The Role of Georgetown Public Library in Meeting the Academic Information Needs of High School Learners

Abstract

High school learners have various information needs crucial for the acquisition of knowledge and skills in preparing them for future academic progress. This study set out to investigate the role of Georgetown public library in meeting the academic information needs of high school learners. It established the nature of academic information sought by learners, ascertained the learners’ information-seeking behaviour and determined the ways Georgetown public library (in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa) uses to meet the academic information needs of high school learners. A quantitative research approach was adopted, and the survey research design was used. Through a systematic sampling technique, the study randomly administered 291 questionnaires to high school learners in the Georgetown public library in the Edendale area. Data were analysed following a descriptive analysis method. The results of the study revealed that, among others, the nature of academic information needs of learners included information to perform various school projects; doing assignments; improving reading skills; obtaining information for tasks given by teachers; and gaining access to computers and space. Some learners were familiar with library operations and possessed limited skills; therefore, they sought information on their own. However, some sought assistance from and heavily relied on library staff for seeking information to satisfy their information uncertainty, and for help with computer usage. Books were the main resource of the library utilised by high school learners, although other resources such as encyclopaedias, magazines, newspapers, CDs, study guides, textbooks, and dictionaries were also used. The study concluded that most learners understood their information needs, although they used different ways to satisfy them. The availability of computers and assistance from the librarians were crucial for them to meet their academic information needs. The study recommends that Georgetown public library should be aware of the needs of Grade 10 high school learners and understand their information-seeking behaviour to assist with guidance, knowledge and computer skills.