Exploring online repository software suitability for resource sharing at Makerere University

Abstract

Libraries have explored opportunities for successful resource-sharing initiatives. Makerere University Library (Maklib) is not an exception to the challenge. It is a daunting question that has called for a scan through available options. In pursuit of integrating ICTs in library functions, Maklib implemented an institutional repository (MakIR) in 2006. In 2014 Maklib upgraded MakIR to run on DSpace 4.2 version, which came with digital collection-discovery advantages that supported resource sharing. Two specific DSpace features were tested and proven to be useful for the resource-sharing purpose, namely: ‘request a copy’ and “email subscriptions”. Between 2015 and 2016, the three Librarians who manage the repository reported to have received at least one email notification request every week, on average, for a copy of a document in MakIR collections from an online user. Given its online discoverability, DSpace-driven MakIR has proved its usability to support resource-sharing efforts. The repository and e-resources/periodicals library sections have developed a plan to carry out sensitization campaigns and training workshops for both Makerere University researchers and from the member institutions of the Consortium of Uganda University Libraries (CUUL). The paper analyses the extent of usability of the two DSpace repository software features for resource-sharing purpose.