The provision of access to electronic information by staff in Kwazulu-Natal Department of Health libraries in the digital transformation era

Abstract

This study investigated the provision of staff digital access to information in KwazuluNatal Department of Health (KZN DOH) libraries. The current state of access to information was determined, challenges encountered were identified, systems and technologies used for the provision of access to information were assessed, the level of digital skills for staff members in accessing digital information was examined, and strategies for optimising the utilization of electronic information resources were discovered. National Health Digital Strategy of South Africa (2019 – 2024) emphasis on leveraging technology for better health outcomes aligns seamlessly with the health libraries' mission to provide timely and accurate health information. The goal is to create a seamless digital environment where health professionals, students, and researchers can easily access and utilise various health information resources. Digitisation in libraries is part of technological advancements of the twenty-first century that help to manage information securely and enable efficient retrieval and timeous dissemination. This study adopted interpretivist research paradigm. Qualitative research methodology was used for this study, with phenomenology as the research design. The target population for this study were student nurses, nurses, doctors, lecturers, and librarians from the thirteen (13) hospitals and nursing campus libraries in KwaZulu Natal. Non-probability, judgement, or purposive sampling was adopted, and according to Pathak (2015), it is the best sampling method for a phenomenological study. The sampling frame for this study consisted of student doctors, doctors, student nurses, librarians, lecturers, and other health staff. The study utilised a sample of 73 available and accessible participants across ten hospitals and nursing colleges with digital library resources. Data collection from the recruited participants included interviews, focus group discussions and document analysis. Semi-structured interviews were also conducted to gather participants’ background data and information on library usage. Focus group discussions were utilised to generate discussion among the diverse participants, including student nurses, lecturers, nurses, and doctors. Phenomenological reduction was used for dimension reduction during data analysis. From the librarians' perspective, budgetary technological constraints and the need for improved digital literacy among patrons are significant concerns. In response, librarians have implemented various strategies, including enhancing digital access, providing training, and introducing innovative solutions. Conversely, patrons express satisfaction with the library staff but desire improved network reliability, access to online resources, extended library hours, and further digital literacy training. As the document analysis highlights, the legislative and strategic frameworks provide a roadmap for libraries to align their services with national health objectives and embrace digital transformation. The study recommended enhancing digital infrastructure, improving digital literacy, and adopting innovative technologies to effectively transition to digital information access. The study recommends reducing the digital gap and increasing digital awareness through investment in digital skills among patrons and providing digital tools.