84.4%) is an indication of how the librar~ is well patronized b) 
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the students in the schools in the Accra Metropolis. The survey indicates that the 
patronage of the library is good. Daily visit (62.0%) by the library clientele and (49.1%) 
of the library clientele have use the library between 1-5 years. Most of the library 
clientele (77.8%) would prefer access to the library collection through the use of 
wmputer systems. Again. as to whether library clientele like the current service of 
information provision by the library staff. majority of the library clientele (66.7%) 
indicated they do not like the current service provision but agreed that with the 
Illtroduction of computer systems in library operation. things will change positively. Last 
but not the least. the present task facing management is that. funds received from the 
central government is woefully inadequate makin,g public library management an 
e\rel1~ive venture. 
4.4 CONCLUSION 
The emphasis in libraries is rapidly changing from just collection development to access 
1" Illfill"lnation. Providing access to information has become the principal goal and 
.1\:ti\ it~ and coping with the technology and change are the principal driving lorces of the 
c'llIl'l ~:I1!:! information age library. The explosion in the quantity. cost and 
",,111: llilicability of information is a new phenomenon that calls for new responses. 
Ilk·,e I'e~pomcs must be a willingness to embrace new tcchnology and aCl.:ept 
cll,lll!:!e. \Vithoul doubt. the fever of computerization h~ griped the Accra Central 
lihrar~. The ability of computers to hold large amount of information and to print items 
i"lom different access points all derived from a single record is beyond human 
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I'his study was initiated to see what was preventing the Accra Central Library from 
automating its library processes and the benefits it will derive from automation. The 
study revealed that among other things the library clientele. statf and management of the 
Accra Central Library are aware of the numerous benefit of computerization of library 
processes. However. financial. attitudinal. personnel and problems associated with the 
lack of stable power supply are the obstacles to automating the library. The study also 
shows that library automation is an effective means of introducing new information 
media to enhance the information provision of public libraries and hence improve the 
research situation among the library clienteles. The study led to the following 
wnclusions: 
(a) The Accra Central Library's automation.is a necessity, if the needs of the 
library clientele - students, researchers. lectures among others in Accra 
Illetropolis are to be met. 
(b) The Accra Central Library automation programme can serve as an adopted 
programmes in other regional public libraries when implemented. 
11"\\e:\ c:r. these conclusions can only be put into effect when there is the adoption of the 
l1e:cc:s~ary standards or policies by the appropriate authorities to provide guidelines for 
""Ih illfllrl11<1tioll technology and public libraries development in Ghana and there is also 
tho: aJo:quate provision of government funding or donor-support. 
4.5 RECOMMENDATIONS 
111 C"'lllo:ctions with the findings of the study. the following recommendations are made: 
(~I) I.ibrar~ automation costs money therefore. public libraries administrator~ 
,IHluIJ make sure that they present a well-organizcd programme to the ccntrnl 
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government to make them interested in the cor 'Iterization of the Accra 
Central Library. 
(b) The automation of the Accra Central Library can succeed only with financial 
support from the central government. Therefore funds and other supports from 
other organizations should be provided to the Accra Central Library. 
(c) There should be an organized training programme in the use of computers in 
libraries for professionals and para-professionals staff at the Accra Central 
Library. This would eliminate isolation tendencies being felt by the library 
staff 
(d) The Ghana Library Association should organize seminars and workshops on 
computer applications in libraries to create interest in this area. 
It i~ therefore advised that the government change their present lukewarm attitude to 
Ilhrary development in the country if they intend to embark on the introduction of 
information technology into the country. In these days of meager budgetary allocation for 
public institutions, public libraries administrators must also be in the forefront of all 
funding generating programmes for libraries development in their respective jurisdiction. 
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BIBLIOGRAPHY 
ADAMS. R. . "Development of the Automation oflnter-Lending by Micro-
Computers systems at Leicester Polytechnic" in Programs vol. 19 no. (January. 
1985). 
AUSTI N, J. E. . ''Training for Automated Circulation System: The New Zealand 
Experience Asilb Proceedings Vol. 40. No, 4 (1983), 
ALSTON, R. c.. "The Grammer of Research: Some implications of Machine-
Readable Bibliography" in British Library Journal. Vol. 18. No.5. (1985). 
BADU, E. E., "The Use of Computers in Ghana Libraries", Ghana Library Journal 
Vot.8 (November, 1989). 
BAI.LARD. A. A., "CONCERT: A Communication Network for the future," in 
Concert. Notes 1 (I): (1982). 
I~ ilL A. D., "Integrated systems: Dream vs. Reality." Library Journal 109 (12): 
( 1(82). 
BOSS. R. W. and MARCUM, D. B., "Online Acquisition Systems for Libraries". 
Library Technology Report. Vol.l7 No.2. (1981). 
BREIT. P. T. Systems Library. Milan, MEDSI/Mc Graw-Hili. (1996). 
COlltemporary Development in Librarianship. An International Handbook. Ed. By 
Mile!> M. Jackson, Library Association: London, (1981). 
COTTA-SCHONBERG. M. V. "Automation and Academic Library Structure" in 
I.ibri Vlli. 39 No.1. (1989). 
i)1 (,J '\ '\ \I~(). Richard, "Shining Gears: Information Technology and Academic 
1 Ibi.lIll·'·· ill Libran Journal. Vol. 109, No. II. (June 15. 1984). 
7() 
University of Ghana  http://ugspace.ug.edu.gh
IOWLlN C.F., "Local Area Network: Colorado's IRVING PROJECT." 
{ilson Library Bulletin. 60, (September. 1988). 
>STEIN. S .. "Buy. build. adapt - or forget it!" in Library Journal. Vol. I 08. No.9 
1ay, 1988). 
v' ANS, E. T.. Tropical Library Service. London; Andre Dentsh Limited. (1964) . 
•E XNER. J. M .. Circulation Work in Public Libraries. Chicago, American Library 
isociation. (1927). 
)LLET. J .. Joint Funding Council's Library Review: Report. Bristol; Steer Press. 
!193). 
\lIDET . .I. A .. "Automation the Circulation Services of a Small Library," Library 
:sources and Technical Services Vol. 31, No.3. (1987). 
lANA LIBRARY BOARD: Silver Jubilee Brochure, Accra; Select Promotions and 
blications. (1975). 
IERNSEY . .I., "The Information Professions in the Electronic Age" London Clive 
ngl(!)' Limited. ( 1993). 
nod's Librarians' Glossary and Reference Book. 61h ed. England; Grower 
hlication Company. (1987). 
RRING, J. E., School Librarianship 2"u ed. London: Stanley Publishers. 
lH.lon. ( 19l )3). 
·DEM. K. A .. "Application of computer technology in the libraries of Ghana". In 
Irnal of Intormation science. Princioles and practice. Vol. 16. No.6 (1990). 
\!BER.. R.l .. Automation In Libraries. 2nu Ed. Oxtord: Pergamon Press, (1996). 
,SNFR.. Roo Microcomputers In Libraries. Westport: Greenwood Press, (1984) 
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LOVECY. I.. Automating Library Procedures: a SUI .or's handbook; London. 
Library Association. (1984). 
MANCHESTER City Council Art and Leisure Committee. IT Strategy Statement. 
Manchester: The Scarecrow Press,( 1995). 
MARTYN, J., Libraries and Information in Britain: The British Council. London. 
(1987). 
MURISON. S., Computer-Based Library System 2nd edition. Toronto; Wiley Heyde 
Limited, (1988). 
ROWLEY, J. E., Comouters for Libraries. 2nd ed. London, Clive Bingley. (1993). 
TEDD. L. A., An Introduction to Computer-Based Systems. 2nd Ed. New York; John 
Wiley and Sons. (1984). 
THOMPSON, V. . "Training for Automated Circulation Systems: The New 
Zealand Experience". Aslib Proceedings. Vol. 49. No.2 1997 
WHITE. S. T., Computers 2nd edition. Belmont; Wadsworth Publication Co., 
( 1996). 
WILSON, M. . Networking, An extension Publication of New State College. 
Nev. York. (1988). 
VY AS, K. . AUTOMATION AND NETWORKING IN INDIA. London; The Ronald 
Pn:~s Com pany, (1997). 
!i\IIIRUDDIN, K. . "Managing a Library Automation Project," Aslib Vol. 
oll!. No.1 (1998). 
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APPENDIX (A) 
THE BOOKSTOCK OF ACCRA CENTR ,L LIBRARY. 
ra'\S~:\o: I I 
i (IW,C) I I 0 011 I 1011 1 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 ."F FIC I TOT\1. 
I 
I REFERENO:! I 
: 1.1 BR 'RY 652 II (7 III 264 176 1,1107 1.492 330 389 1368 8.128 
I LE~DING I 
I.IBRAR\ i 40,129" 
I ! I 
-; 
CHILORE"'S 
I 
UIJR\lH III 23 577 907 I H44 I 568 283 . 119 98 lllll 3730 53JJ I 9.063 i 
~E'ISI()" 
I I 
I.IBR\R\ 73 31 I (,8 911 J58 292 174 72 141 310 17f19 851 ! 2.560 
TOTAL I TmHiI" i 
Der.II. could nol be provIded by Ihe heRd of deparlmenl. 
Key: N/F = Non-fiction FIC. = Fiction 
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APPENDIX "B" 
QUESTIONNAIRE FOR LIBRARY CLIENTELE 
This is a study on the prospects and problems of automating public libraries in 
Ghana. Your responses will enable the researcher to get the needed information for 
tbe work. The findings will also help towards improving the services of the public 
libraries in Gitana. Please. kindly provide the answers to these questions. Any 
information you provide would be treated as confidential. Thank You. 
Signed: Elijah A. Mensah. 
Instruction: Please make a tick in the box ( J which provides the correct ~lDswcr or 
write down the answer in the space provided. 
1. Sex (a) male I J 
(b) female ( I 
2. Prcscnt status 
(a) student ( I 
(b) resea rcher I I 
(c) lecturer I J 
(d) others (specify) ..................................... .. 
J. \\ hell do) Oll norrmilly visit the Accra Central library? 
(.1) mornings I I 
(h) afternoon, I I 
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(c) evenings I I 
4. How often do you visit the Accra Central library? 
(a) once a week I ) 
(b) twice a week I J 
(c) three times in a week [ I 
(d) more than three times in a week I 
(e) daily I J 
(I) others (specify) ..................................................................... . 
5. For how long have you been using the library? 
(a) less than a year I I 
(b) I - 5 years I I 
(e) 6 - 10 years I ) 
(d) II - 15 years I I 
(e) over 15 years I I 
(l. What service(s) do you lise at the Accra Central Library? 
(a) reference (looking for information) only I I 
(b) borrowing (checking out of books) only I I 
(e) reading the day's newspaper only I ) 
(d) reading persomll book only I ) 
(l') olhers, please specify .............................. . 
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7. The library catalogue holds library collections of a particular work or works on 
a particular subject and their locations on the shelf. The library catalogue aid 
lihnlry patrons like you to search for information. In your opinion, do you think 
the exiting method of using the library catalogue to search for information time 
consuming? 
(a) yes I I 
(b) no I J 
8. Again is the library catalogue method of information searching too complex? 
(a) yes I I 
(b) no ( I 
9. If you answer yes for questions 9 & 10, would you prefer access to the library 
collections through the computer systems? 
(a) yes ( J 
(b) no I I 
10. If the yes. why the computer·! ............................................................... . 
II. In no, why·! ...................................................................................... . 
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12. How would you rate the present libral) resources? Please write the letter 
that best corresponds to your answer in the space provided. 
(A) Excellent (8) Good (e) Satisfactory (D) Poor 
(a) reference materials I J 
(b) journal I J 
(c) photocopying facilities ( J 
(d) fiction I J 
(e) others (specify) ............................................................................. . 
13. Do you like the current services of information provision by the library 
staff! 
(a) yes I I 
(b) no I I 
14. If yes, which aspect of the services do you like? ......................................... . 
15. If no. do you think with the introduction of computer systems in library 
operations things will change? 
(a) yes I J 
(b) no I I 
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16. 
16. If :ves. how will things change? ...........................................................  
.......................................................................................................... 
........................................................................... , ............................. . 
................................................................... , ................................. . 
17. In no, please give your reason(s) ....................................................... . 
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APPENDIX "en 
OUESTIONNAIRE FOR LIBRARY STAFF 
This is a study on the prospects and problems of automating public libraries in 
Ghana. Your responses will enable the researcher to get the needed information for 
the work. The findings will also help tOl\ ards improving the services of thc public 
libraries in Ghana. Please. kindly provide the responses to these questions. Any 
information you provide would be treated as confidentilli. Thank You. 
Signed: Elijah A. Mensah. 
Instruction: Please, tick I I the right option in a Yes/No or a multiple - choice 
question. Where questions require a written - in answer, use the space provided. 
t. Please indicate your department. ........................................................ .. 
2. Sex (a) male ( ) 
(b) female I I 
3. For hon long have you worked at the Accra Central Library? 
(a) less than a year I I 
(b) 1-3 years I J 
(c)4 - 6 years I J 
(II) 7 - 10 )'cars I 
(l') mer 10 ~'ear' I I 
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4. What is your present rank in the library? 
(a) junior library assistant I I 
(b) library assistant I I 
(c) senior library assistant I J 
(d) library officer [ I 
(c) principal/chief library officer [ I 
(f) assistant librarian [ I 
(g) librarian [ I 
(h) senior librarian 
(i) others (specify) ....................................................................... .. 
5. Who arc your most clienteles? 
(a) students [ I 
(h) researchers [ 
(c) lecturers I 
(d) adults [ I 
(c) others (specify) ........................................................................... . 
h. \\110 conducts searches ill the catalogues'! 
(a) IIsers .~~ 
(b) library staff I I ~~'a;;'-s .:; 
(c) users with the help of library staff [ I :;) + 4."") 
~/.R"" 
(d) others (spcclf~) .............................................................................  
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34. Do you encounter problems when locating books on the shelves after using 
the catalogue, charging and discharging of books and conducting searches? 
(a) yes I I 
(b) no [ I 
35. If yes, what arc these p .. oblems ......................................................... .. 
9. In your opinion, are your clients satisfied with the services you provide? 
(a) yes I J 
(b) 110 I I 
Ill. I I' yes, how are they satisfied? ................................................................ .. 
11. If no, why are they not satisfied? ........................................................... .. 
12. Arc you computer literate? 
(a) yes I J (b) no I J 
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13. If yes, which of the following are you able to use the computer for? 
(a) word processing I I 
(b) CD - ROM searching ( J 
(e) Internetsearching ( I 
(d) Others (specify) ......................................................... , .......... " ....... . 
14. In your opinion, do you think it is time to automate the Accra Central Library? 
(a) yes I I 
(b) no I 
15. If yes, please indicate which library housekeeping services in your opinion need 
urgent automation? 
(a) ordering I acquisition 
(b) circulation 
(c) reference 
(d) classification & cataloging 
(e) others (specify) .......................................................................... . 
\6. Why your choice of answer for question 15? ........................................... .. 
'-. "\ III/ all~" cr 'HI to question 13,,, hy no'! ............... . 
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................................................................................................ 
18. If you answer no for question 11, do you not think your job will be on the line if 
the Accra Central Library is automated? 
(II) yes I I 
(b) no I J 
19. Ifnowhynot? .................................................................................. . 
20. In your opinion, which of the resource(s) available at the Accra Central Library 
supports library automation? .............................................................. . 
21. What factor(s) do you think hinders automating the Accra Central Library? 
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APPENDIX "0" 
I~TERVIEW FOR DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC LIBRARY SERVICES 
This j, a stud)' on the prospects and problems of automating public libraries in 
Ghana. Your responses will enable the researcher to get the needed information for 
the work. The findings will also help towards improving the services of the public 
libraries in Ghana. Please, kindly provide the answers to these questions. Any 
information you provide would be treated as confidential. Thank You. 
Signed: Elijah A. Mensah. 
1. Does the Accra Central Library have computer(s)? ................................ . 
2. I f yes, w hat type of computer(s)? ........................................................ . 
3. In you answer yes for question (2), since when has the board had computer(s)? 
.... Again. if yo II answer yes for question (2). what are these computer(s) used for? 
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5. If you answer no for question (3), does the Board have the intention to 
purchase computer(s) in future? .................................................... · ... 
6. If yes, what will these computers be used for? ........................................ . 
7. In no, why no? ................................................................................... . 
8. Does the Board ha\'e plans to automate the Accra Central Library? .............. .. 
9. If yes, for what purpose? .................................................................... .. 
III. Again if yes, does the present personnel favour automation? ...................... .. 
II. Docs the BU<lrd employ personnel with InformatiOl, fechnolog)' background? 
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12. If no, do you think training of the library staffs both professional and para-
professional in the computer application in libraries are indispensable? .......... . 
13. Whichever answer is given, please state your reason(s) .............................. . 
14. If no for question 13. why no? ............................................................... . 
15. If you answer yes for question for (9). which of the library operations do you 
intent to automate? ............................................................................  
16. In your opinion, what effect will automation have on the library operations at 
the Accra Central Library? ............................................................. . 
17. Do you cn\isage any financial problems with computer applications at the Accra 
Central Library? ................................................................................ . 
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18. If yes, specify ....................... ············· .. · .. · .. · .. ·· .. ······.·.····· ................... .. 
19. Do you envisage any technical problems with computer application at the Accra 
Central Library? .................................................................................. .. 
20. State reasons for your answer ............................................................. .. 
21. What has been the position of management to computer application tit the Accra 
Central Library·! ..................................................................................... . 
22. Do you receive enough funds for your library operations? ............................ . 
23. Whichever answer is given for question (22), please give reasons for your 
i 
answer ........................................................................................... .. 
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