MAPPING INFORMATION PATHWAYS: AN EMPIRICAL INVESTIGATION OF PUBLIC UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES IN GHANA

Abstract

Academic libraries stand as vital pillars within civil society, serving as bastions of knowledge and facilitating the pursuit of education, research, and intellectual inquiry. This paper underscores the imperative of ensuring the vitality and relevance of academic library book collections in contemporary liberal democracies. Drawing upon insights from Ishola (2014), the study emphasizes the critical need for academic libraries to cultivate collections characterized by both depth and breadth, encompassing a diverse array of subjects to cater to the multifaceted needs of users. Moreover, the primary mission of university libraries, as articulated by Ishola (2014), is to provide robust support for teaching, learning, and research endeavors, aligning with the overarching goals of the institution. To fulfill this mandate effectively, library resources and services must exhibit qualities of quality, depth, diversity, and currency, thereby enriching the academic landscape and fostering intellectual growth. By delving into these principles, this research aims to advocate for the preservation and enhancement of academic library collections, ensuring their continued relevance and utility in advancing scholarly pursuits and institutional missions.