12th-Jun-2026
ACADEMIC INSTITUTIONAL VISIT BY KNUST LIBRARY
KNUST LIBRARIES EMBARKED ON BENCHMARKING TOUR TO STRENGTHEN INNOVATION AND SERVICE EXCELLENCE
DAY 1 A Journey of Learning and Innovation: KNUST Library’s Visit to Ashesi University Library.
On a bright morning filled with anticipation and professional curiosity, a delegation from the KNUST Library System embarked on an institutional visit to Ashesi University Library. The visit formed part of KNUST Library’s continuous effort to benchmark best practices, explore innovative service models, and identify opportunities for improving library services in support of teaching, learning, and research. Upon arrival at Ashesi University, the team was warmly welcomed by Nina Chachu, University Librarian and introduced to a library that, although modest in physical size, demonstrated a strong commitment to innovation, technology, and user-centered service delivery. The visit provided an excellent opportunity to observe how a modern academic library is adapting to the rapidly changing information landscape. The tour began with an exploration of the library’s physical spaces. The library currently operates from a single active facility while a larger and more modern library building is under construction. This future development reflects the university’s vision of creating a more conducive environment for learning, collaboration, and research. Within the existing facility, designated discussion areas support collaborative learning among students. However, library staff acknowledged that managing noise levels and ensuring consistent enforcement of library regulations remain ongoing challenges. The discussion highlighted the delicate balance between providing collaborative spaces and maintaining quiet study environments. The team also learned that digital accessibility for persons with disabilities remains an area requiring further development. Nevertheless, the planned expansion of the library presents an opportunity to incorporate more inclusive services and technologies that will enhance accessibility for all users. A significant highlight of the visit was Ashesi University Library’s investment in technology. The library has implemented Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology as part of its efforts to create a more efficient and self-service-oriented environment. Although the self-checkout machine was not operational during the visit, the infrastructure demonstrated a clear commitment to modernizing library operations and improving user convenience. The discussions further revealed that the library is actively pursuing digitisation initiatives and exploring the integration of Artificial Intelligence into future library services. Interestingly, the university has established clear policies regulating the use of AI by students, requiring instructor approval for its use in academic work. This approach reflects a thoughtful balance between embracing innovation and maintaining academic integrity. Another impressive feature was the university’s robust digital infrastructure. Reliable campus-wide Wi-Fi connectivity ensures seamless access to information resources and online services. Students and researchers enjoy access to an extensive collection of electronic databases and research platforms, including ProQuest, EBSCO, Scopus, Dimensions, OpenAlex, Google Scholar, and Open edX. These resources provide strong support for scholarly research and academic excellence. As the visit progressed, attention shifted to user services and research support. The library plays an active role in information literacy education by organizing training sessions that equip users with essential research and information management skills. According to Dinah Koteikor Baidoo, particular emphasis is placed on citation management training using Zotero, enabling students and researchers to efficiently organize, manage, and cite scholarly references. In addition, postgraduate students and faculty members benefit from access to research databases, discovery tools, and tailored information literacy programmes that support academic excellence and enhance research productivity. The delegation was particularly impressed by the library’s strong digital-first collection strategy. While maintaining approximately 43,000 physical volumes, Ashesi University Library prioritizes electronic resources, which constitute nearly 80 percent of its collection. This approach enables wider access to information resources while reducing pressure on physical storage space. The library’s commitment to open science and scholarly communication further demonstrates its dedication to increasing access to knowledge and promoting research visibility. Collection management practices were equally noteworthy. Textbooks are centrally managed and distributed to students, while reference materials are stored off-site. The library also follows a document retention policy that guides the management and preservation of older print materials, ensuring efficient use of available space and resources. The visit provided valuable insights into staff management and professional development. Operating under the Academic Affairs Division, the library is supported by a lean team of three core staff members, assisted by National Service personnel and work-study students. Despite its size, the library has cultivated a strong culture of teamwork, collaboration, and shared responsibility. Professional growth is encouraged through active participation in local and international library networks such as CARLIGH, AFLIA, and the Ghana Library Association. These engagements expose staff to emerging trends and best practices within the profession. The institution also utilizes the PerformYard performance management system, which aligns individual staff objectives with broader institutional goals, fostering accountability and continuous improvement. Throughout the discussions, the delegation observed several innovative practices that distinguish Ashesi University Library. These include the extensive use of electronic resources, RFID-enabled services, strong research support programmes, and the provision of free textbooks to students. The library’s commitment to sustainability is also evident in its reduced reliance on print acquisitions and the use of shared digital infrastructure, resulting in both cost savings and operational efficiency. As the visit drew to a close, the KNUST team reflected on the many lessons learned. Several practices observed at Ashesi University Library present valuable opportunities for adaptation within the KNUST Library System. These include expanding RFID-enabled services, strengthening institutional repository visibility, enhancing bibliometric and research analytics support, broadening information literacy programmes, and increasing investment in electronic resources. Victor Ibeto also shared his thoughts on the importance of strategic partnerships and workforce development in academic libraries. The delegation noted the significant value of strengthening professional collaborations through networks such as CARLIGH and AFLIA, while also exploring more effective ways of engaging National Service personnel and student assistants to support library operations, enhance service delivery, and improve operational efficiency The visit to Ashesi University Library was more than an opportunity to observe library operations; it was a valuable learning experience that reinforced the importance of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement in academic librarianship. The insights gained will undoubtedly contribute to ongoing efforts to enhance library services across the KNUST Library System. As the team departed the Ashesi campus, they carried with them not only new ideas and professional inspiration but also a renewed commitment to transforming library services to better support the evolving needs of students, researchers, and the broader academic community. This version reads like a true institutional visit story rather than a technical report, making it suitable for annual reports, newsletters, conference proceedings, and official KNUST Library documentation.
DAY 2, KNUST Libraries Visits Wisconsin International University College Library to Benchmark Best Practices As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen library services and explore innovative approaches to academic librarianship, a delegation from KNUST Libraries paid an institutional visit to the Wisconsin International University College (WIUC) Library at its North Legon campus. The delegation was warmly received and welcomed by the University Librarian, Mrs. Comfort A. B. Asare, who expressed her delight at hosting the team and facilitating the exchange of ideas between the two institutions. The visit provided a valuable opportunity for knowledge sharing and benchmarking, enabling the KNUST delegation to gain firsthand insights into WIUC Library’s operations, user services, technological innovations, and management practices that support teaching, learning, and research. The engagement also fostered meaningful discussions on best practices, challenges, and opportunities for enhancing academic library service delivery. During the engagement, the delegation learned that the WIUC Library operates from a two-storey facility and maintains specialized libraries for its Law and Nursing programmes. Despite facing challenges related to limited seating capacity due to increasing student enrolment, the library has adopted several innovative measures to enhance the learning experience. These include the introduction of discussion rooms, dedicated study corners, and an indoor garden that creates a calm and welcoming environment for users. The visit also highlighted WIUC Library’s transition from a traditional library model to a user-centred academic resource hub. Library services are closely integrated with academic and professional programmes through facilities such as Nursing Skills Laboratories, Virtual Anatomy Tables, and collaborations with Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Cybersecurity, and Digital Forensics laboratories. In the area of technology and digital services, the library demonstrated its commitment to innovation through the use of the CARLIGH Library Management System, campus-wide Wi-Fi connectivity, computer laboratories, and an AI-powered plagiarism detection service. The delegation also learned about the library’s ongoing digitisation efforts and the development of an Institutional Repository aimed at increasing access to scholarly output and enhancing institutional visibility. Through the MyLoft platform, students and faculty are able to access electronic resources remotely, extending library services beyond the physical campus. The team further observed the library’s strong emphasis on customer service and user engagement. Communication with patrons is facilitated through email, WhatsApp platforms, orientation programmes, and personalized support services. The library also provides information literacy training and research support through specialized collections, electronic resources, and close collaboration with academic departments. Another notable aspect of the visit was WIUC Library’s strategic approach to collection development. In addition to maintaining diverse print and electronic resources, the library has successfully leveraged donations from organizations and individual benefactors to strengthen its collections while reducing acquisition costs. Specialized collections have been developed to support programmes in Communication Studies, International Relations, Environmental Studies, Leadership Studies, Law, and Nursing. The delegation also engaged with library leadership and staff to learn about administrative practices, professional development initiatives, and staff welfare measures. The library encourages continuous learning through annual benchmarking visits to other academic libraries and promotes a culture of teamwork, accountability, and professional excellence. The visit offered several valuable lessons for KNUST Libraries. Key takeaways included the benefits of subject-specific library spaces, stronger donor engagement strategies, the creation of aesthetically appealing learning environments, enhanced integration of emerging technologies into library services, and expanded remote access to information resources. Among the ideas identified for possible adaptation at KNUST are the development of indoor green spaces within library facilities, increased collaboration with academic departments, improved digital user engagement through platforms such as WhatsApp, enhanced donor partnerships, and the strengthening of off-campus access to electronic resources. The visit reaffirmed the importance of continuous benchmarking and institutional collaboration in advancing academic library services. Despite challenges related to space and funding, the Wisconsin International University College Library continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to innovation, user-centred service delivery, and strategic partnerships. Its experiences and best practices provide valuable insights that can contribute to the continued growth and transformation of the KNUST Library System.
DAY 2 KNUST Libraries Benchmarks Best Practices at University of Ghana Balme Library As part of a multi-university benchmarking tour aimed at strengthening library service delivery and enhancing academic support systems, a delegation from KNUST Libraries paid a working visit to the University of Ghana’s Balme Library on May 20, 2026. The visit formed part of a broader institutional learning initiative that included visits to several leading academic libraries in Ghana. The objective was to explore best practices in library space management, technology integration, staff development, accessibility, customer service, and innovative approaches to supporting teaching, learning, and research. The KNUST delegation was warmly received by the Acting Librarian of Balme Library, Mr. Aggrey Samuel, and his team. During the engagement, library officials provided an overview of the University of Ghana Library System, highlighting key developments, operational strategies, and future plans aimed at transforming the library into a dynamic centre for learning, research, and innovation. A major highlight of the visit was the presentation on Balme Library’s extensive infrastructure and userfocused facilities. The library serves a university population of approximately 72,000 students, including distance learners, and provides seating for about 1,000 users through its main facility and 24-hour reading room. The library’s layout includes dedicated spaces such as the Knowledge Commons for undergraduate students, Research Commons for postgraduate researchers, instructional laboratories, digitisation facilities, exhibition halls, conference rooms, and an Africana Collection dedicated to African studies. The delegation also observed several accessibility and security measures implemented by the library. These included disability-friendly electronic access gates, designated spaces for persons with disabilities, and a locker system that enhances user convenience and security. Technology and digital transformation emerged as a key area of interest during the visit. The University of Ghana Library has successfully transitioned through various library management systems and currently operates the FOLIO Library Services Platform, chosen for its flexibility, affordability, and integration capabilities. The library also utilizes the EBSCO Discovery Service (EDS), LibGuides for subject and course support, and DSpace for managing its institutional repository. The delegation learned about the library’s innovative digital services, including an online past questions platform that provides students with convenient access to examination materials through laptops and mobile devices. Additionally, the EasyProxy system enables seamless remote access to electronic resources, supporting both on-campus and off-campus users. Another noteworthy feature was the library’s strong commitment to research support and scholarly communication. Through inter-library collaborations, document delivery services, open-access advocacy, and training in reference management tools such as Zotero and EndNote, the library plays a critical role in advancing research productivity and visibility. The “Chat a Librarian” service and Article Request platform further ensure that users can access professional support and information resources remotely without physically visiting the library. The visit also showcased the library’s vibrant exhibition culture. Faculty research outputs are regularly displayed in conjunction with professorial inaugural lectures, providing a platform for highlighting scholarly achievements and promoting academic engagement within the university community. Discussions further explored the library’s use of data analytics and reporting systems to monitor staff productivity, collection usage, and service performance. Library administrators emphasized the importance of evidence-based decision-making and revealed ongoing efforts to implement research information management systems such as PURE/CRIS to improve research tracking and institutional visibility. The delegation was equally impressed by the library’s extensive community engagement initiatives, including live webinars, guided tours, open science programmes, departmental collaborations, media outreach, and researcher support services. These initiatives reinforce the library’s role as an active partner in the academic mission of the university. Despite its achievements, library management acknowledged challenges including rising subscription costs, limited funding, incomplete research tracking, and varying levels of awareness of research management systems among faculty members. To address these challenges, the library is pursuing several strategic goals, including expanding open-access infrastructure, implementing comprehensive research information systems, strengthening inter-library collaborations, and exploring emerging technologies such as virtual and augmented reality. Reflecting on the visit, the KNUST delegation identified several practices with strong potential for adaptation within the KNUST Library System. Notable among these were the Chat a Librarian service, Article Request platform, enhanced remote access services, structured research support systems, and the strategic use of exhibitions to promote scholarly output. The visit provided valuable insights into how academic libraries can leverage technology, collaboration, and innovation to improve service delivery and user experience. It also reaffirmed the importance of continuous benchmarking and institutional partnerships in advancing the role of libraries as essential centres for knowledge creation and dissemination. As KNUST Libraries continues its transformation agenda, lessons from the University of Ghana Balme Library will contribute significantly to ongoing efforts to enhance library services, strengthen research support, and create more responsive and user-centred learning environments for the university community.
DAY 3 KNUST Libraries Benchmarks Innovation and Inclusive Services at UCC’s Sam Jonah Library As part of a multi-institutional benchmarking tour aimed at enhancing library services and promoting innovation within the KNUST Library System, a delegation from KNUST Libraries paid a working visit to the Sam Jonah Library of the University of Cape Coast (UCC) on May 21, 2026. The visit formed part of a broader initiative to learn from leading academic libraries across Ghana, with a focus on space management, technology integration, staff development, accessibility, scholarly communication, and innovative service delivery models that support teaching, learning, and research. Upon arrival, the delegation was warmly received by staff of the Sam Jonah Library and officially welcomed by the University Librarian, Dr. Mac-Anthony Cobblah. In his remarks, Dr. Cobblah expressed his delight at hosting the KNUST team and emphasized the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing among academic libraries. The KNUST delegation, led by the University Librarian, Dr. Richard Bruce Lamptey, expressed appreciation for the opportunity and reiterated the significance of institutional benchmarking in driving continuous improvement within library systems. A guided tour of the library provided the delegation with firsthand insight into the facilities, services, and innovations that distinguish the Sam Jonah Library as one of Ghana’s premier academic libraries. The tour commenced at the library’s Gallery and Exhibition Section, which preserves the institution’s rich history through photographs, maps, trophies, and archival collections. The gallery also serves as a platform for showcasing the scholarly achievements of distinguished professors during inaugural lectures and other academic events. The delegation subsequently visited the Reference Section, Senior Members’ Commons, GNPC Learning Resources Centre, and the Digitization Unit, where theses and other academic materials are digitized to support preservation and enhance accessibility. These initiatives reflect the library’s commitment to safeguarding institutional knowledge while expanding access to information resources. A major highlight of the visit was the Resource Centre for Alternative Media and Assistive Technology (RCAMAT), a specialized facility dedicated to supporting students with visual impairments and other special needs. Equipped with assistive technologies and staffed by trained personnel, the centre exemplifies the University of Cape Coast’s commitment to inclusive education and equitable access to information. The delegation learned that the university currently serves approximately 80 students with special needs through this facility. The team also toured the Bindery Section, where damaged library materials are repaired and preserved for continued use. Plans are underway to expand the unit’s services to the wider university community, particularly graduating students who require professional thesis binding services. Further exploration of the library revealed innovative user-centred spaces, including the Social Learning Commons, a recreational and relaxation facility designed to support student well-being. The space offers indoor games such as chess, draft, ludo, oware, and cards, providing students with opportunities to unwind and socialize within the academic environment. The delegation noted the strategic importance of such facilities in promoting a balanced and engaging student experience. The visit also included the Law Library and Moot Court, which provide practical learning environments that complement legal education and professional training. Another noteworthy stop was the Scholarly Communication Unit, a critical component of the library’s research support infrastructure. The unit manages seventeen academic journals and oversees scholarly archiving, researcher identification, online journal management, and consultancy services. Through the UCCScholar Platform, the unit actively promotes institutional visibility by tracking and showcasing the university’s research output. Following the tour, the delegation participated in a presentation by Dr. Mac-Anthony Cobblah, who provided an overview of the Sam Jonah Library’s operations and achievements. The presentation revealed that the library has a seating capacity of approximately 2,000 users, houses about 800,000 print volumes, and provides access to more than three million electronic resources, including e-books and scholarly journals. The library also oversees 32 satellite libraries across the university and records an average of 5,000 physical visits daily during peak academic periods. Discussions also focused on staff development and organizational culture. Despite challenges associated with declining staff numbers due to retirements and limited recruitment opportunities, the library continues to invest significantly in capacity building. Annual training programmes are organized for all categories of staff, reinforcing a culture of teamwork, professionalism, effective communication, and continuous improvement. An additional highlight of the visit was the delegation’s participation in the joint University of Cincinnati Libraries and University of Cape Coast Virtual Research Forum. The forum featured presentations on emerging issues in librarianship, including artificial intelligence, digital scholarship, immersive technologies, data management, research visibility, and records management. The sessions provided valuable insights into the evolving role of libraries in supporting innovation and scholarly communication in higher education. During the visit, the delegation also toured the University of Cape Coast Hall of Fame, which celebrates the contributions of former university leaders, distinguished professors, and notable personalities whose efforts have shaped the institution’s growth and legacy. Reflecting on the visit, the KNUST team identified several practices worthy of adaptation within the KNUST Library System. These included strengthening digitization initiatives, enhancing services for persons with disabilities through assistive technologies, establishing social learning and relaxation spaces, investing in scholarly communication programmes, and expanding staff development opportunities. The visit reaffirmed the growing importance of innovation, inclusivity, and collaboration in modern academic librarianship. It also highlighted the critical role libraries play in supporting research excellence, student success, and institutional visibility through technology-driven and user-centred services. The engagement concluded with a renewed commitment to fostering stronger partnerships between KNUST Libraries and the Sam Jonah Library, creating opportunities for future collaboration, professional exchange, and mutual learning. The valuable lessons gained from the visit are expected to contribute significantly to ongoing efforts to enhance service delivery and advance the strategic objectives of the KNUST Library System. Attached is a link to photographs captured during the visit. https://pixies.et/yGtyeYfi
