Perceptions of ethical practices in service delivery among information professionals in academic libraries in Tanzania

This study examined perceptions of ethical practices in service delivery among information professionals in academic libraries in Tanzania. Such perceptions shape how professionals interpret and apply moral standards in providing services. However, varying interpretations of ethical challenges have contributed to inconsistencies in service quality, reliance on outdated practices, and negative staff attitudes. The study specifically aimed to examine information professionals’ perceptions of ethical practices, the effectiveness of ethics in influencing service delivery, and the use of existing ethical guidelines in selected academic libraries. A cross-sectional research design was employed, combining qualitative and quantitative approaches, with data analyzed using SPSS. Findings revealed a generally positive perception of ethical practices, with over 60% of respondents acknowledging that ethical standards guide their service delivery. However, neutral responses indicated uncertainty and inconsistent application of ethics, often attributed to inadequate training and weak enforcement of guidelines. Therefore, the study concludes that although ethical practices are widely acknowledged, their application is not always systematic or consistent, largely due to limited training. It recommends regular ethics training, stronger policy enforcement, and continuous professional development to strengthen ethical service delivery while enhancing accessibility, reliability, and accountability.