Knowledge sharing among library staff of special libraries in KwaZulu-Natal with special reference to using Information and Communications Technology enabled platforms

Abstract

This is a study on knowledge sharing among library staff of special libraries in KwaZulu-Natal with special reference to Information and Communication Technology enabled platforms. The aim of the study was to explore knowledge sharing among the staff of special libraries in KwaZulu-Natal by using ICT enabled platforms. Once the knowledge has been shared by special library staff using ICT enabled platforms, it may benefit staff of special libraries to gain new knowledge by using ICT enabled platforms to support knowledge sharing. The objectives of the study were to find out if staff in special libraries share knowledge among themselves; to determine the extent to which the staff in special libraries share knowledge among themselves using ICT enabled platforms and to ascertain possible ways in which ICT enabled platforms to support knowledge sharing. The target population of the study were the staff of special libraries in KwaZulu-Natal. A quantitative research method using a survey was used in this study. Online questionnaires were administered to 192 staff of special libraries in KZN. Data were analysed using Microsoft Excel and content analysis was used for the open-ended questions. The findings of the study revealed that special libraries’ staff shared knowledge among themselves. It was found that special libraries’ staff shared knowledge by means of WhatsApp and Facebook with staff at other libraries. This study found that social media platform can be utilized as a knowledge sharing platform among the special libraries’ staff in KZN. It is recommended that social media should be considered as a KS platform for collaboration in all libraries. Knowledge sharing culture should be implemented in all special libraries in KZN. Special librarians can play crucial roles as facilitators of learning forums such as Community of Practice (CoPs), where members teach and learn from each other.