The Role of Institutional Factors on the Sustainability of Institutional Repositories in Selected Kenyan University Libraries | Journal of Librarianship and Scholarly Communication

Abstract:  The study aimed to investigate the role of institutional factors on the sustainability of institutional repositories (IRs) in Kenyan university libraries and propose strategies to improve their sustainability. A positivist approach was employed, using quantitative methodologies with a complement of qualitative elements. The study used a cross-sectional research survey design. Respondents included librarians, postgraduate students, teaching staff, and representatives from research offices from 48 accredited Kenyan universities. Data were collected from six highly ranked universities (University of Nairobi, Kenyatta University, Jomo Kenyatta University of Science and Technology, Egerton University, Strathmore University, and Moi University) using questionnaires, semistructured phone interviews, and document analysis. Quantitative data was analyzed using Statistical Product and Service Solutions and Excel, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. The findings indicated that institutional sustainability factors played a crucial role in the sustainability of IRs. Institutional factors, such as low awareness of IR policy frameworks, lack of management support, lack of stakeholders’ involvement, and inadequate technological know-how among IR librarians influenced the sustainability of IRs. To enhance the sustainability of IRs in Kenyan university libraries, the study recommended that university libraries should establish and publicize IR frameworks. Further, all stakeholders should be involved during the formulation of IR policies. The study also recommended that University libraries should seek management support and recruit/train IR staff with the necessary skills to run all the activities of an IR.