Contributory Factors to Library Staff Turnover Pattern and Retention in Academic Libraries of Public and Private Universities in Ethiopia

Abstract

This paper presents a nationwide study on contributory factors that could influence library staff turnover pattern and retention in academic libraries of public and private universities in Ethiopia. The research design used for the study was a cross sectional survey method with documentary analysis; using clustered, purposive and proportional sampling with particular reference to quota sampling in the case of the sample sizes of both concerned 6 universities as well as 564 library staffs involved in the study from the universities/academic libraries in the country. For the purpose of data collection interview schedule, questionnaire, observation and document analysis used. The respondents agreed on the contributing factors to library staff turnover and retention in the academic libraries owned by governments and privately owned universities in Ethiopia. Based on the results, Lack of well-organized staff development program, Poor attitude of the society toward library staff, unsatisfactory salary, unfair or unequal treatment and others are the main contributors that force the library professionals to leave libraries.