Volume 18, No.1, 2022
EDITORIAL COMMENTS
List of Contributors
Table of Content
STRATEGIES FOR IMPROVING LIBRARY EDUCATORS’ SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES FOR EFFECTIVE VIRTUAL TEACHING AND LEARNING
Abstract
This study examined the strategies for improving library educators’ skills and competencies for effective virtual teaching and learning. It discussed the concept of virtual teaching and learning. It revealed various strategies needed to improve library educators’ skills and competencies for effective virtual teaching such as: enhancement of communication skills, improvement of technological literacy, promotion of computer and internet skills, developing the teacher’s ability to use interactive online whiteboard, improvement of time management skills, etc. It also examined notable technologies and applications for virtual teaching such as google classroom, zoom, interactive whiteboard, etc. The key benefits of virtual teaching and learning as highlighted by the study includes: increased flexibility of time, increased flexibility of location, information sharing, online resources, among others. It highlighted the barriers to virtual teaching and learning such as: access to technology, access to the Internet, lack of motivation from students, technical issues, ability to use technology, etc. The study recommends that teachers should assess whether the students have reliable access to technology; set clear measurable goals so that students have something to focus on, government should also play their own role by providing each student with access to personal computers with internet connectivity, among others.
Keywords: strategies; library educators; skills; competencies; virtual teaching; virtual learning; online learning.
UZOMBA, CHRISTIAN EMEKA & AZUBUIKE, FRANKLYN CHIBUIKE
A SURVEY OF DISASTER MITIGATION STRATEGIES ADOPTED IN ACADEMIC LIBRARIES IN ENUGU STATE.
Abstract
The study was aimed to examine the disaster mitigation strategies adopted in academic libraries in Enugu State. A descriptive research design was adopted for the study. The population of the study comprised all fifteen (15) heads of the academic libraries in Enugu State. A questionnaire was used as instrument for data collection. Data collected were then analyzed using descriptive statistics of mean and standard deviation. Findings revealed that the provision of user education to the patrons and proper data documentation in the library are the disaster mitigation strategies mostly adopted in academic libraries in Enugu State. The study also discovered that power failure in the library leading to the distortion of disaster mitigation strategies among others is the major challenge facing the effective adoption of disaster mitigation strategies in academic libraries in Enugu State. Based on the findings, it was recommended that academic libraries should endeavor to digitize their collection, provide alternative power supply, and enhance their security systems. Adequate funds should be provided for the mitigation of disaster in academic libraries while maintenance culture should be highly encouraged.
Keywords: Disaster Management; Disaster Mitigation; Academic Libraries; Librarian; Enugu State; Nigeria
OKOYE, CHIDI NUEL-JEAN & PROF. A.U. ECHEDOM
USABILITY OF SMARTPHONE FOR REFERENCE SERVICE PROVISION IN LINE WITH THE REALITIES OF THE NEW NORMAL OF SOCIAL DISTANCING
Abstract
The paper discussed the usability of a smart phone for service provision in libraries and how it can enhance service delivery, in the era of pandemic, adjusting to the social distancing. Conceptual clarification of smartphones and Reference services were provided focusing on which smartphones are used in carryout Reference services provision, how smart phone users can access information from the circulation unit without having to visit the library, using Mobile Phone Current Awareness Library Services, Library Instructions and Virtual Tours. Some popular benefits of Mobile Devices in application of Reference Service was summarized as, it is user friendly; it is a personalized service, time saving, user participation, location awareness and limited Access. Challenges in the use of smartphones in providing reference services as thus: inadequate power supply, lack of knowledge for such services, bandwidth problem, privacy, and other factors. Conclusion was drawn as well as recommendations, it is hoped that from this study, librarians should implement smart phone usage in their respective institution in order to improve and enhance the library services so that it is available to users at any place and any time. More and more changes are expected within four to five years in the field of mobile technology and its application to libraries.
ASEN, ANITA T. & DOGARA, PETER
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS AND INFORMATION LITERACY VISION:A ROADMAP FOR EFFECTIVE TEACHER EDUCATION IN NIGERIA
Abstract
Information literacy is the single most pervasive educational issue for the 21st century. It is gradually becoming an indispensable factor in the educational development of the student. Despite the importance of information literacy, students enter and graduate from the educational institutions without basic information literacy. The reason for this is that teachers are not equipped with relevant training needed to teach information literacy to the pupils and students. One reason for this could be lack of information literacy vision which could among others, address the need for a comprehensive and result oriented information literacy at all levels of the educational system in Nigeria. This paper proposes such a vision and recommends that it should complement the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in view of the deficiencies of the SDGs especially with regards to information literacy and should be entrenched in the teacher preparation programmes as the needed catalyst for effective training of teachers and adequate delivery of instruction in Nigerian schools. The paper examines the concept, objectives and deficiencies of the SDGs, the methods and objectives of teacher education in Nigeria, need for information resources in teaching and rationale for training in information literacy teaching. It also addresses the need to complement the SDGs with information literacy vision and makes general recommendation for effective actualization of the information literacy vision. The present study is anchored on Information Process and utilization Model by Kulthau (1991). This is justified by the relevance of the theory in explaining the relationship between the library information resources available in teaching school libraries and the literacy level, behaviour and channels for the accessibility and utilization by the students for their academic pursuit. This is an opinion paper and adopted descriptive and systematic review of relevant literature to arrive at conclusions.
Dr. Chibuzo Livina Dim & Prof. Austin J. C. Mole
USE OF DATABASES BY STUDENTS IN UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES: ISSUES AND PROSPECTS
Abstract
This paper examines the utilization of databases by students in university libraries. The introduction of Internet and Databases to library and information services has greatly enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of information services. The paper also enumerates the types of databases available and used by students in the universities libraries which include: Health Internet work Access to Research Initiative (HINARI), Access to Global Online Research in Agriculture (AGORA), Research Paper in Economics (REPEE) and Library Index (LIBDEX) Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) among others. Issues associated with the use of databases by students are: slow internet connectivity, incessant power outrage, Lack of access to full text of citation/abstracts, inadequate infrastructure for accessing electronic resources among others. The paper also discussed the prospects in the use of these databases which includes among others training of students on online searching, functional ICT Policy, funding of the university library, regular power supply etc. Hence the study concluded, students just like any other category of library users need online databases to satisfy their information needs regarding their academic pursuit and access to a plethora of databases to address such academic needs.
Keywords: Use, Databases, Students, University Libraries
KABIR IBRAHIM & HAKEEMAT SALAHUDEEN BELLO
THE ROLE OF PUBLIC LIBRARIES AND LIBRARIANS IN COMBATING COVID-19 PANDEMIC IN NIGERIA
Abstract
This work is centred on the role of libraries and librarians in combating Covid-19 pandemic in Nigeria. The research method adopted for this work is contextual analysis which involved content review of literature in related area of study. The work explained in simple way the meaning of Covid-19 (Corona virus); it discussed the concept of public library and its functions, pointing out the roles of public libraries and librarians can play in combating the covid-19 pandemic, stating various ways librarians can be involved to support health workers and researchers in the fight against Covid-19. The study also discussed the preventive roles of public libraries and librarians in combating the pandemic. The study identifies the best practices libraries and librarians can engage in the fight against the pandemic. Conclusions were drawn based on findings of the review of related literature and inferences drawn.
Keywords: Public Libraries, Librarians, Covid-19 (Coronavirus), Pandemic.
LINUS, Nihungu Ahaz & OLULEYE, Helen Remilekun
THE ROLE OF TEACHER LIBRARIANS IN PROMOTING NATIONAL INTEGRATION AND DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA
Abstract
This paper stresses on the role of teacher/school librarians in promoting national integration and development which will enhance the societal, cultural and political inclusiveness of the young ones and facilitate their access to rightful information that would impart greatly on them and as well help in the promotion of national integration and development. National Integration and reasons why National Integration is a failure was discussed. The paper also discussed the concept of education in the primary and secondary level which is very fundamental for national building. Emphasis was also made on national integration, school libraries and teacherschool librarians. It is stressed also that school library(primary and secondary) as a social-based information institution is rightly positioned to function effectively outside the box to meet the social and political information needs of the public which are very important in promoting national integration and development and also equip them to become better citizens that are politically and socially oriented. The varied access to pertinent information resources at the right time, library services, collection development, provision of internet services, etc. are also discussed.
Keywords: Education, school library, Teacher librarian, Library services, National Integration, Nigeria.
KINGSLEY CHIMEZIE OKOROAFOR & JOHN MUYIWA ADENIYI
AWARENESS AND PERCEPTION OF RESOURCE DESCRIPTION AND ACCESS (RDA) AMONG CATALOGUERS IN ACADEMIC LIBRARIES IN NIGER STATE
Abstract
The study focused on the awareness and perception of RDA among cataloguers in academic libraries in Niger State. The study adopted descriptive survey research design. A total of 21 cataloguers from academic libraries in Niger State formed the population of the study. However, since the population was not large and manageable, the researchers used the whole population for the study. Questionnaire and observation were the instruments used for data collection. Data collected was analysed using descriptive statistics of frequency count, percentages and mean. The findings of the study revealed that most cataloguers in academic libraries in Niger State are aware of RDA as a new cataloguing rule. The medium of awareness of cataloguers about RDA is through their personal effort, Internet search and through friends that have attended conferences/seminars and workshops. The study also revealed that lack of funding, lack of technical knowhow and lack of policy statement on RDA were the major factors militating against the implementation of RDA in academic libraries in Niger State. The study recommended that Federal and state government should provide adequate funding, policy statement and create more awareness on RDA while library management should also provide adequate ICT facilities and staff training in order to address the issues of Internet connectivity and the technical knowhow of staff.
Keyword: Academic libraries, Anglo American cataloguing rules, Cataloguers, Resource Description and Access
ABU AHMED ADAMU, YAHAYA ABDULLAHI ISAH, ADEKUNLE AJAYI STEPHEN, MURJANATUL ABDULLHAMID & JIBRIL ATTAHIRU ALHASSAN (PhD)
USE OF ELECTRONIC INFORMATION RESOURCES FOR IMPROVING LIBRARY SERVICES IN UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES
Abstract
The study was aimed at finding out the use of electronic information resources for improving library services in university libraries. The use of Electronic Information Resource Services in any academic institution, most especially in human life cannot be overemphasized in this 21st century as they are technological advancement which has increased the role of information as a result of social progress and vigorous development in science and technology. However, the new and emerging technology changed the traditional process of improving learning, teaching, research and the way education is managed. The pace of change brought by the use of electronic information resources has significantly improved the way library clientele live, work and research in university community. The study seeks to determine what the use of these electronic information resources in University libraries will mean to the patron community. The study further established some uses, benefits and challenges of electronic information resources in the institution. It was recommended that the library managers should make available alternative power supply; this will enable the students to enjoy library services. The internet server should also be upgraded so as to enable easy accessibility, and there is need for periodic training for library users on how to access and be conversant with the available electronic information resources in the Library.
OZONWU, CHARLES UGOCHUKWU
ENHANCING THE USE OF ELECTRONIC DATABASES FOR IMPROVED RESEARCH PRODUCTIVITY OF ACADEMIC STAFF IN UNIVERSITIES
Abstract
This study investigated strategies for enhancing the use of electronic databases for improved research productivity of academic staff in universities. The study critically discussed the use of electronic databases by academic staff in the universities. The study examined the benefits that can be derived from using electronic databases by academic staff in universities. Some of these benefits include currency, accuracy, flexibility, speed, wide range and available 24/7. The study also identified the challenges that are encountered by academic staff from using electronic databases in universities. Some of these challenges are slow internet connectivity, poor power supply, lack of awareness of available electronic databases in the library among others. Based on these, it was recommended that: intensification of awareness campaigns on the use of available electronic databases, training and retraining of academic staff on the use of electronic databases for research, power supply and internet connectivity should be improved in university libraries, among others. The research concluded that due to the need for academic staff in universities to improve their research productivity, the universities through the libraries should subscribe to databases to enable them have access to current and accurate information resources for improved research productivity.
Key words: Electronic Databases, Research Productivity, Academic Staff
OZOWA Victor & OMALI Theresa O.
THE CONTRIBUTION OF LIBRARIES TOWARDS INFORMATION PROVISION AMIDST COVID-19 PANDEMIC IN NIGERIA
Abstract
This paper explores the contributions made by libraries in information resource provision during the COVID‐19 pandemic which began at the end of 2019. Measures advocated for by public health experts have had a global impact on all activities. Libraries have resorted to using technology and communication channels that uphold measures to ensure continuity of services. Libraries have also had to tailor their content and services to address the public need for information about the pandemic and resources to facilitate research. This research collected qualitative data using a content analysis tool. The data was obtained from online through social media response and via email of 12 libraries from the 6 geopolitical zones of Nigeria and analyzed to create themes from the content and determine how the libraries are contributing to the COVID-19 response by providing resources for information. The research findings illustrated that libraries have played a vital role in the provision of valid information to the public, researchers, and health officers, continuity of learning, raising public awareness, emphasizing the need to follow the public health measures, and overall provision of a platform to keep the public engaged even as they stay at home.
Keywords: libraries, information provision, Covid-19, Pandemic, Nigeria.
Salihu S. Musa, Yakubu Mohammed & Abubakar Hussaini Magaji
ENTRENCHING CORE VALUES IN LIBRARIANSHIP: ISSUES AND WAY FORWARD
Abstract
This study was designed to examine the importance of entrenching core values in librarianship in Nigeria. The study looks at the history of Librarianship, development of the Core Values: Controversy from the Onset. Core Values of Librarianship, Impact of perception of librarianship’s core values on professional practice of librarians. The study revealed the following core value of librarianship to include: protection of personal data; privacy and confidentiality; equal treatment of users; and intellectual freedom. Also, factors responsible for low practice of Information Ethics (IE) by librarians were established to be; lack of exposure to a course specifically on Information Ethics in most Nigerian library; low level of enforcement of ethical conducts by library management; concern for self-survival at the expense of rule of law; and low awareness and promotion of professional code of ethics by professional associations. Effects of perception on practice of Information Ethics by librarians were also revealed. One of the recommendations made was that all library governing councils in Nigeria and Africa should create a high level of awareness of Information Ethics and criminalize violation of professional ethics among librarians because such acts affect core values of librarianship as a profession.
Key Words: Core Values of Librarianship, Discipline, Information Ethics, Professional Ethics, Librarians
Adejimoh, Yunusa Anate & Prof. A. J. C. Mole
LIBRARIANS’ ROLES IN FACILITATING UTILISATION OF ONLINE REFERENCE RESOURCES FOR EFFECTIVE RESEARCH
Abstract
This paper investigated the role of librarians in facilitating utilization of online reference resources for effective research. The highlights of the paper include examination of online reference sources in which some online reference resources were discussed; utilization of online reference resources, along with some challenges that affect online reference sources utilization; librarian’s role in facilitating utilization of online reference resources for effective research were also pointed out. Strategies to be adopted to ameliorate the problems of online reference sources utilization which include consistently improving and finding better ways to provide customized information, guidance and instruction to the users they serve were also examined. It was recommended among other things that librarians should make self-study a part of their daily life so as to be able to take initiatives and devise ways of improving, deepening and refreshing their knowledge and skills of online reference sources, create more awareness and guide users on how best to make use of online reference sources for effective research.
Key Words: Librarian, Facilitator, Utilisation, Online reference resources, Effective research.