Assessment on the Effects of Library Resources to Public Secondary School Students in Acquisition of Knowledge: A Case of Arusha District

Sabina Ramadhani
Head Teacher; Ngorbob Primary School,
P.O Box 7037- Arusha District.
Email: kimdasabina@gmail.com

Dr. Paul Raphael Kitula
St. Augustine University of Tanzania (SAUT), Arusha.
P.O Box 12385 – Arusha, Tanzania.
Email: kitula07@gmail.com

Abstract: This study assessed the effects of the usage of library resources on the acquisition of knowledge among students in public secondary schools in Arusha district. The study examined condition of library resources in public secondary schools and investigated measures to be taken to improve the condition and effective uses of library resources by secondary school students. Convergent parallel design was adopted. From a target population of 5282, the sample for the study was 98 respondents which included 50 students, 40 teachers, 4 librarians and 4 heads of schools in Arusha district. Stratified random sampling technique was used to select the respondents while school heads were purposively selected. Questionnaires, observation guides and interview schedules were used as data collection instruments. Research experts validated the instruments and the reliability test (TQ=0.86 & SQ=0.79) was conducted using Cronbach alpha. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics to generate mean scores, percentages and frequencies. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data and the presentation was done in words being supported by direct quotations. The study found out that the condition of library resources in public secondary schools was bad as most of the school libraries did not have up to date books. The study recommended for the government and other education stakeholders to support the schools by ensuring that the school libraries have adequate and up to date books. The study also recommended for students to be encouraged to use library resources for them to expand their knowledge and skills.