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The purpose of this paper is to examine the use of e-resources by the Faculty of Law’s academic staff at the University of Namibia’s (UNAM’s) main campus. The study aimed to determine their level of awareness of electronic resources (e-resources) available to them, how useful and effective they found these e-resources, and the challenges they face in accessing them.

A convenient sampling technique was used to select a sample of 12 law academics from the population of 17. The study used both qualitative and quantitative research methods using questionnaires and a semi-structured interview guide.

Findings revealed that the majority of the law academics were aware of the e-resources subscribed by UNAM’s library, although some were not aware of the newly subscribed international law databases. The findings further revealed that the academics used e-resources for research, publications and teaching purposes, but irregular training, bandwidth problems and limited searching skills hindered their use of e-resources.

Findings could be used to inform future collection-development decisions, realignment of information-literacy training and promotion and marketing of library services.

This study has made a significant contribution in the understanding the use of electronic legal resources by law academics at UNAM. The findings and recommendations could also benefit similar academic institutions in developing countries like Namibia.

The purpose of this paper is to determine how the caregivers of orphans and vulnerable children in Namibia seek information to ensure their own and the children's survival.

The research was conducted through focus group discussions in the Ohangwena (rural) and Khomas regions (urban). Purposive sampling was used to identify key informants with the assistance of social workers and community leaders.

Disparities between rural and urban areas in terms of information access and use were found. For example, the rural dwellers expressed need for information on educational support, psychological and counselling services, childcare, and job opportunities. In urban areas, educational support and the establishment of small businesses featured as prominent needs. Radio, traditional leaders, regional councillors, friends and relatives were identified as channels of information in Ohangwena, while in Khomas, friends and relatives, community leaders, and regional councillors were most popular. Various challenges were identified such as, lack of transport and funding to access it, getting information too late to respond timeously, and a lack of accessible information channels.

Only two regions in Namibia were covered in this paper, i.e. Ohangwena (rural) and Khomas (urban). It was assumed that the information needs of caregivers in all the other rural or urban areas would be the same as those identified in the sampled areas.

Literature on the topic is scarce and, therefore, the paper gives important insight into how to assist caregivers with their information needs.