Measuring the success of library 2.0 technologies in the African context

Abstract

PurposeThis study aims to examine the suitability of information systems (IS) success model in the adoption of library 2.0 technologies among undergraduate students in the African context, and focused at the Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS) of Tanzania.Design/methodology/approachBased on the IS success model, the study re‐specified and validated the IS model to examine adoption of library 2.0 technologies via a structural equation modeling (SEM) approach. The study examined the role of quality (service quality, information quality and system quality) in influencing user perceived net benefits, satisfaction and intention to reuse library 2.0 application. A case study research design was used in this study. Self‐administered questionnaire were distributed to all first year undergraduate students (n=408) at MUHAS, with a rate of return of 71.8%.FindingsThe study findings confirm the validity of using the proposed IS model for library 2.0 adoption assessment. The users’ intention to reuse is quite important, and accurately predicts the usage behaviour of library 2.0 services. The perceived net benefits had the strongest effect on users’ intention to reuse library 2.0 systems than any other determinants within the model. Among the three quality‐related constructs, service quality had the strongest total effect on perceived net benefits and intention to reuse. Compared to system quality, information quality had the largest effect on user satisfaction. It is thus important for librarians to consider all these factors for effective adoption of library 2.0 projects in research and academic institutions.OriginalityThis is the first comprehensive study focusing on the health sciences library patron's usage behaviour of library 2.0 applications in Tanzania, and reveals findings that are useful for planning and implementing library 2.0 initiatives in other institutions with similar conditions.