Web Content and Digitization Patterns of Tribal College Libraries Within the Great Plains Region

Abstract

The Web content and digitization patterns of twenty-three tribal college libraries from the Great Plains region were examined to determine what types of services, programs, digital resources, and social media were promoted on their websites.  The results of this study differed from a previous 1998 study by Kaya, which found that tribal libraries merely support the institutions and are ‘not recognized as an integral part of the activities of a tribal college, that is, as an equal partner in the academic endeavor’ (p. 245). Kaya noted that the success of students enrolled in tribal colleges was not contingent upon libraries and the resources they provide.  Findings of this study indicate that today, the library is an integral part of the tribal college and the surrounding communities they serve and they promote lifelong learning and literacy in the community.