INS2701
Assignment 1
Semester 2
Due 15 August 2025
, INS2701
Assignment 1
Semester 2 2025
Due 15 August 2025
CLARITY CRAFTED
Question 1
Question 1.1: How Free and Open-Source Software (FOSS) Can Bridge the Digital
Divide in Library and Information Services [15 Marks]
The digital divide, particularly in developing countries, stems from unequal access to
technology, information, and digital tools. In the context of libraries, this gap is worsened
by limited financial resources and dependence on commercial systems. Free and Open-
Source Software (FOSS) offers a practical and transformative response to this
challenge by enabling libraries to provide equitable access to digital services.
Cost-Effectiveness
FOSS eliminates costly licensing fees, making it financially viable for libraries with
constrained budgets. Unlike proprietary platforms that require annual payments and
vendor contracts, FOSS can be downloaded, installed, and maintained without recurring
costs. This allows libraries to allocate resources to more urgent needs such as acquiring
materials or upgrading infrastructure. For example, Koha, an open-source Integrated
Library System (ILS), enables small libraries to automate functions like circulation and
cataloguing without incurring software licensing costs. A rural library in Kenya could use
Koha to create a searchable online public access catalog, improving access even for
patrons without home internet or personal computers.
Assignment 1
Semester 2
Due 15 August 2025
, INS2701
Assignment 1
Semester 2 2025
Due 15 August 2025
CLARITY CRAFTED
Question 1
Question 1.1: How Free and Open-Source Software (FOSS) Can Bridge the Digital
Divide in Library and Information Services [15 Marks]
The digital divide, particularly in developing countries, stems from unequal access to
technology, information, and digital tools. In the context of libraries, this gap is worsened
by limited financial resources and dependence on commercial systems. Free and Open-
Source Software (FOSS) offers a practical and transformative response to this
challenge by enabling libraries to provide equitable access to digital services.
Cost-Effectiveness
FOSS eliminates costly licensing fees, making it financially viable for libraries with
constrained budgets. Unlike proprietary platforms that require annual payments and
vendor contracts, FOSS can be downloaded, installed, and maintained without recurring
costs. This allows libraries to allocate resources to more urgent needs such as acquiring
materials or upgrading infrastructure. For example, Koha, an open-source Integrated
Library System (ILS), enables small libraries to automate functions like circulation and
cataloguing without incurring software licensing costs. A rural library in Kenya could use
Koha to create a searchable online public access catalog, improving access even for
patrons without home internet or personal computers.
