Volume 19, No.2, 2023
LIST OF CONTRIBUTORS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
EDITORIAL COMMENTS
USE OF ELECTRONIC INFORMATION RESOURCES FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF 0PEN AND DISTANCE LEARNING PROGRAMMES IN NIGERIAN UNIVERSITIES
Abstract
The study investigated the availability of electronic information resources for sustainable development of Open and Distance Learning (ODL) in Nigeria universities. The nature of learning has changed due to the advent of ICTs and the emergence of new technologies. The need to sustain the development of ODL calls for adequate provision of electronic resources to match the growing information needs of students. The study used a survey research design. A sample of 400 students was drawn from twelve conventional universities offering distance learning programmes in Nigeria. Purposive random sampling technique was used to select the participants. Data was collected using a self-structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics of frequency counts, percentages, mean and standard deviation. Findings showed that e-books, online databases, e-journals, e-references were available, adequate and accessible in the libraries under study. The e-resources brought about improved learning outcomes and up-to-date information. To sustain the provision of e-resources for Open and Distance Learning, infrastructural development, policy-making and implementation are germane. Financial constraint pose a serious challenge to e-resources provision and utilization. Therefore, recommendations were made for improved library budget and infrastructural development to sustain access to e-resources by the students.
Keywords: Electronic information resources, Library, Nigerian universities, Open and Distance Learning (ODL), Sustainability.
Adedokun, Titilayo Oludayo PhD Ojo; Joshua Onaade PhD Odunlade; Racheal Opeyemi PhD
INSTITUTIONAL REPOSITORY FOR EFFECTIVE RESEARCH OUTPUT AMONG UNIVERSITIES IN NIGERIA
ABSTRACT
The study addressed the effectiveness of institutional repository for research output in universities in Nigeria. The objectives of the study were to understand the benefits of institutional repository to research, to understand how institutional repositories has enabled research in Nigeria and also to understand the state of research output in Nigeria. Findings from the study established that limited infrastructure and resources, digitization, limited awareness and understanding, limited expertise, intellectual property right and copyright issues and lack of institutional support were the challenges that hindered institutional repository effectiveness for research in Nigeria. The study revealed the importance of institutional repository as an effective tool for research circulation and also how it increases the value for research. The study further recommended that a concerted effort from researchers, institutions and policy makers in Nigeria to prioritize the use of IRs as a tool for enabling research, this will involve investments in technological infrastructure and capacity building and also raise awareness and understanding of the benefits of open access and institutional repositories. The study also recommended institutional polices and incentives that should be put in place to encourage participation and ensure that researchers receive credit for their contributions. Partnerships and collaborations between institutions, organizations and funding agencies can help address resources and expertise gap and provide support for the full development of institutional repository in Nigeria
.
KEYWORDS
Institutional repository, Research Output, Universities, Nigeria
ORAEKWE, CHIDIMMA GRACE.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA: THE ROLE OF LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE DURING AND POST COVID- 19 PANDEMIC
Abstract
This study investigates Entrepreneurship Development in Nigeria: the role of library and information science during Covid and post- Covid -19 Era. The research employed a semi-structured questionnaire to conduct a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) with 18 entrepreneurs in the LIS industry from the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria. The study found that entrepreneurs with LIS education and experience provide a wide range of services such as market research, information management systems development, training, capacity building, and consulting. The findings suggest that LIS education and experience are essential in supporting entrepreneurs during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The study also identifies several challenges encountered by LIS entrepreneurs in Nigeria, including limited access to technology and resources, funding, cultural barriers, lack of awareness and perception, and the absence of government policies and programs. To encourage LIS entrepreneurship, policymakers in Nigeria must raise awareness, enhance access to technology and resources, provide funding and financial support, promote collaboration and networking, and develop government policies and programs. This studys findings provide a basis for policymakers and stakeholders to develop strategies to support LIS entrepreneurship and improve the overall entrepreneurship ecosystem in Nigeria.
Keywords: Entrepreneurship, Library and Information Science, Education, Experience, Nigeria
IBRAHIM MOHAMMED GADAFFI AILAKHU, UGONNA V. and IFEGWU, JOHN IFEGWU
PROVISION OF INCLUSIVE LIBRARY SERVICES FOR EFFECTIVE LEARNING AMONG PEOPLE LIVING WITH DISABILITIES IN ACADEMIC LIBRARIES: ISSUES AND WAY FORWARD
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine how inclusive academic library services are to the people living with disabilities. It also discussed the resources needed to render inclusive services which include provision of Braille books, talking books, large print materials and screen magnifier. Provision of these materials would support inclusive circulation service; inclusive reference services as well as inclusive internet services respectively. Academic libraries are facing challenges in rendering inclusive services as a result of library architectural design, absences of relevant reading materials, lack of experts to communicate with some of these physically challenged people, absence of relevant electronic devices which hinder provision of effective services to support their learning. The paper equally made some recommendations on how to counter such challenges by development of policies that will guide the provision of library services to people with disabilities, allocation of enough money in budget to procure relevant equipments and resources to 3support people with disabilities.
Keywords: Inclusive Library Services, Academic libraries, Users with Disabilities
AMINU MUHAMMAD And PERPETUA OGOCHUKWU NWACHUKWU
KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT IN THE NIGERIAN LEGISLATURE: CHALLENGES AND WAY FORWARD
Abstract
The emergence of knowledge-based economies placed great significance on effective knowledge management system in every organization and the legislature is not an exception in this regard. Knowledge management is now a critical component for organizations in the 21st century in their effort to ensure sustainable organizational development. Organizations need to have strategies to create, adapt, and manage knowledge so as to enhance their sustainability. Through knowledge management, an organization seeks to acquire or create potentially useful knowledge and make it available to its members so that it can be used at the right time and in the right place to have a positive impact on the organizations activities. The legislature is a body fueled by knowledge, both tacit and explicit knowledge. Therefore to help them harness the benefits of the knowledge contained therein, there is a need for effective knowledge management in the legislature. This paper discusses the concept of knowledge and knowledge management processes. It also dwelled on knowledge management in the Nigerian Legislature, challenges of knowledge management in the Nigerian Legislature, as well as the way forward.
Keywords: Knowledge; Knowledge Management; Knowledge Management Processes; Nigerian Legislature
CHINAKO ASOGWA
INFORMATION SERVICE PROVISION FOR AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTIVITY AND POVERTY ALLEVIATION IN NIGERIA
Abstract
Poverty, a global issue that is complex and multi-dimensional is one of the most dangerous social menaces ravaging mankind. The quality of life one lives is greatly tied to whether he is poor or not, as such, government at all levels in Nigeria have on various occasions attempted to roll out programmes that can alleviate poverty. Despite these attempts, the scourge seems unbolting most especially among farmers as a result of information gaps on the best agricultural practices that can guarantee their increased productivity and reduced poverty level. Some strategies have been adopted in parts of Africa to help in addressing the information needs of farmers. This study emphasized the role of ICT-an information dissemination channel- in addressing these information needs of farmers. The study pointed out that LINKS - a livestock information network and knowledge system – was established as a sub-project within the global livestock collaborative research support program for farmers in Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania. In Nigeria, cassava growers receive market information through a new initiative called the Integrated Cassava Project. It was recommended among others that federal government should fulfill her responsibility by guaranteeing the security of all parts of the country so that the barrier to the dissemination of novel agricultural technologies to farmers in terms the services of extension workers will be removed.
Keywords: Information Service Provision, Agricultural Productivity, ICT and Poverty Alleviation.
AUDU, PATRICIA OOMO and SANI, MICHAEL
FORM AND USAGE OF INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDE IN TEACHING AND LEARNING IN SECOUNDRAY SCHOOLS
Abstract
The advent of colonial masters truly affected our perception about teaching and learning which were solely centered on speaking and writing only. This western value left our indigenous knowledge irrelevant. With the negative trend in level of education in our Nigeria and Africa in general, there is a serious need to shift to indigenous knowledge to see secondary schools function properly. This paper discussed knowledge, indigenous knowledge and secondary school. It also looked at forms of indigenous knowledge to be incorporated in teaching and learning, distinctive characteristics of indigenous knowledge from western knowledge, the differences in mode of transmitting indigenous knowledge and western knowledge. It equally pointed out importance of indigenous knowledge and uses of indigenous knowledge. The paper highlighted challenges hindering indigenous knowledge in secondary school with possible findings and conclusion on how they can be incorporated in secondary school teaching and learning.
NNEJI, IFEINWA LOVETH And OHANADO, CLARA CHIBUZOR
SUSTAINING OPEN ACCESS SCHOLARLY COMMUNICATION FOR EFFECTIVE RESEARCH AND SCHOLARSHIP: ROLES OF ACADEMIC LIBRARIES AND LIBRARIANS
Abstract
The paper examined the concept of scholarly communication, the need for open access in research and scholarship and its types as products of industrialization were discussed. The paper further examined the benefits of open access scholarly communication as how it grants immediate accessibility, wide coverage, eradication fee-based barrier among others, the Nigerian experience of open access. For sustainability of scholarly communication and open access to be realistic, authors, funders/employers, publishers, librarians and libraries and end users must work as a team. The paper concluded by highlighting the roles academic libraries and librarians has to play in sustaining scholarly communication and open access in Nigeria.
Keywords: Scholarly Communication, Open Access in Nigeria, Academic librarians, Academic Libraries
Gbuushi, Ahemba Joseph and Ianna, Susan Mbalamen
SCHOOL LIBRARIES AND TOTAL DEVELOPMENT OF THE NIGERIAN CHILD: A STUDY OF SCHOOLS IN IBADAN TOWNSHIP
Abstract
The study examined the school libraries in public secondary schools in Ibadan Township to assess their adequacy in preparing the students for total development. A particular focus of the study is on the availability of trained school librarians in the school libraries considering that having a school librarian in charge of a school library is one of the prerequisites of a functional school library. Moreover, the perceived non-availability of qualified school librarians and libraries in many secondary schools in Nigeria have unpleasant implication on students’ development. The quantitative approach using an adapted evaluation form was employed in the study to assess school libraries and library personnel in all the public secondary schools in the five local government areas of Ibadan Township. A total of 165 secondary schools were examined. The study employed the survey method and total enumeration techniques in selecting all the public secondary schools in Ibadan Township. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics of percentages and frequency counts. The findings revealed the unavailability of school librarians that should be saddled with the responsibility of designing and executing effective school library programmes to help students in achieving total development. It is recommended that trained school librarians are employed by the state government to manage all the school libraries. It is also recommended that spaces used for school libraries are increased to accommodate students who would like to use them.
Keywords: School, Libraries/Librarians, Development, Nigerian Child
IBITOLA OLUWATOYIN ADIGUN and KOLAWOLE AKINJIDE ARAMIDE
ASSERTIVENESS AND JOB SATISFACTION AMONG LIBRARIANS IN THE UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES IN NIGER DELTA, NIGERIA.
Abstract
The study examined assertiveness and job satisfaction among librarians in the university libraries in Niger Delta, Nigeria. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. One research objective was formulated for this study. A questionnaire was constructed after consultation with related literature to ensure that relevant items were included. A self-constructed questionnaire entitled “Assertiveness and Job Satisfaction Scale (AJSS)’’ was designed by the researchers. The population of the study comprises all librarians in the university libraries in Niger Delta. A total of two hundred librarians responded from different university libraries in the Niger Delta. This represents 83% of university librarians in the Niger Delta. The responses were collated, analyzed using simple percentages and mean. The findings revealed that librarians are assertive when a user borrowed a book and is overdue, they are not scared to mention it, have the right to say I don’t know, are willing to speak up in a discussion and are openly critical of other ideas, opinions and behaviour.
Keywords: Assertiveness, job satisfaction, librarians, university, libraries, Niger Delta, Nigeria.
DR. GLORIA O.OYOVWE-TINUOYE and SAMBO, ATANDASALIU Ph.D
STRATEGIES FOR PROMOTING THE USE OF OPAC FOR INFORMATION RETRIEVAL IN NIGERIAN LIBRARIES
Abstract
This study investigated strategies for promoting the use of OPAC in information retrieval in Nigerian libraries. On a specific note, the study examined the concept of OPAC, benefits of use of OPAC; challenges associated with the use of OPAC and strategies for enhancing the use of OPAC in Nigerian libraries. Some of the challenges affecting utilization of OPAC include complexity of options, lack of skills and poor attitude towards the use of OPAC. Some of the strategies proffered includes training of users, provision of orientation programmes, creation of awareness and others. The study concluded by recommending that libraries should organize training for the users on the use of OPAC, make every effort to simplify the use of OPAC and create awareness programmes to educate users on the importance of OPAC all of which will further promote the use of OPAC for information retrieval in Nigerian libraries.
Keywords: OPAC, card catalogue, Web OPAC, information retrieval, Nigerian libraries
MADUBUKO, MICHEAL NNAEMEKA and EKWELEM, CHUKWUNAZA NNAEMEKA
DIGITAL LITERACY: TOOL FOR EDUCATION REFORM IN THE 21ST CENTURY
Abstract
The study aims at exploring the concepts of digital literacy, examining the basic areas of education reform and digital literacy tools available for students and studying ways of actualizing modern education through digital literacy. The study reviews related literature in order to find out the state of the art. It is worrisome that digital technologies are not fully utilized in modern educational settings. The implication is that in order to meet up with the modern education philosophy, the digital literacy must be highly recommended. This cannot be achieved without the plan to develop teachers and students’ interest towards learning digital literacy skills. This calls for government and other stakeholders in education to work towards installing various digital devices inside schools for learning digital literacy skills. The study concludes with recommendations on how these giant stride technologies can meet the needs of learners and teachers.
Keywords: Digital literacy, Education, Education Reform, Education in 21st Century
MUOKA, FIDELIA CHINWENDU
FEE-BASED INFORMATION SERVICES AS PANACEA FOR EFFECTIVE LIBRARY MANAGEMENT
Abstract
This paper examines the conceptual nature of fee-based services, types of free based library services that can become fee based services, benefits of fee-based services to libraries, tips of library fee-based services, situation report about fee based information services in Nigerian libraries, strategies to enhance fee-based services in library and challenges of fee based information services to libraries .The paper concluded that the impact of limited funds and resources must be lessened, and librarians must devise strategies to maintain, enhance, and deliver top-notch services to users through fee-based services. It was recommended amongst others that Fee-based library services shouldnt be viewed as being solely for profit; rather, to partially recover costs with little or no profit motive, and in order to avoid losing customers, very modest fees should be charged for services provided in libraries.
Keywords: fee-base; information services; library management and effective library management.
ADETONA, CHARITY ONOIMIUKO And JAMES, FRIDAY
ENTREPRENEURIAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE PROFESSIONALS IN THE CONTEMPORARY ERA
Abstract
This paper aims to examine entrepreneurial opportunities available to library and information science graduates. It examined the concept of entrepreneurship, job opportunity, librarianship, contemporary era as well as highlighting the skills required by library and information science professionals, the paper further identified challenges such as poor attitude of library and information science graduates towards entrepreneurship, lack of entrepreneurial spirit, poor sources of funds among other factors hindering professionals from engaging fully in entrepreneurship and suggested use of skills acquired during training and development of entrepreneurial spirit by LIS graduates as some of the way forward. The paper concludes that LIS Professionals should embrace the entrepreneurial opportunities available to them having acquired all the skills required to embark on the business of entrepreneurship in the course of training to become professionals.
Keywords: Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurial opportunities, Library and Information Science professionals, contemporary era
QUEEN SHIMENENGE BUMKENG and MARY EHI ADADU
FUNDING RESEARCH LIBRARIES IN NIGERIA: ISSUES AND WAY FORWARD
Abstract
Research libraries are important appendages to research institutions and their primary aim is to aid the parent body achieve their mandate and objectives which is to advance knowledge production and innovation through research. This paper is designed to highlight the funding challenges plagued by research libraries in Nigeria and to identify practical ways to ameliorate their financial situation. Findings from this paper is based on a conceptual study which revealed the contrast between the ambitions targets of the country’s national science and technology policies and the level of fund allocations provided to research institutions. The ability of the research libraries to effectively execute their primary functions as gatekeepers of knowledge and information is significantly impeded due to lack of funds. It was therefore suggested that while the library continues to strengthen their advocacies and lobbying of key stakeholders, policymakers and the management. There is also the need to look into alternative monetary sources as well engage in activities that will capture the attention of their management and research community to promote the relevance of the research library as equal partners in fulfilling the research goals of the country.
NGOZI ODILI
INFORMATION OVERLOAD AND ITS EFFECTS ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF STUDENTS
Abstract
Students like any other category of persons need information relating to their subject discipline, information to do their assignments, to prepare seminars papers and for carrying out research. However, where students are bombarded with too much information from the internet, social media and on library shelves, particularly unnecessary or irrelevant information, it leads them to confusion, distraction, lack of concentration, poor academic performance for students. The paper looks at the causes of information overload, effects of information overload and the effect of information overload on students’ academic performance. Suggestion for overcoming this effect was suggested among which is the use of filtering and withdrawal strategy, making use of libraries where librarians will guide them to the best databases that have filtered information resources capable of meeting the students’ information need.
Keywords: Information, Information Overload, Students, Academic performance
Olayinka Mary Adekoya and Chivirter Akune
KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT AND NEW TECHNOLOGIES AS TOOL FOR EFFECTIVE SERVICE DELIVERY IN ACADEMIC LIBRARIES.
Abstract.
This study examines knowledge management and new technologies as tools for effective service delivery in academic libraries in Nigeria. The study is an opinion based research, and relevant literatures on the subject matter were reviewed. Findings from the study showed that knowledge management as a newly structured concept in the past few decades has become essential tool for strategic cross fertilization of ideas, skills, and expertise knowledge amongst members of organization for effective delivery of organizational goals; whereas, new technologies are the processing system that facilitate knowledge creation, coding storage, dissemination, transmission and retrieval for use and reuse which are at the core of knowledge management practices. Despite claims about librarians often being engaged in KM as their practice core, the study concluded that librarians have to reconsider their knowledge management perspectives to include; Result-oriented Perspective, Process Perspective, and Technology Perspective in order to achieve effective service delivery. Recommendations were also made.
Key words; Academic library service, knowledge management and new technologies.
MMADU, GODWIN
THE ROLE OF INFORMATION DISSEMINATION TECHNOLOGIES IN NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Abstract
The role of information has increased rapidly due to social and dynamic developments in science and technology. Information plays an integral part in human life. Virtually every nation of the world undertakes one kind of research or the other. The research findings are used to address national development issues. These research findings are made public through the use of information dissemination technologies. This study used historical survey method. It’s objectives are: to review services provided through the use of mobile technologies, to identify the advantages of mobile technologies and to determine the role information dissemination technologies play in nation building. The survey found out that information dissemination technologies play prominent roles in education, health, security and economy of every nation. The impact of information dissemination technologies are felt more in developed nations. The study recommends that developing countries like Nigeria should invest more in scientific and technological researches and the findings adopted for the development of the country.
Key Words: Development, Information, Dissemination, Technologies, Mobile Technologies and Library Services.
UGWU, IKECHUKWU CELESTINE
PUBLIC LIBRARY SERVICES FOR PROMOTING PEACE IN MULTI-CULTURAL SOCIETY: ISSUES AND WAY FORWARD
Abstract
Nigeria is made up of different types of people with different cultures, beliefs, traditions, and languages among others and every citizen of the country has a legitimate right to access information. Based on this, public library was established, to provide relevant services to the teeming population. But these public libraries do not provide services that cut across multicultural settings. As such, this paper attempts to have a look at public library services for promoting peace in a multi-cultural society: issues and way forward. Provide a way forward such as staff cultural competence strategy; selection policies strategy, acquisition strategy, multicultural users-focus strategy, current awareness services strategy, cooperation strategy, and community welfare strategy for promoting peace in a multicultural society. The paper presents some recommendations which include: public libraries should host art/ music poetry events with the theme of peace, public libraries should provide materials that teach peace and religious tolerance among people as well as engage in advocating for peace among others.
Keywords: Public library, Multicultural society, library services, Peace, Advocacy,
REGINA OLOHILIYE NGORNGOR (CLN)
THE HUMAN PERSPECTIVE OF LIBRARY INFORMATION MANAGEMENT AND SECURITY SYSTEM
Abstract
The paper focuses on human perspective as a threat to information management and security in a university library. The paper shows that majority of the university recognized that their staff, who are mostly thought of the weakest links in information management and security, also can be great assets in the effect to reduce risk associated with data management and security. The paper also highlights the emergence of the dangerous online activities, Smartphone’s, it’s capabilities, its wide adaptabilities and its threat to Informationmanagement and security as used by internet fraudsters to commit such reprehensible crimes as cyber cracking, extortion etc.
Keywords: Human Aspects, Management and Security Awareness, Smartphone, Malware, Information.