Assessing the Importance of Knowledge Management Practices in Selected Public Library Operations in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Siphelele Ngcamu; Petros Dlamini

doi:10.25159/2663-659X/21020

Authors

Siphelele Ngcamu University of Zululand https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0001-1709
Petros Dlamini University of Zululand https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0014-419X

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2663-659X/21020

Keywords:

knowledge management, knowledge management practices, knowledge creation, dissemination, gathering and public libraries

Abstract

This study assesses the importance of knowledge management practices in selected public library operations in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The research is underpinned by the SECI model, which comprises four steps: socialisation, externalisation, combination and internalisation. The model explains the transformation and sharing of tacit and explicit knowledge in organisations. Grounded in the interpretivist paradigm, the study adopted a qualitative approach using a social anthropological lens to explore librarians’ lived experiences. The data were collected through telephonic semi-structured interviews with eight purposively selected librarians from public libraries in the district and analysed thematically. The findings revealed that all eight libraries have knowledge management practices in place and that these practices are essential to the uMkhanyakude public libraries, particularly in maintaining relevant and user-friendly services. The study recommends strengthening and expanding the application of knowledge management practices in selected public libraries.

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