Profile
Dr. Edward Asante – University Librarian
Edward Asante is a practicing professional librarian and a scholar in information science with over seventeen (17) years of rich experience and expertise in university library management. He holds a Diploma in Library Studies and Bachelor of Arts Degree (Information Studies and Political Science) both from the University of Ghana, Ghana; a Master of Philosophy in Information Studies also from the University of Ghana, Ghana; and a PhD in Information Science from the University of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa. Edward joined Koforidua Polytechnic now Koforidua Technical University as Library Assistant in 2007 and has risen through the ranks to the University Librarian. Dr. Asante has organized and facilitated many workshops and has chair a number of conferences. He is a member of many Committees and Boards in Koforidua Technical University and has contributed greatly to the activities and work of the University. Dr. Edward Asante is a member of the Ghana Association of Writers and the Ghana Library Association. Dr. Asante has a considerable number of publications in library management and science as well as total quality management of academic libraries.
Welcome to the Koforidua Technical University Library, the hub where excellence is not just a goal but a journey we celebrate and nurture. Dr. Edward Asante is honoured to serve as the University Librarian, leading a vibrant team dedicated to providing unwavering academic support for teaching, learning, and research at the Premier Technical University.
At Koforidua Technical University, we understand the pivotal role your success plays in our unique programs. Our commitment is reflected in the library’s mission to deliver high-quality, up-to-date, and relevant information resources and services tailored to meet the diverse needs of our students, staff, and faculty. Whether you’re delving into research or seeking resources to enrich your academic journey, our extensive collection in both print and electronic formats is designed to bolster your studies.
Our team, characterised by supportiveness, responsibility, and respect, is here to assist you in developing information literacy skills that transcend academic endeavours into lifelong learning. Your feedback is invaluable to us, as it fuels our continuous improvement efforts.
Since its inception in 1997, Koforidua Technical University has evolved into a beacon of excellence in teaching, applied research, and community development. The University Library, under my stewardship, assumes a pivotal role in realizing the institution’s mission and vision.
Aligned with the university’s vision to be a global reference point for science and technology education, I have outlined a comprehensive vision to guide the library’s role in contributing to the goals of KTU:
Collection Development:
- Update and review collection development policies to align with current and emerging programs, emphasizing access, user experience, and evolving information trends.
- Assess and enhance existing collections, particularly in emerging areas of inquiry.
- Establish regular communication channels with departments to address their evolving information needs.
- Promote the utilization of e-resources through consortia subscriptions or open-source accessibility.
Library Automation:
- Spearhead the automation of library operations to leverage new technologies and information management techniques.
- Seek financial support for acquiring necessary hardware, software infrastructure, and staff training to ensure the smooth functioning and maintenance of the automated system.
Promotion of Information Literacy Activities:
- Foster a student-centered, active learning environment, empowering students to take responsibility for their learning.
- Engage with learners directly, providing guidance on navigating the digital world, articulating information needs, using information ethically, and evaluating information for credibility.
- Collaborate with faculty to enhance students’ internet searching skills and techniques.
- Develop workshop schemes for faculty on effective systems navigation for academic research and publications.
Promotion of Academic Integrity in Scholarly Communication:
- Conduct an information audit to assess campus awareness of scholarly communication issues.
- Explore the establishment of an institutional repository.
- Organize workshops to educate the university community on academic integrity, predatory journals, open access, and copyright issues.
Marketing/Promotion/Liaison Role of the Library:
- Increase library presence through outreach events, and building relationships with university employees to market library services.
- Enhance the patron/user experience through improved customer service and knowledge of library staff.
- Assign library contacts to each university department, reinforcing liaison roles.
- Promote the library’s significance to student success through effective communication and marketing strategies.
- Create a master calendar for library events and increase involvement in major university events.
Staff Development & Continuous Professional Education:
- Prioritize the recruitment of core staff to enhance the human resource base of the library.
- Inspire and encourage existing staff to enroll in distance education courses to enhance their professional competencies.
As we collectively strive towards these goals, I am confident that the Koforidua Technical University Library will not only maintain but enhance its pivotal role in shaping the academic landscape. I invite you to explore the wealth of resources and services we offer, and I eagerly anticipate your active participation in our shared journey towards academic excellence and positive change.