The provision of library and information services to distance learners: The Open University of Tanzania (OUT)

This paper presents the findings of research conducted on the provision of information services to distance learners by the Open University of Tanzania (OUT). The objective of the research was to discover how the Open University of Tanzania provides library and information services to its distance learners and the extent to which these services meet the needs of the learners. The study was done with a view to suggesting ways in which information provision at OUT could be improved. Data collection was done in the Dar es Salaam and Mwanza regions where a total number of 190 respondents were involved in the survey Findings of the study reveal that the Open University of Tanzania has problems in meeting the information needs of its staff and students. The Main library does not have adequate resources while OUT Information Units at Regional Centres and Tanzania Library Services are poorly stocked. In addition, the few materials that are available do not reflect the curriculum. As a way of alleviating the problem, OUT students use the library services of other nearby institutions. Recommendations to improve the situation are given at the conclusion.