Exploring trends and patterns of theory use in library and information science research in Tanzania, 1990–2024

This study explored the use of theories in library and information science research in Tanzania from 1990 to 2024 using content analysis based on a typology of theoretical visibility. The findings reveal the predominantly minimal use of theories within the library and information science research domain in the country, with many articles lacking theoretical foundations, which could weaken academic rigor. Among those that do use theory, some are at lower levels of the theoretical visibility typology, indicating challenges in the consistent application of theories. While some theories, such as the technology acceptance model, the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology, and the diffusion of innovations, are predominantly used, there is inconsistency across library and information science subdisciplines, with information seeking being the subfield that utilizes theories most. Overall, while there is a positive trend towards the consistent use of theory in some articles, significant deficiencies remain, which need to be addressed to improve the academic integrity of library and information science research in Tanzania.