Investigating Challenges and Interventions in the Implementation of Libraries Strategic Plans in Selected Public University Libraries in Kenya

Abstract

Strategic plan provides different avenues for libraries to make options that give emphasis to their relevance in a competitive environment and to create sustainable benefits. However, university libraries that have embraced strategic plans are usually faced with the challenges of implementing the formulated strategies. The purpose of the study was to establish the challenges experienced in the implementation of strategic plans in selected Kenyan public university libraries with a view to propose interventions that can be used to improve the implementation the plans in these libraries. The objectives of the study were to identify the challenges affecting implementation of strategic plans in Kenyan public university libraries, propose appropriate interventions to improve implementation of strategic plans in Kenyan public university libraries. The study adopted triangulation type of mixed methods research approach employing descriptive survey within a pragmatic philosophical paradigm. Quantitative data was collected by use of questionnaires while qualitative data was by use of interview schedule. The population of study was 277 respondents from purposively selected five public universities. Yamane’s formula was used to get a sample of 134 respondents. Stratified sampling was used to sample library staff while purposive sampling was used to select Deputy Vice Chancellors, and Finance Officers. Quantitative data was analysed statistically and findings presented in tables, charts and graphs while qualitative data was grouped into themes and analysed using content analysis. The findings reveal that change of priorities, Leadership turnover, inadequate finances, lack of staff commitment strongly impacted on the implementation of strategic plans. The study recommends that management to consider allocating adequate budget and also recruitment of sufficient and qualified staff, stakeholder involvement, conducting regular training of staff as sensitization of staff, regular monitoring and evaluation among others