The development of LibGuides at Cape Peninsula University of Technology Libraries and the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on their usage

Abstract

LibGuides have been used by librarians at Cape Peninsula University of Technology since 2012 as a means of providing subject-based information to students, with quick links to selected resources and information supplementing information literacy training. Lecturers use the resources for preparing lectures and identifying learning materials, while researchers and postgraduate students use research support guides when writing their papers. As the worldwide pandemic caused a major lockdown, academic institutions in South Africa were closed and students sent home. However, students still needed to complete their studies, and librarians at Cape Peninsula University of Technology had to continue providing support to these students. One of the online services available was LibGuides. This article provides insight into the historical developments of LibGuides at Cape Peninsula University of Technology, the use of LibGuides during lockdown, and the experiences of a selected group of students and librarians.

Redefining academic library work: Telecommuting potential in post-COVID Ghana

“…The closure of physical library facilities was a common response (Harris, 2021) and forced the need to plan for how to continue providing and disseminating information to library patrons (Omeluzor et al, 2022). It compelled libraries to be more innovative in their traditional functions and quickly transition towards digital alternatives, including the use of electronic resources, electronic books and digital magazines (Becker et al, 2022; Sujood et al, 2023; Wakeling et al, 2022). Again, during lockdowns, academic libraries were critical in providing remote learning options to their patrons.…”

The Role of Digital Technologies in Building Research Competencies of Future Doctors of Philosophy

“…LibGuides facilitate quick information retrieval, which reflects information literacy. The LibGuides online service is widely used at Cape Peninsula University of Technology (Becker et al, 2022). Information technologies increase the level of professional competence in the work with scientific information.…”