A content analysis of articles in the University of Dar es Salaam Library Journal

Abstract

Using Zin’s Classification Scheme of Information Science, this study seeks to analyze the content of articles published in the University of Dar es Salaam Library Journal (UDSMLJ). All the analyzed articles were retrieved from the African Journals Online (AJOL) platform. A content analysis approach was used to analyze the collected data. Notably, a majority of the analyzed articles focused on three LIS research areas: information use and users; LIS activities; and LIS application areas. A growing trend in the publication of articles related to metrics, evaluation, and research, and a decline in the publication of articles pertaining to information use and users was also noted. Only a moderate number of articles incorporated theoretical frameworks. The majority of the articles employed a mixed-method approach for data collection and analysis. The study found limited international contributions in the journal, as the majority of contributing authors were from Tanzania. The study concludes that the published articles reflect the state of LIS scholarship in the country, given that they predominantly originate from Tanzanian contributors. The study recommends the journal enhances its promotional strategies to attract potential contributors from around the world. Additionally, journal's editors should encourage the submissions of articles that incorporate theoretical perspectives, thereby fostering theoretical advancements in the field of LIS.