Volume 18, No.2, 2022
List of Contributors
Table of Contents
Editorial Comments
TRAINING AND RE-TRAINING OF LIBRARY STAFF FOR STAFF PRODUCTIVITY IN TWO ACADEMIC LIBRARIES IN IMO STATE.
Abstract
This paper investigated the training and re-training of library staff for staff productivity in Imo State University and Federal Polytechnic Nekede, with the view to ascertaining how training and re-training influence staff efficiency, effectiveness and productivity using descriptive survey method. Data were collected from 74 respondents with the aid of structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics with mean score. The finding shows that workshops, seminars, local and international conferences, in-house training , periodic ICT training, regular orientation and formal education to acquire more degrees in library profession are all needed as methods of staff training. The finding also reveals that training and re-training play a vital role in staff productivity as it helps to improve customer service delivery, provide the vision of improving the skills needed to market the library effectively, and enhance maximum productivity of library staff. The finding also indicates that among the problems militating against training and re-training of library staff are inadequate funding, lack of management interest as well as poor library administration. Based on the findings, the researcher recommends among others; that there should be regular training and re-training program for all categories of staff.
Keywords: Training, Re-training, Library Staff, Staff Productivity, Academic Library
Ijeoma F. Mbagwu Ph.D and Veronica Madu-Malachy
ROLE OF LIBRARIES IN INFORMATION SERVICE PROVISION IN A PANDEMIC PERIOD
Abstract
This paper focuses on role of libraries in information services provision during pandemic period. The paper explores library and information services to be provided to library users during pandemic, the skills required by librarians in providing these services, digital platforms available for the provision of these services during pandemic and safety measures taken to control the spread of in libraries and information centres. The paper recommended among others that, libraries should re-assess every existing service and re-design it to facilitate its use by library users, and in view of the government pandemic protocols to deal with situation, the library management should endeavour to provide the needed ICT resources which the staff is to work with and make use of their newly acquired knowledge and skills, and libraries should provide new equipment and materials to enable it play better role in pandemic situations.
Keywords: Pandemic, Library and Information Services, Provision, Digital Platforms.
Iorfa, Terungwa and Ezenwuzor, Mnena Loveth
CONVENTIONAL AND ONLINE CATALOGUING PRACTICES BY LIBRARIANS IN THREE FEDERAL UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES IN NORTH CENTRAL AND SOUTH-EAST, NIGERIA
Abstract This study examined conventional and online cataloguing practices by librarians in three Federal University Libraries viz: University of Jos, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and Federal University of Technology, Owerri. Five (5) research questions were formulated based on the purpose of the study to guide the work. Questionnaire and oral interview were used to elicit information from the respondents that consisted of ninety three (93) university librarians who formed the total population of respondents. Major findings show that online cataloguing is a recent development and that conventional cataloguing is practiced more than online cataloguing in university libraries. The study shows that librarians are highly skilled in conventional cataloguing as a result of daily practical involvement in the art. Problems identified include poor network connectivity, lack of incentives, lack of skills in using tools, inadequate power supply, poor funding, lack of training in the use of ICT facilities, lack of competent chief cataloguer an{l negative management approach. The study concluded by recommending improved network connectivity, provision of relevant tools, positive management approach, need for competent chief cataloguers, improved work environment, provision of funds for cataloguing and provision of necessary incentives/motivation of staff by relevant agencies as ways of enhancing conventional and online cataloguing practices by librarians in the university libraries.
Charles Bala Ocheje
ASSESSMENT OF INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATION AT FEDERAL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY LOKOJA.
Abstract
The aim of the paper was to access interpersonal communication within the library. To achieve this, four objectives were chosen. The quantitative research method was adopted with a survey research design. The population of the study comprises all registered students of the Federal University, Lokoja library. The population was randomly surveyed with the use of an online questionnaire, with a total of 126 responses. The study found that service delivery in federal university library Lokoja seems to be leaning towards a single pattern of interpersonal communication (Face to face interaction) which could mean the possible dearth of service delivery in the near future. The study suggested maximum attention from the librarians to carry out effective library services; building and maintenance of a friendly library environment, and reengineering of library services
Keywords: Library, Service Delivery, Interpersonal Communication, Library Users, Librarians
Nwakaego Okube, Imoisili O. Odigie and Lois Yabanet
THE USE OF WHATSAPP FOR EFFECTIVE SERVICE DELIVERY IN THE 21ST CENTURY NIGERIA ACADEMIC LIBRARY
Abstract
Academic libraries are expected to collect, store, and provide access to different types of information for all categories of users in the parent institution. This paper highlights academic library of an institution as the central point of knowledge sharing and dissemination. It also examines the use of Whatsapp for effective library services in Nigeria. Today, for the library to achieve its duties and functions of sharing information timely and accurately, it is relying heavily on Whatsapp and other social networks to reach the target audience.
Rev. Fr. Bartholomew Okey Agu, C.S.Sp. Nnamdi Micheal Agubata Ugwu Richeal Njideka and Kanu, Chikaodili Loretta
MEETING THE INFORMATION NEEDS OF STUDENTS WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES IN OPEN AND DISTANCE LEARNING UNIVERSITIES IN NIGERIA.
Abstract
This paper discussed the importance of meeting the need of information services delivery for open and distance learning students with learning disabilities. Learning disabilities arise from neurological, neurobiological, developmental, and language-based learning disabilities that affect an individual’s ability to learn to read (accuracy and fluency) and the development of spelling skills, lack the ability to synchronize letters amongst others. It affects an individual’s ability to receive, store, process, retrieve or communicate information. The paper established the meaning of learning disabilities, the types, and symptoms. It also examined ways open and distance learning academic libraries can provide library services to these special needs people that could be used to get maximum satisfaction. The paper also recommended that the Nigerian Government both state and federal should ensure that all libraries in their schools from nursery to university levels are adequately equipped with the necessary resources and qualified staff that will meet the information needs of all library users irrespective of their learning disabilities. The paper concludes that librarians, Nigerian government (state and federal) must ensure that disabled students, especially students with learning disabilities are not left out in the information world.
Keywords: Learning Disabilities, Library Needs, Open and Distance Learning Academic Libraries.
Ailakhu, Ugonna Vivian
ASSESSMENT OF IMPLEMENTATION OF COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT POLICY ON LIBRARY COLLECTION IN TWO PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES IN KOGI STATE
Abstract
This study examined the assessment of implementation of collection development policies on library collection in two public universities in Kogi State. The study population was twenty four (24) librarians which were used for the study. Five research questions were designed for the study and data was collected through questionnaire and analyzed using the mean rating on four point rating scale. The findings of the study show that Federal University, Lokoja and Kogi State Uniiversity, Anyigba have functional written collection development policies. It was also found out that there are problems in implementing the policy which are; limited number of librarians, inadequate funds, lack of commitment to work, and negative staff attitudes. The study recommended that: the libraries should involve library committees, seek the opinions of students and lecturers especially in the selection of information materials, and the libraries should seek alternative funding.
Charles Bala Ocheje
OPTIMIZING LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SERVICES IN TECHNICAL EDUCATION AND INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA
Abstract
The paper explained the general overview of library, library and information services, technical education and industrial development. The work spelt out technical education as it cannot unilaterally realize its objective of industrial development without the supporting role of the library. The library is the pivotal hub of information services in any educational activities. Therefore technical education is a variety of education that is normally received in polytechnics, universities and institutes that do grant bachelors degree and diploma. The paper analyzed the various roles of library and information services in technical education and industrial development. The paper concluded that library plays a central role in educating students, faculty and other patrons of the library who are in technical education fields. And after being educated, the patrons turn to become assets for industrial development. Academic libraries in technical colleges and institutes should be well equipped with latest information resources in the field of technical education for patrons’ consumption. Seminars, conferences and symposia should be organized by the library management for patrons to sensitize them on the importance of visiting the library for knowledge update. Librarians should be made to go for further studies in order to impart advanced knowledge of professional display of services among others.
Key words: Optimizing, Library and information services, Technical education, Industrial development, Nigeria
Peter O. Olubiyo
FREELANCE LIBRARIANSHIP IN NIGERIA: AN IMPERATIVE IN A PERIOD OF ECONOMIC RECESSION
Abstract
The main objective of the study is to determine the possibility of a self-employed librarian (freelance librarian) surviving in the Nigerian economy bedeviled by recession. A survey method was adopted for the study, involving purposive sample size of 60 accessible librarians working in 17 libraries in Enugu East and West senatorial Zones of Enugu State. Five research objectives guided the study, covering the reasons for people becoming self-employed; the attributes of a freelance librarian; the business opportunities open to a freelance librarian; the appropriate academic qualifications and skills required to be a successful freelance librarian, and the sources of fund available to a freelance librarian. The findings from the study indicated that there are seven major reasons that propel individuals to establish businesses. There are six major attributes of a freelance librarian. Three business opportunities (e.g. information production, organisation, and retrieval) are open to a freelance librarian. To enable him succeed, he needs to obtain to degree or Higher National Diploma (HND) in librarianship, plus some knowledge of Accounting and Marketing and some skills in printing and use of the computer. The study also found out five major sources of fund available for freelance librarianship.
Key Words: Freelance, Librarianship, imperative, and recession
Ogbo, Ifeanyi Edwin (CLN) Okorie, Josephine N. Orji, Chinyere Chris (CLN)
Mentoring: A Collaborative Tool for Professional Development of Library and Information Science Professionals in Imo State.
Abstract
This paper examined mentoring as a collaborative tool for professional development of library and information professionals in Imo State. It was guided by four (4) objectives and four (4) research questions. It adopted the survey research design. The population of the study was the 132 library professionals registered with the Nigerian Library Association (NLA), Imo State Chapter. The instrument used to collect data for this study was researcher-made rating scale titled Mentoring: A Collaborative Tool for Professional Development of Library and Information Professionals (MCTPDLIP). Data collected were analysed using mean scores using 2.5 as the criterion mean. Findings showed that Library and Information Science professionals in Imo State have benefited through the various ways of mentoring; factors that encourage mentorship are: submission to be mentored, organized mentoring programmes (pairing of mentors/mentees), identified needs, reputation/fame building and a way of further learning; research productivity is the area of professional development that mentoring impacts most. The challenges of mentoring include: absence of mentoring orientation in librarianship, lack of openness/confidence, inadequate facilities, time factor, lack of policy on mentoring and lack of interest. Based on the findings of the study, the researcher recommends that: mentoring Library and Information Science professionals in Imo State should be sustained; Mentors should also be on the lookout for other evolving ways; newly employed and upcoming Library and Information Science professionals should always submit themselves to be mentored by their older colleagues; and awareness should be created on the relevance of mentoring.
Keywords: Mentoring, Library, Professional, Development,
Adaora Joy Udo-Anyanwu Ph.D
STUDENTS USE AND SATISFACTION WITH REPROGRAPHIC SERVICES AT DELTA STATE UNIVERSITY LIBRARY
Abstract
This study focused on the state of reprographic services/activities in federal, state and private university libraries in Delta state, Nigerian. The main objective is to appraise the state of reprographic services in university libraries in Nigeria. In order to achieve the main objective of the study, the researcher formulated some specific objectives. The study employed descriptive–survey research design in the course of the study. Questionnaires and observable checklists were the instruments used for data collection. The target population includes librarians and registered library users of university libraries in Nigeria. Findings from this study showed that; reprographic services are being carried out in most of the universities libraries; Reprographic service/activities are not effective; Library users do not make use of reprographic services frequently because. There are strategies that university libraries in Nigeria can used to improve the state of reprographic services with provision of alternative source of power and improved funding of reprographic as most appropriate. Based on the above, the study recommends that Nigerian universities libraries should continue to carry out reprographic services to continue to satisfy the needs of users. The researchers also recommend that Nigerian university libraries should enlarge the reprographic service they render for commercial purposes so that they can meet the need of more people in the community where the library is situated.
I. E. Achugbue Ph.D (CLN)
TRAINING PRACTICES AMONG PARA-PROFESSIONAL STAFF FOR EFFECTIVE SERVICE DELIVERY IN ACADEMIC LIBRARIES IN KOGI STATE
Abstract
The purpose of this research work was to determine the training practices among para-professional staff for effective service delivery in academic libraries in Kogi State, The descriptive survey design and total enumeration technique were used as design and sample technique respectively. The instrument for data collection was a questionnaire. The collected data were analysed using frequency counts and percentages and presented in tables for clarity. The population of the study comprised of all the para-professional staff of the Kogi State University Library, Anyigba and the Kogi State College of Education Library, Ankpa. The major findings showed that para-professional staff had a variety of training needs; that training opportunities available for them were very limited, and that staff based their utilization on availability rather than needs. Factors such as lack of fund and lack of technological literacy hindered effective service delivery. Strategies that can enhance effective service delivery were also indicated. It was recommended were given that the para-professionals take training seriously and avail themselves of every opportunity to train, the university and college management should include in their methods of training para-professionals newer and appropriate methods and approaches, organize a regular (annual) free and affordable training workshops for staff, and Government, non-governmental organizations, donor agencies and individuals should be encouraged to intervene and support the academic libraries with funds so as to accelerate the training of para-professionals for effective service delivery.
Charles Bala Ocheje
Administration of Academic Libraries in Nigeria in the 21st Century
<.strong> Abstract
The paper is about 21st century administration of academic library in Nigeria. Academic administrators are not declaring libraries as an anachronism. On the contrary, administrators see libraries as vibrant centers of learning. One intriguing attitude found among administrators was that they feel library directors should be more forceful advocates for their libraries, ready to provide evidence for funding that can be carried forward to the highest levels of the administration. The dynamics and structure of the academic library within the higher education community create complex environments for the library administrator attempting to navigate the myriad rules and regulations (state, federal, and institutional) that affect staff recruiting, hiring, processing, compensating, and related functions for library personnel. The paper recommends that libraries and librarians must step into new roles and take up different challenges, reimagining the ways they can be essential consultants in all the ways that students and faculty learn, discover, and share their work. The work concludes that libraries in colleges and universities should provide a challenging environment for the practice of human resource (HR) administration. Depending upon the complexities of the HR function in any academic library, there is need to designate an HR expert as a member of the library’s administrative team.
Keywords: Academic Libraries, Administration, 21st Century, Nigeria
Peter Olubunmi Olubiyo
EFFECT OF KNOWLEDGE HOARDING ON ORGANIZATIONAL ACHIEVEMENT IN NIMBE ADEDIPE LIBRARY, FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE, ABEOKUTA
Abstract
This paper focused on the effect of knowledge hoarding on organizational achievement in Nimbe Adedipe Library, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. The study adopted a survey method. The study population consisted of all 74 personnel in the Library. Questionnaire was sent to the staff through online platform from which 27 of them responded. Findings showed that knowledge hoarding practices exist among the personnel of the Library. Major factors that led to knowledge hoarding include: lack of motivation for knowledge sharing and industrial disharmony and conflicts. Also, major impacts of knowledge hoarding on the Library is that it can lead to lack of creativity among employees which can negatively affect achieving the goals of the Library; it can also bring down the organization completely. The study recommends among others, that the library personnel should be motivated through various forms of rewards to share knowledge that are instrumental to realizing the aims and objectives of the Library; Library management should provide enabling environment, policy and platform to facilitate knowledge sharing among the Library personnel.
Keywords: knowledge hoarding, knowledge sharing, organizational achievements, Nimbe Adedipe Library
Wasiu Olayide Lawal PhD and Blessing Babawale Amusan
UTILIZATION OF AUDIO VISUAL RESOURCES FOR SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE OF CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION AMONG RURAL FARMERS IN NIGERIA
Abstract
This paper is aimed at assessing the utilization of audio visual resources for adapting skills and knowledge of climate change and improving agricultural output among rural farmers in Nigeria. The paper adopted an exploratory design in which the author developed a conceptual overview of the terms: Audio visual resources, rural farmers and climate change. Related and relevant literature were reviewed on the role of audio visual in inculcating skills and knowledge to rural farmers for climate change adaptation and agricultural productivity. To achieve this, various databases were consulted including Google advanced search, journal databases, institutional/organizational repositories and textbooks. Finding show an availability of resources on climate change adaptation strategies; and audiovisual resources to play crucial role in imparting skills in individuals especially semi literates and non literates groups. However, utilization of audio visual resources by rural farmers for skills and knowledge of climate change adaptation should urgently be considered. Library professionals, government parastatals and other agents involved in information provision and dissemination are therefore called to reconsider this role and act fast for climate change adaptation and agricultural productivity in the rural communities.
Keywords: Audio Visual Resources; Climate Change Adaptation; Rural Farmers, Agricultural output, Nigeria
Dr. Abaobi D. Agbo, Dr. Grace U. Onyebuchi and Rev. Fr. Bartholomew O. Agu
ADOPTION AND USE OF MOBILE PHONE TECHNOLOGY FOR LEARNING BY LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE POSTGRADUATE STUDENTS IN TWO LIBRARY SCHOOLS IN NIGERIA
Abstract
This study investigated the adoption and use of mobile phone technology for learning by Library and Information Science Postgraduate Students in University of Ibadan (UI) and the Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED). A descriptive survey research design was adopted. Total enumeration of respondents was used to capture 222 respondents for the study. A validated, self-designed, and close-ended questionnaire was used to gather data from the respondents. Descriptive statistics (frequency count, percentage, mean, standard deviation) and Multiple Regression Analysis were used to analyse the data gathered for the study. Findings revealed a high level of mobile phone technology adoption among LIS postgraduate students. There is a high level of accessibility to mobile phone technology among LIS postgraduate students. It also reported high accessibility to mobile phone technology among LIS postgraduate students. The findings revealed further that most of the respondents agreed that they use mobile phone technology for their academic learning. The hypothesis revealed no significant difference between the adoption and use of mobile phone technology for learning by LIS postgraduate students. Based on the findings, it was recommended that mobile phone app usage should be encouraged in universities, and workshops should be organised to educate postgraduate students on the importance of using mobile phone technology in their knowledge quest.
Keywords: Mobile phone technology, ICTs, Mobile Learning, Postgraduate students, Universities.