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Extent of Librarians’ Motivation in Public Libraries in South-East Nigeria
This study investigated the extent of librarians’ motivation in public libraries in South-east geopolitical zone of Nigeria, comprising Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo States. Five research questions guided the investigation. The descriptive survey design was adopted in the study. Structured questionnaire, interviews, and record examination and analysis were used to collect the data for the study. Three senior lecturers from the Department of Library and Information Science, University of Nigeria, at the request of the researcher subjected the instruments used for the study to face validation and confirmed their suitability for the study after making suggestions and modifications. The questionnaires were administered to respondents and collected on the same day. The data collected were collated, analyzed using descriptive statistics involving mean frequencies, standard deviation and percentages. The findings of the study showed that librarians’ motivation and productivity in the public libraries in the south-east geo-political zone of Nigeria was low. Furthermore, it was discovered that there is a chain reciprocal relationship between librarians’ motivation, productivity and conditions of service, funding, work environment, and training. The study also found out that motivational elements such as adequate funding, prompt payment of salaries and regular promotions were lacking in these libraries. Training opportunities where they existed were not exploited. Based on the findings, the researcher recommended, among others, that the governments of the states where these libraries are located should increase the yearly budgetary allocations of the libraries by at least 200%. Training opportunities should be funded by the governments as sponsoring agents and such opportunities should be well exploited by the librarians themselves. Salaries and other fringe benefits should be regularly and promptly paid. The limitations of the study, suggestions for further research and conclusion are also given. This study investigated the extent of librarians’ motivation in public libraries in South-east geopolitical zone of Nigeria, comprising Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo States. Five research questions guided the investigation. The descriptive survey design was adopted in the study. Structured questionnaire, interviews, and record examination and analysis were used to collect the data for the study. Three senior lecturers from the Department of Library and Information Science, University of Nigeria, at the request of the researcher subjected the instruments used for the study to face validation and confirmed their suitability for the study after making suggestions and modifications. The questionnaires were administered to respondents and collected on the same day. The data collected were collated, analyzed using descriptive statistics involving mean frequencies, standard deviation and percentages. The findings of the study showed that librarians’ motivation and productivity in the public libraries in the south-east geo-political zone of Nigeria was low. Furthermore, it was discovered that there is a chain reciprocal relationship between librarians’ motivation, productivity and conditions of service, funding, work environment, and training. The study also found out that motivational elements such as adequate funding, prompt payment of salaries and regular promotions were lacking in these libraries. Training opportunities where they existed were not exploited. Based on the findings, the researcher recommended, among others, that the governments of the states where these libraries are located should increase the yearly budgetary allocations of the libraries by at least 200%. Training opportunities should be funded by the governments as sponsoring agents and such opportunities should be well exploited by the librarians themselves. Salaries and other fringe benefits should be regularly and promptly paid. The limitations of the study, suggestions for further research and conclusion are also given.
ICT COMPETENCIES OF LIBRARY STAFF AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ABUJA, FCT AND UNIVERSITY OF JOS, PLATAEU STATE.
This study investigated the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) competencies of library staff in the University of Abuja, FCT and University of Jos, Plateau State. The objective of the study was to find how competent library staff are in using ICT facilities to do their job. Five research questions were formulated to guide the study on Areas of work staff use ICT, levels of competence, methods of acquiring competencies hindrances to competency acquisition and strategies to improve the situation. Data relevant to the study was collected using questionnaire design sampling technique. A total of 136 copies of questionnaire were distributed out of which were rightly completed and returned. Data were analyzed using percentages and mean scores. Findings revealed that many library staff in university libraries perform Microsoft Word based tasks like typing and printing of documents, can provide online searches using internet but cannot perform effective professional library related duties using ICT. Staff need ICT competencies in the areas that can assist them handle professional related duties, like internet skills, mastery of library softwares and technical skills. Library staff acquired ICT training mainly through personal practice, on the job training, seminars, conferences and workshops, but preferred training through library schools. The major problems that hindered ICT competency acquisition among library staff are lack of funding, higher authority not willing to release their staff to go for further training, lack of opportunities, lack of ICT training facilities and inadequate curriculum content for ICT in the library schools. Strategies to improve the ICT competencies of library staff are by provision of more ICT facilities in library schools, development of personal interest by staff to acquire ICT competencies, sponsorship and study grants, study leave to be granted to staff to go for Competency acquisition trainings, also the authority should be willing to release staff for studies and recruit more staff to reduce work load. Suggestions on areas for further studies on ICT competencies of library staff were also made.This study investigated the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) competencies of library staff in the University of Abuja, FCT and University of Jos, Plateau State. The objective of the study was to find how competent library staff are in using ICT facilities to do their job. Five research questions were formulated to guide the study on Areas of work staff use ICT, levels of competence, methods of acquiring competencies hindrances to competency acquisition and strategies to improve the situation. Data relevant to the study was collected using questionnaire design sampling technique. A total of 136 copies of questionnaire were distributed out of which were rightly completed and returned. Data were analyzed using percentages and mean scores. Findings revealed that many library staff in university libraries perform Microsoft Word based tasks like typing and printing of documents, can provide online searches using internet but cannot perform effective professional library related duties using ICT. Staff need ICT competencies in the areas that can assist them handle professional related duties, like internet skills, mastery of library softwares and technical skills. Library staff acquired ICT training mainly through personal practice, on the job training, seminars, conferences and workshops, but preferred training through library schools. The major problems that hindered ICT competency acquisition among library staff are lack of funding, higher authority not willing to release their staff to go for further training, lack of opportunities, lack of ICT training facilities and inadequate curriculum content for ICT in the library schools. Strategies to improve the ICT competencies of library staff are by provision of more ICT facilities in library schools, development of personal interest by staff to acquire ICT competencies, sponsorship and study grants, study leave to be granted to staff to go for Competency acquisition trainings, also the authority should be willing to release staff for studies and recruit more staff to reduce work load. Suggestions on areas for further studies on ICT competencies of library staff were also made.
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS USE OF INTERNET RESOURCES FOR RESEARCH PROJECT IN UNIVERSITIES IN NORTH – CENTRAL NIGERIA
This study was carried out to examine undergraduate students’ use of Internet resources for research project in Universities in North-Central Nigeria. The study was guided by six research questions. The researcher employed a survey research design. The population of the study comprised of six thousand one hundred and fifteen (6,115) final year undergraduate students in Benue State University, Makurdi; Kogi State University, Anyigba; University of Agriculture, Makurdi; Nassarawa State University, Keffi and University of Mkar, Mkar. A sample of 1,223 final year undergraduate students was used for the study using a systematic random sampling technique. Questionnaire titled “Undergraduate Students’ Use of Internet Resources for Research Project in Universities in North Central-Nigeria” was used as instrument for data collection. Mean and standard deviation were used to analyze the data collected, while t-test was used in testing the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The result of the study showed that the Internet resources in university libraries and information centresare available but not adequate and not highly used for research project. It was also found that the majority of the respondents students do not possess basic Internet skills for use of Internet resources. It was recommended that libraries should organize Internet user education programs, more educational databases should be subscribed to, the university administrations should inject more funds to university libraries and information centers for the provision of more Internet resources such as electronic journals, electronic books, and online data analysis software.This study was carried out to examine undergraduate students’ use of Internet resources for research project in Universities in North-Central Nigeria. The study was guided by six research questions. The researcher employed a survey research design. The population of the study comprised of six thousand one hundred and fifteen (6,115) final year undergraduate students in Benue State University, Makurdi; Kogi State University, Anyigba; University of Agriculture, Makurdi; Nassarawa State University, Keffi and University of Mkar, Mkar. A sample of 1,223 final year undergraduate students was used for the study using a systematic random sampling technique. Questionnaire titled “Undergraduate Students’ Use of Internet Resources for Research Project in Universities in North Central-Nigeria” was used as instrument for data collection. Mean and standard deviation were used to analyze the data collected, while t-test was used in testing the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The result of the study showed that the Internet resources in university libraries and information centresare available but not adequate and not highly used for research project. It was also found that the majority of the respondents students do not possess basic Internet skills for use of Internet resources. It was recommended that libraries should organize Internet user education programs, more educational databases should be subscribed to, the university administrations should inject more funds to university libraries and information centers for the provision of more Internet resources such as electronic journals, electronic books, and online data analysis software.
JOB SATISFACTION AND JOB PERFORMANCE OF LIBRARY PERSONNEL OF NATIONAL LIBRARY OF NIGERIA
This study is on the job satisfaction and job performance of library personnel of National Library of Nigeria. The library personnel who are librarians and paraprofessional from the professional departments of the library was used. The study sought to find out their level of job satisfaction, level of job performance, relationship between their job satisfaction and job performance, barriers to their job satisfaction and job performance and the strategies to improving their job satisfaction and job performance. A descriptive research design was used for the study with a population of 413 library personnel from five professional departments of the National library. No sampling was done in the corporate headquarters. A multi-stage sampling technique was used for the state branches which altogether; a population of 240 (58%) library personnel from the professional departments of the library was used. The instrument for data collection was questionnaire. In analyzing the data, mean, correlation coefficient and frequency tables were used. The findings from the study revealed that library personnel are generally satisfied with their job but not satisfied with their salary and also their overall job performance is average. The relationship between their job satisfaction and job performance shows that there is a strong positive relationship between salary, responsibility and relationship with job performance, a week negative relationship between work-itself and job performance and a negative relationship between growth/advancement and recognition and job performance. Findings identified lack of/inadequate professional training, poor policy, unsafe working environment and poor salary package as barriers to their job satisfaction and performance and effective communication, adequate professional development, good working conditions good salary package good policy as strategies to improving their job satisfaction and job performance. This study is on the job satisfaction and job performance of library personnel of National Library of Nigeria. The library personnel who are librarians and paraprofessional from the professional departments of the library was used. The study sought to find out their level of job satisfaction, level of job performance, relationship between their job satisfaction and job performance, barriers to their job satisfaction and job performance and the strategies to improving their job satisfaction and job performance. A descriptive research design was used for the study with a population of 413 library personnel from five professional departments of the National library. No sampling was done in the corporate headquarters. A multi-stage sampling technique was used for the state branches which altogether; a population of 240 (58%) library personnel from the professional departments of the library was used. The instrument for data collection was questionnaire. In analyzing the data, mean, correlation coefficient and frequency tables were used. The findings from the study revealed that library personnel are generally satisfied with their job but not satisfied with their salary and also their overall job performance is average. The relationship between their job satisfaction and job performance shows that there is a strong positive relationship between salary, responsibility and relationship with job performance, a week negative relationship between work-itself and job performance and a negative relationship between growth/advancement and recognition and job performance. Findings identified lack of/inadequate professional training, poor policy, unsafe working environment and poor salary package as barriers to their job satisfaction and performance and effective communication, adequate professional development, good working conditions good salary package good policy as strategies to improving their job satisfaction and job performance.
DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION OF CIRCULATION SOFTWARE PACKAGE FOR LIBRARIES IN FEDERAL UNIVERSITIES OF NORTH CENTRAL, NIGERIA
The aim of this study was to investigate the development and validation of circulation software package for university libraries in Federal Universities of North Central Zone, Nigeria.. Specifically, five purposes and three research questions guided the study. Related literature was reviewed under conceptual framework, theoretical framework and related empirical studies. The study adopted descriptive survey at first after which it will adopt Research and Development (R&D). The study was carried out in North Central Zone, it has population of 155 comprising librarians and other library personnel who have worked in circulation department from seven federal university libraries in the zone. The study used purposive sampling technique to sample 108 librarians and other library personnel. From the above population one hundred and eight (108) questionnaires were distributed filled and returned; representing a return rate of 70%. The data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics of frequency tables and mean scores. And the decision rule for research questions one through three was based on whether the mean score value was lower than or equal to and above the criterion mean value of 2.50 for either rejection or acceptance. The findings of the study shows: that federal university libraries under study to high extent employ manual procedures in carrying out basic circulation functions such as registering users at the circulation Desk, charging out items to users at circulation Desk, Discharging and renewing items to users at the circulation desk. The study revealed that majority of the respondents strongly agreed and agreed that Fast report generation is not possible, Tracing a book on the library shelf is difficult, Information about issue/return of the books are not properly maintained, No central database can be created as information is not available in database, Difficulty in determining if a patron has overdue, the manual charging was characterized by long queues and unnecessary delays, manual card systems basically provide just one access point, the due date is on a card that has been lost, It is possible to have two (or more!) cards for each item, Waste the users time, The process is cumbersome and Inefficiency in service delivery. Finally, the finding also shows that majority of the respondents have little or no skill in Software design, Software installation/operations, Web design, Digitization and imaging technology, Online cataloguing(MARC) and OCR Devices classification (NLM). It also revealed that respondents have low skill in automated circulation system and System analysis and design. However, the table indicated that most of the respondents have a very high skill in MSOffice, Database searching technique and Transformation of data. Recommendations were made as follows; Libraries should encourage the production of local library application software by patronizing them and even be part of the software development, there is need for constant training and re-training of staff in the proper handling of Information and Communication Technology equipment and process so as not to run in to trouble, staff such as programmers, analysts, and operators should be employed to handle the computer system and train the librarians on basic trouble shooting, ICT facilities and other equipment should be made available for staff at the circulation desk, white the outdated ones should be replaced and each university library should have a stand-by generator and UPS to guard against power failure and its damage of the automation equipment. The project development of library circulation Software package that was developed based on the findings of initial descriptive survey carried out to manage the daily book transaction and manage the member, books record more efficiently to improve management of the book property in the library. This library circulation Software package is mainly use by librarian, library admin and users. Besides that, library circulation Software package also allows user to search for availability of books by Title, Author and ISBN via World Wide Web. The methodology adopted to develop this system is waterfall model. Thus, the work chapters included system planning, requirement analysis, system design, programming, system and testing, of the project. The software is available on-line via http// www.libcsp.com
The aim of this study was to investigate the development and validation of circulation software package for university libraries in Federal Universities of North Central Zone, Nigeria.. Specifically, five purposes and three research questions guided the study. Related literature was reviewed under conceptual framework, theoretical framework and related empirical studies. The study adopted descriptive survey at first after which it will adopt Research and Development (R&D). The study was carried out in North Central Zone, it has population of 155 comprising librarians and other library personnel who have worked in circulation department from seven federal university libraries in the zone. The study used purposive sampling technique to sample 108 librarians and other library personnel. From the above population one hundred and eight (108) questionnaires were distributed filled and returned; representing a return rate of 70%. The data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics of frequency tables and mean scores. And the decision rule for research questions one through three was based on whether the mean score value was lower than or equal to and above the criterion mean value of 2.50 for either rejection or acceptance. The findings of the study shows: that federal university libraries under study to high extent employ manual procedures in carrying out basic circulation functions such as registering users at the circulation Desk, charging out items to users at circulation Desk, Discharging and renewing items to users at the circulation desk. The study revealed that majority of the respondents strongly agreed and agreed that Fast report generation is not possible, Tracing a book on the library shelf is difficult, Information about issue/return of the books are not properly maintained, No central database can be created as information is not available in database, Difficulty in determining if a patron has overdue, the manual charging was characterized by long queues and unnecessary delays, manual card systems basically provide just one access point, the due date is on a card that has been lost, It is possible to have two (or more!) cards for each item, Waste the users time, The process is cumbersome and Inefficiency in service delivery. Finally, the finding also shows that majority of the respondents have little or no skill in Software design, Software installation/operations, Web design, Digitization and imaging technology, Online cataloguing(MARC) and OCR Devices classification (NLM). It also revealed that respondents have low skill in automated circulation system and System analysis and design. However, the table indicated that most of the respondents have a very high skill in MSOffice, Database searching technique and Transformation of data. Recommendations were made as follows; Libraries should encourage the production of local library application software by patronizing them and even be part of the software development, there is need for constant training and re-training of staff in the proper handling of Information and Communication Technology equipment and process so as not to run in to trouble, staff such as programmers, analysts, and operators should be employed to handle the computer system and train the librarians on basic trouble shooting, ICT facilities and other equipment should be made available for staff at the circulation desk, white the outdated ones should be replaced and each university library should have a stand-by generator and UPS to guard against power failure and its damage of the automation equipment. The project development of library circulation Software package that was developed based on the findings of initial descriptive survey carried out to manage the daily book transaction and manage the member, books record more efficiently to improve management of the book property in the library. This library circulation Software package is mainly use by librarian, library admin and users. Besides that, library circulation Software package also allows user to search for availability of books by Title, Author and ISBN via World Wide Web. The methodology adopted to develop this system is waterfall model. Thus, the work chapters included system planning, requirement analysis, system design, programming, system and testing, of the project. The software is available on-line via http// www.libcsp.com
MANAGEMENT OF GREY LITERATURE IN ACADEMIC LIBRARIES IN NIGER STATE
This research investigated management and use of grey literature in academic libraries in Niger State. The purpose of it is to identify types of grey literature, examine methods of acquisition, processing, preservation and utilisation. In addition, to ascertain management challenges and strategies for improvement. Research questions were formulated based on seven points of the purposes. A descriptive survey research design was used for the study. One hundred and two (102) librarians (professional and paraprofessional) from Federal University of Technology, Minna, IBB University, Lapai, Federal College of Education, Kontagora, Niger State College of Education, Minna, Federal Polytechnic, Bida, and Niger State Polytechnic, Zungeru constituted the population. The entire population was used. There was no sampling because the sample size was manageable. The instruments for data collection were structured questionnaire, interview schedule and observation checklist. Documentary evidences in the area of grey literature formed the basis for construction of these instruments. The instruments were face validated by three senior researchers in the field of Library and Information Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. The research instruments were administered directly by the researcher. In analyzing the data collected, frequency table and mean score were used for the questionnaire and checklist, while the interview was presented in prose narrative form substantiating information obtained from questionnaire. The findings revealed that appreciable size and variety of grey literature resources are available in most libraries but proper management is where problems lie. The major methods of acquisition are donation/gift and standing order deposit for staff. Classification is the main method through which grey literature is processed, while cataloguing, indexing and abstracting are neglected in most cases. It was also found out that the major methods employed by most of the libraries for preserving grey literature are the use of shelves with labels and vertical files collection with content descriptions. The popular access points are print lists and shelf guides. Some of the challenges encountered with the management and accessing of grey literature resources in the area include lack of national bibliography for grey literature, as well as unwillingness of originating bodies to release copies of documents which topped the list. Strategies itemized for improving management of grey literature resources include; provision of national bibliography, policy statements and adequate fund for acquisition and digitization of the resources. Based on these, the study recommends for the provision of a national bibliography for grey literature, good policy statements for acquisition and use of grey literature, digitization of the resources, as well as government/institutions/libraries voting adequate fund for acquisition of grey literature, especially electronic resources.This research investigated management and use of grey literature in academic libraries in Niger State. The purpose of it is to identify types of grey literature, examine methods of acquisition, processing, preservation and utilisation. In addition, to ascertain management challenges and strategies for improvement. Research questions were formulated based on seven points of the purposes. A descriptive survey research design was used for the study. One hundred and two (102) librarians (professional and paraprofessional) from Federal University of Technology, Minna, IBB University, Lapai, Federal College of Education, Kontagora, Niger State College of Education, Minna, Federal Polytechnic, Bida, and Niger State Polytechnic, Zungeru constituted the population. The entire population was used. There was no sampling because the sample size was manageable. The instruments for data collection were structured questionnaire, interview schedule and observation checklist. Documentary evidences in the area of grey literature formed the basis for construction of these instruments. The instruments were face validated by three senior researchers in the field of Library and Information Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. The research instruments were administered directly by the researcher. In analyzing the data collected, frequency table and mean score were used for the questionnaire and checklist, while the interview was presented in prose narrative form substantiating information obtained from questionnaire. The findings revealed that appreciable size and variety of grey literature resources are available in most libraries but proper management is where problems lie. The major methods of acquisition are donation/gift and standing order deposit for staff. Classification is the main method through which grey literature is processed, while cataloguing, indexing and abstracting are neglected in most cases. It was also found out that the major methods employed by most of the libraries for preserving grey literature are the use of shelves with labels and vertical files collection with content descriptions. The popular access points are print lists and shelf guides. Some of the challenges encountered with the management and accessing of grey literature resources in the area include lack of national bibliography for grey literature, as well as unwillingness of originating bodies to release copies of documents which topped the list. Strategies itemized for improving management of grey literature resources include; provision of national bibliography, policy statements and adequate fund for acquisition and digitization of the resources. Based on these, the study recommends for the provision of a national bibliography for grey literature, good policy statements for acquisition and use of grey literature, digitization of the resources, as well as government/institutions/libraries voting adequate fund for acquisition of grey literature, especially electronic resources.
Report on the Archdiocesan Development Seminar. Social Development in Africa
Report on the Archdiocesan Development Seminar. Social Development in Africa
Report on Association of Episcopal Conferences of Anglophone West Africa
Report on Association of Episcopal Conferences of Anglophone West Africa
UTILIZATION OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT) IN USER SERVICES OF FEDERAL UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES IN SOUTH EAST NIGERIA
This study investigated the utilization of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in user services of federal university libraries in South East Nigeria. It examined the availability, extent, users’ perception, problems and strategies of addressing the challenges of ICT utilization. Five purposes of the study and five research questions were raised to guide the study. A descriptive survey was used for the study, with population of 64 library staff and 12,405 users. All 64 library staff and 400 users constitute the sample, however, 447 (96.3%) constitutes the final sample used for the study. The instrument for data collection was observation checklist and questionnaire. In analysing the data, descriptive statistic such as mean scores and tables was used. The findings revealed that a number of ICT facilities are at different levels of availability in the federal university libraries under study. It also shows that ICT tools such as e-mails, subject gateways, e-journals, e-books are extensively used to provide reference services, in terms of bibliographic tools; the CD-ROMs and online databases are widely used. It further shows that users’ perception is that ICT utilization is beneficial, as it aids in enhancing research. Various problems ranging from inadequate budget for ICT facilities, inadequate infrastructure, lack of up-graded ICT skill level of users, inadequate qualified staff in libraries, software and hardware problems are shown to hinder ICT utilization. The study made the following recommendations: adequate infrastructure, funding, training of library staff on ICT use for research, provision of adequate electricity with back-up power plant, institutional subscription, as solutions in addressing the problems of ICT utilization in federal university libraries in South East Nigeria.
This study investigated the utilization of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in user services of federal university libraries in South East Nigeria. It examined the availability, extent, users’ perception, problems and strategies of addressing the challenges of ICT utilization. Five purposes of the study and five research questions were raised to guide the study. A descriptive survey was used for the study, with population of 64 library staff and 12,405 users. All 64 library staff and 400 users constitute the sample, however, 447 (96.3%) constitutes the final sample used for the study. The instrument for data collection was observation checklist and questionnaire. In analysing the data, descriptive statistic such as mean scores and tables was used. The findings revealed that a number of ICT facilities are at different levels of availability in the federal university libraries under study. It also shows that ICT tools such as e-mails, subject gateways, e-journals, e-books are extensively used to provide reference services, in terms of bibliographic tools; the CD-ROMs and online databases are widely used. It further shows that users’ perception is that ICT utilization is beneficial, as it aids in enhancing research. Various problems ranging from inadequate budget for ICT facilities, inadequate infrastructure, lack of up-graded ICT skill level of users, inadequate qualified staff in libraries, software and hardware problems are shown to hinder ICT utilization. The study made the following recommendations: adequate infrastructure, funding, training of library staff on ICT use for research, provision of adequate electricity with back-up power plant, institutional subscription, as solutions in addressing the problems of ICT utilization in federal university libraries in South East Nigeria.
UTILIZATION OF LIBRARY-BASED WEBSITES FOR RESEARCH BY LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE POSTGRADUATE STUDENTS IN SELECTED FEDERAL UNIVERSITIES IN SOUTH-EAST NIGERIA
This study examined the utilization of library-based websites for research by library and information science postgraduate students in selected federal Universities in south east Nigeria. Six research questions were formulated to guide the study. A descriptive survey design was used and the entire Population of 372 were used for the study. Therefore, there was no sampling. The instruments for data collection were questionnaires.The data obtained were organized and analysed using simple descriptive statistic which includes; Simple percentages, mean scores and frequency tables. The result showed that the level of awareness of some Library-based websites byPostgraduate students in conduct of research were low. Also, the result showed that students make use of social network sites more as against academic purpose. The problems associated with utilization of library-based websites are computer incompetency among some of the postgraduate students in using web facilities, lack of steady power supply, lack of appropriate funding, lack of provision of IT facilities. The strategies for enhancing utilization of library-based websites includes provision of adequate power supply, provision of adequate funding, arranging for seminar and workshop to teach students on how to browse and search for information on the web. The researcher recommended that there should be a lay down policy that will mandate departments to organize workshops and seminar where students will learn the act of websites usage. Also, the researcher recommended that websites utilization should be added to the school curriculum to mandate and equip researchers and students on the need to be aware of these websites.
This study examined the utilization of library-based websites for research by library and information science postgraduate students in selected federal Universities in south east Nigeria. Six research questions were formulated to guide the study. A descriptive survey design was used and the entire Population of 372 were used for the study. Therefore, there was no sampling. The instruments for data collection were questionnaires.The data obtained were organized and analysed using simple descriptive statistic which includes; Simple percentages, mean scores and frequency tables. The result showed that the level of awareness of some Library-based websites byPostgraduate students in conduct of research were low. Also, the result showed that students make use of social network sites more as against academic purpose. The problems associated with utilization of library-based websites are computer incompetency among some of the postgraduate students in using web facilities, lack of steady power supply, lack of appropriate funding, lack of provision of IT facilities. The strategies for enhancing utilization of library-based websites includes provision of adequate power supply, provision of adequate funding, arranging for seminar and workshop to teach students on how to browse and search for information on the web. The researcher recommended that there should be a lay down policy that will mandate departments to organize workshops and seminar where students will learn the act of websites usage. Also, the researcher recommended that websites utilization should be added to the school curriculum to mandate and equip researchers and students on the need to be aware of these websites.
INVOLVEMENT OF GOVERNMENT AND NON-GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF PRIMARY SCHOOL LIBRARIES IN SOUTH EAST OF NIGERIA 1980-2010
The study was carried out to trace and document the history of agency involvement in the development of primary school libraries in Southeast Nigeria over a thirty year period. It looked at the contribution of agencies during the period of 1980 to 2010 and, it looked at the successes and the factors that limited the agencies efforts. In carrying out this research work, five research questions guided the study, which adopted historical design. The accessible population of this study comprises fifteen agencies in the five states of Southeast involved in the development of Primary school libraries during the period. Purposive sampling technique was used in getting twenty respondents who made up the sample size for this study. The instruments used for collecting data were documents and structured interview. The examination of archival documents was apt as it has to do with events that occurred in the past, while key players who worked or are still working in the agencies identified were interviewed. The results of the study showed that professional associations were very active in the 1980s to early 1990s. The activities that were in place then were awareness campaigns, training of teacher librarians, placing of jingles, lobbying of government and collaboration with other agencies. This helped in getting to the grassroots of library development but their activities dwindled from about 1990. It was found that government agencies took the lead in library development from the late 1990s but were not as effective as the professional associations and other informal agencies. Again, the study revealed a regression in school library development in later period when the professional association’s activities dwindled. In view of these, it was recommended that the spirit of professionalism be reawakened by revitalizing professional associations as the study has revealed that it worked in the past and will still work again if tried. It was recommended that public libraries should be revitalized so that the supportive role they played in the past is used again. Other recommendations were made and finally, areas for further research were suggested by the researcher.
The study was carried out to trace and document the history of agency involvement in the development of primary school libraries in Southeast Nigeria over a thirty year period. It looked at the contribution of agencies during the period of 1980 to 2010 and, it looked at the successes and the factors that limited the agencies efforts. In carrying out this research work, five research questions guided the study, which adopted historical design. The accessible population of this study comprises fifteen agencies in the five states of Southeast involved in the development of Primary school libraries during the period. Purposive sampling technique was used in getting twenty respondents who made up the sample size for this study. The instruments used for collecting data were documents and structured interview. The examination of archival documents was apt as it has to do with events that occurred in the past, while key players who worked or are still working in the agencies identified were interviewed. The results of the study showed that professional associations were very active in the 1980s to early 1990s. The activities that were in place then were awareness campaigns, training of teacher librarians, placing of jingles, lobbying of government and collaboration with other agencies. This helped in getting to the grassroots of library development but their activities dwindled from about 1990. It was found that government agencies took the lead in library development from the late 1990s but were not as effective as the professional associations and other informal agencies. Again, the study revealed a regression in school library development in later period when the professional association’s activities dwindled. In view of these, it was recommended that the spirit of professionalism be reawakened by revitalizing professional associations as the study has revealed that it worked in the past and will still work again if tried. It was recommended that public libraries should be revitalized so that the supportive role they played in the past is used again. Other recommendations were made and finally, areas for further research were suggested by the researcher.
BOOK EXHIBITION AS A MARKETING STRATEGY FOR LIBRARY SERVICES IN ACADEMIC LIBRARIES IN NORTH – EAST NIGERIA
This research work investigated book exhibition as a marketing strategy for improving library services in three academic libraries. A descriptive research design was used for the study. The area of the study was North–East Nigeria. The total population for this study was 5312 persons (68 librarians and 5244 library-users) in Modibbo Adamawa University of Technology, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University and Federal University Wukari. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to draw a sample size of 367 respondents which constituted the sample. Six research questions guided the study. Three instruments were used for data collection, namely: a structured questionnaire, an interview, and an observation checklist. The instruments were validated by research experts in the field of Library and Information Science. A total number of 367 copies of the questionnaire were distributed to the sampled respondents. A total of 314 copies of each of the questionnaire and observation checklist were correctly filled and returned. This number represented 97% of the number given out to the respondents used for this study. In analyzing the data gathered using the instruments; frequency table and mean score were used for the questionnaire and observation checklist, while the data from the interview were presented in prose narrative form. The findings revealed that book exhibition on “architecture and arts” and “promotion of library to users” are occasions in which books are being exhibited. The component of book exhibition which had the highest mean score was “to establish assessment and success criteria” while “celebrating and reflecting upon achievement” was not to a great extent a component of book exhibition. It was also found out that the benefits of book exhibition include: creating and enhancing the image of the library and enabling library research by the users. “Limited number of collections”, “inadequate display space for book exhibition”, “lack of appropriate infrastructure” and “limited opportunities for training of library attendants”, are some of the problems that hinder effective book exhibition. The study recommended that the managers of Nigerian academic libraries should operate separate budgets to make book exhibition a regular feature in their libraries. Libraries should also create awareness for their collections by linking book exhibition to their collections and services.This research work investigated book exhibition as a marketing strategy for improving library services in three academic libraries. A descriptive research design was used for the study. The area of the study was North–East Nigeria. The total population for this study was 5312 persons (68 librarians and 5244 library-users) in Modibbo Adamawa University of Technology, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University and Federal University Wukari. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to draw a sample size of 367 respondents which constituted the sample. Six research questions guided the study. Three instruments were used for data collection, namely: a structured questionnaire, an interview, and an observation checklist. The instruments were validated by research experts in the field of Library and Information Science. A total number of 367 copies of the questionnaire were distributed to the sampled respondents. A total of 314 copies of each of the questionnaire and observation checklist were correctly filled and returned. This number represented 97% of the number given out to the respondents used for this study. In analyzing the data gathered using the instruments; frequency table and mean score were used for the questionnaire and observation checklist, while the data from the interview were presented in prose narrative form. The findings revealed that book exhibition on “architecture and arts” and “promotion of library to users” are occasions in which books are being exhibited. The component of book exhibition which had the highest mean score was “to establish assessment and success criteria” while “celebrating and reflecting upon achievement” was not to a great extent a component of book exhibition. It was also found out that the benefits of book exhibition include: creating and enhancing the image of the library and enabling library research by the users. “Limited number of collections”, “inadequate display space for book exhibition”, “lack of appropriate infrastructure” and “limited opportunities for training of library attendants”, are some of the problems that hinder effective book exhibition. The study recommended that the managers of Nigerian academic libraries should operate separate budgets to make book exhibition a regular feature in their libraries. Libraries should also create awareness for their collections by linking book exhibition to their collections and services.
STAFF NEEDS AND TRAINING PROGRAMMES OF THE NATIONAL LIBRARY OF NIGERIA IN THE INFORMATION AGE
This study investigated the staff needs and training programmes of the National Library of Nigeria in the information age. Six research questions were formulated to guide the study. The questions sought answers to amongst other things, the categories of staff needed in the National Library of Nigeria in the information age, Qualifications of staff needed, Relevant skills/competences of staff needed, Training methods/programmes available to staff, Problems associated with staff training, and Strategies for enhancing staff needs and training programmes.
A descriptive survey design was used for the study. A sample of 193 comprising the professional and para- professional librarians in the National Library of Nigeria in the North Central Zone was used. A Questionnaire of 84 items was used for data collection. A total of 136 copies of the questionnaire were returned and analyzed using frequency tables, percentages and mean (x) values. In the final analysis, it was revealed from the study that the National Library of Nigeria needs various categories of staff however, the most needed are the professionals and indexers while the most needed skills/competences are information and communication technology (ICT), including a strong service orientation with dedication to quality. In the area of training methods/programmes, Sandwich and Part-time training programmes are reportedly available to majority of the staff. Inadequate training in ICT for both professional and para- professional librarians is among the major problems besetting staff training. Sponsorship for conferences, workshops and continuing education programmes leading to award of certificate amongst other strategies, was recommended towards enhancing the staff needs and training programmes of the National Library of Nigeria in the information age.
This study investigated the staff needs and training programmes of the National Library of Nigeria in the information age. Six research questions were formulated to guide the study. The questions sought answers to amongst other things, the categories of staff needed in the National Library of Nigeria in the information age, Qualifications of staff needed, Relevant skills/competences of staff needed, Training methods/programmes available to staff, Problems associated with staff training, and Strategies for enhancing staff needs and training programmes.
A descriptive survey design was used for the study. A sample of 193 comprising the professional and para- professional librarians in the National Library of Nigeria in the North Central Zone was used. A Questionnaire of 84 items was used for data collection. A total of 136 copies of the questionnaire were returned and analyzed using frequency tables, percentages and mean (x) values. In the final analysis, it was revealed from the study that the National Library of Nigeria needs various categories of staff however, the most needed are the professionals and indexers while the most needed skills/competences are information and communication technology (ICT), including a strong service orientation with dedication to quality. In the area of training methods/programmes, Sandwich and Part-time training programmes are reportedly available to majority of the staff. Inadequate training in ICT for both professional and para- professional librarians is among the major problems besetting staff training. Sponsorship for conferences, workshops and continuing education programmes leading to award of certificate amongst other strategies, was recommended towards enhancing the staff needs and training programmes of the National Library of Nigeria in the information age.
AN ASSESSMENT OF LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SERVICES TO USERS OF ACADEMIC LIBRARIES IN NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA
This study is an assessment of library and information services to users of academic libraries in Nasarawa state using descriptive survey method. The study was conducted to assess the library and information services rendered in academic libraries in Nasarawa state. Six research questions guided the study. A sample size of 430 registered users of the population of 4300 was used using proportional sampling method from the six academic libraries in six higher institutions in the state. Twelve librarians from the six librarians were randomly selected to seek their opinion on the assessment by the users. Questionnaire and observation checklist were used to collect data. Data collected were analyzed using mean x and percentages. The result of the study showed that most of the library and information services that help the users to obtain information are rendered by academic libraries in Nasarawa state. Majority of the users employ resources employed by the libraries but use textbooks mostly; not all the services rendered in the library are satisfied with loan, bindery, interlibrary loan, 3udio/visual, translation and interpreting services are poorly utilized, utilization of services is challenged by a number of problems such as incompetence’s of library s:aff1 insufficient time [opening and closing], poor library education, lack of computers and accessories, computers are not connected, lack of searching skills and that these problems can be overcome by provision of adequate materials, training of library staff, provision of ICT resources, increasing of opening hours, provision of internet services and orientation. Finally, the study made the following recommendations that all known library services should be offered audio/visual resources should be richly provided utilization and satisfaction should be the desire of the librarians, and enough seating space should be provided, delinquent readers and wrong shelving should be tackled.This study is an assessment of library and information services to users of academic libraries in Nasarawa state using descriptive survey method. The study was conducted to assess the library and information services rendered in academic libraries in Nasarawa state. Six research questions guided the study. A sample size of 430 registered users of the population of 4300 was used using proportional sampling method from the six academic libraries in six higher institutions in the state. Twelve librarians from the six librarians were randomly selected to seek their opinion on the assessment by the users. Questionnaire and observation checklist were used to collect data. Data collected were analyzed using mean x and percentages. The result of the study showed that most of the library and information services that help the users to obtain information are rendered by academic libraries in Nasarawa state. Majority of the users employ resources employed by the libraries but use textbooks mostly; not all the services rendered in the library are satisfied with loan, bindery, interlibrary loan, 3udio/visual, translation and interpreting services are poorly utilized, utilization of services is challenged by a number of problems such as incompetence’s of library s:aff1 insufficient time [opening and closing], poor library education, lack of computers and accessories, computers are not connected, lack of searching skills and that these problems can be overcome by provision of adequate materials, training of library staff, provision of ICT resources, increasing of opening hours, provision of internet services and orientation. Finally, the study made the following recommendations that all known library services should be offered audio/visual resources should be richly provided utilization and satisfaction should be the desire of the librarians, and enough seating space should be provided, delinquent readers and wrong shelving should be tackled.
DISASTER MANAGEMENT IN ACADEMIC LIBRARIES IN PLATEAU STATE
This study was designed to determine disaster management in academic libraries in Plateau State. The study was guided by five research questions covering the types of disasters that have affected these libraries and the extent of damages. It also looked at the disaster management plan, whether there is any in place and who the members of the disaster management committee are. The research design was descriptive survey with a population of 60 librarians and 84 library officers from 21 academic libraries in Plateau State. No sampling was done because the population was small and manageable. The instruments for data collection were questionnaire and interview schedule. The questionnaire was designed in line with four point rating scale. One hundred and forty four (144) copies of the questionnaire were administered of which one hundred and twenty eight (128) were correctly filled and returned showing 88.9% response rate. Data was analysed using mean and standard deviation. The findings of the study revealed that the major disasters that have affected academic libraries in Plateau State were pests, fire, roof leakage and data alteration (these disasters can cause great damages to the library collections, building and personnel). The study also showed that not all libraries were prepared for disaster management (with only a few accepted to have a written disaster management plan). Furthermore, the findings showed that the libraries have the following as some of the problems militating against disaster management: lack of fire alarms, lack of training of staff on disaster management, lack of budgetary allocation for disaster management and lack of fire fighters. The following recommendations were made to remedy the problems: cordial relationship between library management and library staff, having a disaster management plan in place, regular training of staff, seminars and workshops on disaster management, proper electrical installations in the library, proper foundation of library building and approval by town planning authority. They added that regular updating of disaster plan; insuring the library personnel, building and collections and budgetary allocation for disaster management would also serve as remedies. This study was designed to determine disaster management in academic libraries in Plateau State. The study was guided by five research questions covering the types of disasters that have affected these libraries and the extent of damages. It also looked at the disaster management plan, whether there is any in place and who the members of the disaster management committee are. The research design was descriptive survey with a population of 60 librarians and 84 library officers from 21 academic libraries in Plateau State. No sampling was done because the population was small and manageable. The instruments for data collection were questionnaire and interview schedule. The questionnaire was designed in line with four point rating scale. One hundred and forty four (144) copies of the questionnaire were administered of which one hundred and twenty eight (128) were correctly filled and returned showing 88.9% response rate. Data was analysed using mean and standard deviation. The findings of the study revealed that the major disasters that have affected academic libraries in Plateau State were pests, fire, roof leakage and data alteration (these disasters can cause great damages to the library collections, building and personnel). The study also showed that not all libraries were prepared for disaster management (with only a few accepted to have a written disaster management plan). Furthermore, the findings showed that the libraries have the following as some of the problems militating against disaster management: lack of fire alarms, lack of training of staff on disaster management, lack of budgetary allocation for disaster management and lack of fire fighters. The following recommendations were made to remedy the problems: cordial relationship between library management and library staff, having a disaster management plan in place, regular training of staff, seminars and workshops on disaster management, proper electrical installations in the library, proper foundation of library building and approval by town planning authority. They added that regular updating of disaster plan; insuring the library personnel, building and collections and budgetary allocation for disaster management would also serve as remedies.
