Abstract:
Strategic plan provides different avenues for libraries to make options that give emphasis to their relevance in a competitive
environment and to create sustainable benefits. However, university libraries that have embraced strategic plans are
usually faced with the challenges of implementing the formulated strategies. The purpose of the study was to establish the
challenges experienced in the implementation of strategic plans in selected Kenyan public university libraries with a view
to propose interventions that can be used to improve the implementation the plans in these libraries. The objectives of the
study were to identify the challenges affecting implementation of strategic plans in Kenyan public university libraries,
propose appropriate interventions to improve implementation of strategic plans in Kenyan public university libraries. The
study adopted triangulation type of mixed methods research approach employing descriptive survey within a pragmatic
philosophical paradigm. Quantitative data was collected by use of questionnaires while qualitative data was by use of
interview schedule. The population of study was 277 respondents from purposively selected five public universities.
Yamane’s formula was used to get a sample of 134 respondents. Stratified sampling was used to sample library staff while
purposive sampling was used to select Deputy Vice Chancellors, and Finance Officers. Quantitative data was analysed
statistically and findings presented in tables, charts and graphs while qualitative data was grouped into themes and
analysed using content analysis. The findings reveal that change of priorities, Leadership turnover, inadequate finances,
lack of staff commitment strongly impacted on the implementation of strategic plans. The study recommends that
management to consider allocating adequate budget and also recruitment of sufficient and qualified staff, stakeholder
involvement, conducting regular training of staff as sensitization of staff, regular monitoring and evaluation among others
