Assessment of the Availability of Information Resources in National Polytechnic Libraries in Kenya: A Case of Rift Valley National Polytechnic Nakuru , Kenya

Abstract

This study assessed the availability of information resources at Rift Valley National Polytechnic (RVNP). Despite increased government investment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and rising student enrolment in National Polytechnics, concerns remain regarding the adequacy and relevance of information resources supporting academic activities. Previous research indicates that many TVET libraries face shortages of current and relevant resources, especially electronic materials, which limits students’ access to timely and diverse information necessary for effective learning. This gap between students’ information needs and available library resources poses a significant challenge to the delivery of high-quality TVET education. Guided by Expectation Confirmation Theory, the study employed a quantitative research approach to examine students’ perceptions of the availability of library information resources. The target population included 2,115 students, from which a stratified random sample of 206 was selected. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), with both descriptive and inferential statistics used to generate and interpret the findings. Findings revealed that print resources, particularly books, were the most available and frequently used information resources in the library, while electronic resources were limited. The study recommends increased investment in electronic information resources, enhancement of digital infrastructure, and continuous development of library collections to ensure that National Polytechnic libraries effectively support teaching, learning, and research in the contemporary knowledge society.