Readiness of librarians in public libraries towards integration of social media tools in library services delivery in south-east Nigeria

Abstract

The study is designed to x-ray the level of preparedness of librarians in Nigerian Public libraries towards integrating social media to the provision of library and information services (LIS). The survey research method was adopted using public libraries in south-east geo-political zone of Nigeria. The population of study comprises of core librarians working in the various public libraries in the south-east geo-political zone of Nigeria. It was revealed that the level of readiness among librarians in public libraries towards integrating social media to library service delivery is very low. Paucity of funds, indifferent attitude of public library managers, non-existence of social media policy, low level of ICT literacy among librarians in public libraries are the major constraints to effective integration of social media. This study has not only provided empirical evidences on the readiness of librarians in public libraries towards integrating social media tools to library and information services but also recommends ways for successful integration of social media into the public library system..

Keywords: community libraries, public libraries, social media, information services, south-east