The usage of Electronic Databases in Academic Libraries in Ghana. The Experience of Ghana Communication Technology University Library (GCTUL)

Abstract

This study examines the use of electronic databases (e-databases) by faculty members at the Ghana Communication Technology University Library (GCTUL). The study used a descriptive research method. Copies of the questionnaire were used for the data collection. Due to the manageable population, no sampling method was used in this study. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (IBM-SPSS 21.0) was used for data analysis. The results showed that most faculty members were aware of the availability of databases in the library. Additionally, the findings established that Emerald, as well as Taylor and Francis, were ranked highly in terms of availability and accessibility. The study identified problems such as difficulty in downloading information as well as poor internet connectivity. Based on the results, the study recommended that library management should address all the challenges that users encounter as soon as possible. This result should be a timely and relevant commodity for policymakers and stakeholders in private and public academic libraries.