Secondary School Pupils’ Perception of Factors Influencing their Utilization of School Libraries: A Case Study of Three Selected Government Secondary Schools in Lusaka

Abstract

The study investigated Secondary school Pupils’ perception of factors influencing their utilization of school libraries a case of Libala and Olympia park secondary schools. The objectives of the study were to establish pupils’ utilization of their school libraries, to find out pupils’ views about the availability of information resources and services in their school libraries, to find out pupils’ opinions regarding the accessibility information resources & services in their school libraries and to find out pupils’ feelings regarding the adequacy of information resources and services in their school libraries. The study used the qualitative approach and case study research design in order to effectively achieve the research objectives. The target population was grade elevens and twelve from both Libala and Olympia Park secondary schools. The total number of participants involved in the study was 42 from two schools. Interview was the main data collection tool in this study and triangulation method was also engaged during data collection and it included observations. The findings indicated that library materials were not adequately available in school libraries and certain school library did not have library materials for learners to use. It was also observed that school library had little study space and therefore, priority was given to the grade 12 at the time of data collection. The finding also indicated that a good number of pupils were not utilizing the library facilities due to various reasons that include distance from their home and school thus; when they knock off they used to go home directly as well as lack of relevant books in their library. The recommended that there was a need to fund school libraries adequately as well as deploy trained librarian in schools, expand school library facility because the current study space is too small and for future researchers, the study recommended that they investigate why certain school libraries like that of Olympia Park secondary are less effective than others like Libala school library. Finally, the study recommended that there was a serious need for proper management of school libraries.