Analysis of Occupational Burnout and Employee Engagement at Selected University Libraries in Coast Region in Kenya

Abstract

Burnout is a result of the vulnerability of workers in developing nations to occupational stressors in their specific institutions. Emotional exhaustion is a common side effect of workplace stress that inhibits employees from fully enjoying their work. As a result, the quality of information services has decreased, particularly in libraries at higher education institutions in Kenya's coastal region. This study aimed to determine the relationship between occupational burnout and employee engagement at selected university libraries in the Coast Region in Kenya. The research utilized a survey research design. The researcher collected data from 54 library staff from 4 Universities. Semi-structured interviews and questionnaires were used to obtain both qualitative and quantitative data. Thematic analysis was utilized with qualitative data, whilst regression analysis and descriptive statistics were used with quantitative data. The study findings indicated that occupational burnout had a negative and significant effect on employee engagement. The study concluded that occupational burnout contributes significantly to negative employee engagement. Particular focus should be on emotional exhaustion, detachment, depersonalization, depression, anxiety, and dissociative tendencies. Helping employees deal with these occupational burnout aspects will enhance their engagement at work.