Knowledge Management Practices in Academic Libraries in Ghana

Abstract

Rationale of Study – This study investigated the extent and nature of knowledge management practices among Ghanaian academic libraries.
Methodology – To achieve the aims of the study, an exploratory survey research design was employed. The study was mainly qualitative, with data collected from thirty-one (31) head librarians of the selected academic libraries using interviews. Data collected were analysed using the thematic approach.
Findings – Findings showed that the extent and nature of KM by academic libraries were bifurcated, given that the academic libraries had to deal with knowledge from two streams. One is knowledge gained through professional library practices and the second deals with knowledge from the academic community, including both student and faculty research. The findings also showed that with regards to the knowledge management practices employed by libraries to manage knowledge in academic libraries, mentorship, coaching, peer assistance, refresher courses, open access, conferences, orientation programmes and brainstorming were some of the KMP used in the academic libraries of Ghana.
Implications – The way forward for academic libraries to fully embrace KM is for academic institutions to properly equip their libraries with modern technologies.
Originality – This is one of the few studies exploring KM practices in academic libraries in sub-Saharan Africa.