Abstract:
As indicated in the background, academic libraries have transformed themselves into learning
commons as they now provide fewer physical resources, flexible learning environment, rooms for
knowledge sharing among groups, technology that aids learning, wireless connectivity and outlet
access, integrated academic support services, and food, drink and relaxation provision to improve
the quality of their service provision. (Sinclair, 2007). However, it has been observed that the
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university of Zambia library does not provide most of the above stated features and still operates
in a traditional library set up. This implies that the services provided by UNZA library do not meet
the trends of a learning common.
Furthermore, the failure of a library to transform into a learning common affects both the library
and its patrons, the library is affected in such a way that it loses its relevance to the community it
serves as time goes by, which in turn affects the patron’s opportunity for long-term understanding
and need for the information provided in the library.
It is imperative therefore that this research is conducted to investigate the plans, if any that UNZA
library management has put in place for its transformation into a learning common.
