Towards a Framework for Digital Collection Development in Academic Libraries: Evidence from the Cooperative University of Kenya

The rapid advancement of digital technologies has transformed academic libraries, creating both opportunities and challenges for digital collection development. In Kenya, many academic libraries lack adequate frameworks to guide the acquisition, management, and alignment of digital resources with user needs. This study assessed the current state of digital collection development at the Cooperative University of Kenya (CUK) Library and proposed a customized framework suited to its institutional context and user requirements. A convergent parallel mixed-methods design was employed, targeting 396 participants (students, library staff, and faculty heads), with a response rate of 64% (n=254). Data were collected using questionnaires and interview guides. Key findings showed a significant gap between high user demand for digital resources and the adequacy of existing collections. Budget constraints and inadequate ICT infrastructure emerged as the primary barriers. Qualitative findings revealed fragmented collections across multiple platforms, inconsistent user awareness leading to underutilization, and significant digital literacy gaps. The study proposes a comprehensive framework comprising five interdependent pillars: a formal digital collection policy, a sustainable funding model, unified technical infrastructure, strategic collection development, and human capacity development. These pillars operate within a continuous user engagement and feedback loop. The framework offers a practical, evidence-based model for academic libraries in Kenya and similar resource-constrained environments seeking to transition toward integrated, user-centered digital knowledge hubs.