The state of library funding compliance by university libraries in Uganda

Abstract

This study examined the extent to which university libraries in Uganda complied with the funding policy by the National Council of Higher Education, which requires institutions to spend not less than 10% of their budgets on libraries. Findings revealed that systemic underfunding exists, with most universities putting in merely 2% to 5%, affecting library collections, staffing levels, and ICT infrastructure standards. This inquiry employed several data-gathering techniques, including a survey of 95 library staff, interviews with 12 heads of libraries, as well as documentary analysis. Findings further revealed systemic reliance on unsustainable donor funding, poor policy enforcement, and dependence on unsustainable alternative revenue streams. Hence, the research concludes that non-compliance threatens the realization of quality in academia and even in the accreditation of the institutions. The study then recommends that to address these challenges, strict enforcement of NCHE funding policies should be undertaken, and library revenues should be diversified through income-generating activities, capacity building, and concerted lobbying for Uganda university libraries against the national and international library funding standards. The reliable implementation of these strategies would enhance the quality of teaching and learning in Uganda.