Librarians’ utilization of collection development policy and management of electronic information resources in university libraries in South-South, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the utilization of collection development policy and the management of electronic information resources by librarians in university libraries located in the South-South region of Nigeria. This study provided answers to such questions as: to what extent are librarians knowledgeable about collection development policy for management of EIRs in the university libraries? To what extent do librarians utilize the knowledge of collection development policy for the management of EIRs in the university libraries? And what is the relationship between librarians’ utilization of the knowledge of collection development policy, and management of electronic information resources (EIRs) in university libraries in south-south Nigeria? The study quantitatively employed the descriptive survey design of correlational type. The target population for the study were Librarians in South-South, Nigeria. Data were collected from librarians working in university libraries within the South-South region through a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire covered areas such as the existence and content of collection development policies, the selection and acquisition of electronic resources, budget allocation, user needs assessment, and evaluation of electronic resources. Data gathered were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics such as mean, standard deviation and relevant inferential statistics. The findings of the study reveal a high level of Librarian utilization of collection development policies in the region. The study shows that while some libraries have well-defined policies that inform their decision-making processes, others lack comprehensive policies or fail to implement them effectively. Findings from the study further revealed that Librarians’ knowledge of collection development policy explained a significant amount of the variance in the management of electronic information resources, F (1,204) = 14562.451, p = .000, R2 =. 993, R adjusted = .986. The regression coefficient (B = .906) indicated that an increase in librarians’ knowledge of collection development policy corresponds on average, to an increase in the management of electronic information resources. It also underscores the need for enhanced training and professional development opportunities for librarians to effectively manage electronic information resources. Furthermore, the study recommends collaborative efforts among university libraries, library consortia, and relevant stakeholders to address the challenges associated with budget constraints and improve resource-sharing initiatives. In conclusion, this study sheds light on the utilization of collection development policies and the management of electronic information resources by librarians in university libraries in the South-South region of Nigeria. The findings provide valuable insights for library administrators and policymakers to enhance collection development practices and ensure the effective management of electronic resources in these academic libraries.