Dissemination of health information by public libraries in the Khomas region, Namibia

This study investigated the dissemination of health information by public libraries in the Khomas region of Namibia. The objectives of the study were to determine if public libraries in the Khomas region are disseminating health information to their communities; identify the types of health information being disseminated; explore the challenges and opportunities faced by public libraries in the dissemination of health information; and investigate possible solutions to the challenges. The study targeted library staff working in public libraries in the Khomas region. A qualitative research approach with purposive sampling was used to obtain data through semi-structured interviews. The data was analysed using thematic and content qualitative data analysis. The study found that public libraries play a major role in the dissemination of health information, as library staff showed that they understood their responsibilities of distributing health information to members of the public. The study further revealed that public libraries use various sources such as pamphlets, brochures, leaflets, magazines, newspapers and books to disseminate health information to community members. In addition, it was found that one of the major challenges in disseminating health information is a lack of collaboration between public libraries and other organisations to provide health information to users. A further challenge is the insufficient availability of health books in public libraries with content suitable for the intended audience. The study recommends that all the raised challenges be resolved to facilitate health information dissemination to community members.