Application of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) to Library Operations and Routines in Selected Nigerian Federal University Libraries

Abstract

Digital media have revolutionized information sources and advances in Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) and have dramatically enhanced information provision. The process of library operations and routines has become very challenging and complex. Libraries as centres for learning, teaching and research can no longer cope with the use of traditional methods. To this end, the study examines the Application of Information and Communication technologies (ICTs) to Library Operations and Routines in Selected Nigerian Federal University Libraries. Survey research method was adopted for the study; six (6) academic libraries in Federal Universities in the six geo-political zones of Nigeria were selected for this study. Area or cluster probability sampling was used for this study. Questionnaire was instrument used for data collection. A total of 336 (92.3 %) copies of the questionnaire were returned duly completed and found usable for this study, Data were analysed descriptively, to further clarified the researchers interviewed one staff each from the selected academic libraries. The study found among others that ICT facilities are frequently applied in cataloguing and classification of information resources with a score of 250 (74%) and selection of information resources with a score of 244 (73%) while statistical records with the least score of 44%, computers was the most often used IC facilities in the library studied. The study concluded that digital media have revolutionized information resources and the advances in ICT have dramatically enhanced information provision not only in the selection, ordering, acquisition, processing, storage and retrieval of library information resources but also improved staff productivity. It is expected that the NFUL can fully utilize the benefit of ICT facilities, especially, the digitization of local contents, institutional repository and functioning websites. The challenges of ICT utilization in the libraries if not properly handled will reduce their potentials to achieve the goals and objectives of their parent institutions. The study recommended among others that, the NFUL should use Open-source library information management software and DSpace content management system and document management to manage the library.