The information needs of the Ghanaian immigrant

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to examine the information needs of Ghanaian immigrants who have settled in Maryland in the USA. Design/methodology/approach Using an ethnographic approach, immigrants from Ghana shared their information needs, challenges and sources they rely upon for information. In total, 50 Ghanaian immigrants participated in this study. Findings Findings indicate that like many immigrant populations, Ghanaians who have immigrated to the USA primarily rely on personal networks, mediated through social media, as their primary sources of information. Despite the availability of immigration resources in the library, Ghanaian immigrants may not view it as a useful resource. Social implications While this study examines a single immigrant population, its social implications are important to libraries who aim to serve immigrant populations in their community. Originality/value This study provides new information about African immigrant population, a population whose information needs have rarely been covered in the literature.