Availability and accessibility of e-books in Nigerian libraries: a survey

Abstract

This paper investigates availability and accessibility of e-books in Nigeria Libraries. A social survey method of research was adopted for the study and the questionnaire as a research instrument was used. A systematic random sampling technique was used to determine respondents in the survey. The result shows that e-books penetration in libraries is still very low. The study also reveals that respondents accessed both paid for and free e-books. Challenges identified include embargo period, issues of payment per loan basis, re-licensing title etc. The study recommends that library stakeholders should lobby government and publishers to highlight the importance of access to affordable e-books in Nigerian libraries.

Keywords: E-Books, Accessibility, Availability, Nigerian libraries