The Impact Of Information Technology On Business Administration And Management (A Study Of John Librartory And Benson Idahosa University)

Description

ABSTRACT

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has brought unprecedented changes and transformation to academic libraries and information services. Taking into cognizance the recent trends in ICT and the Nigerian situation, this work elicits the impact of ICT in Nigerian University Libraries. The primary objectives were to ascertain the level of automation, to determine the usefulness of ICT resources, the effectiveness of ICT resources, the required skills in using ICT resources and the factors militating against the effective use of ICT. John Harris Library, University of Benin and Benson Idahosa University Library, both in Edo State of Nigeria were used as case study. The survey research design was employed and the instrument used for data collection was the Questionnaire. Simple tables and percentages were used to analyze the data collected. The research work revealed that both University Libraries are automated computerized and that they apply Strategic Library Automation Management (SLAM); only three divisions of the libraries are computerized/automated which are Readers Services Division, Technical Services Division and Collection Development division, the major reason attached to the use of ICT resources was for information storage and retrieval, the ICT resources mostly used are CD-ROM, online database, World Wide Web and the Internet. The study also revealed that ICT has an enormous impact based on its effectiveness. Inadequate training and retraining of staff by management inadequate funding, epileptic power supply and lack of search skills are the major factors militating against the effective use of ICT in Nigerian University libraries. Amongst others, inadequate funding, capacity building, regular power supply were recommended.

 CHAPTER ONE

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

With the invention of Information and Communication Technology, libraries now use various types of technologies to aid the services they render. Everyday new technological advances affect the way information is handled in libraries and information centers. The impacts of new technologies are felt in libraries in every aspect. Computing technology, communication technology and mass storage technology are some of the areas of continuous development that reshaped the ways that libraries access, retrieve, store, manipulate and disseminate information to users. The academic library has been from its inception an integral part of institutions of higher learning, rather than an appendix or adjunct.

Oyedun (2007) defines academic libraries as those libraries that are mainly found in tertiary institutions, they are established to support learning, teaching and research processes. Over the past twenty seven years, academic libraries have been affected by changes in information and communication technology. The rate of changes is still accelerating in this era. The introduction of various information technology (ICT) trends has led to reorganizational, change in work patterns, and demand for new skills, job retraining and reclassification of positions. Technological advancement of the past twenty five years, such as the electronic database, online services, CD-ROMs and introduction of internet has radically transformed access to information. Rana (2009) opines that ICT holds the key to the success of modernizing information services. Applications of ICT are numerous but mainly it is used in converting the existing paper-print records in the entire process of storage, retrieval and dissemination. ICT has impacted on every sphere of academic library activity especially in the form of the library collection development strategies, library building and consortia. ICT presents an opportunity to provide value-added information services and access to a wide variety of digital based information resources to their clients. Furthermore, academic libraries are also using modern ICTs to

automate their core functions, implement efficient and effective library cooperation and resource sharing networks, implement management information systems, develop institutional repositories of digital local contents, and digital libraries: and initiate ICT based capacity building programmes for library users.

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has brought unprecedented changes and transformation to academic library and information services, conventional LIS such as OPAC, users services, reference services, bibliographic services, current awareness services, Document delivery, interlibrary loan, Audio visual services and customer relations can be provide more efficiently and effectively using ICT, as they offer convenient time, place, cost effectiveness, faster and most-up-to-date dissemination and end users involvement in the library and information services process. The impact of ICT characterized on information services by changes in format, contents and method of production and contents and method of production and delivery of information products. Emergence of internet as the largest repository of information and knowledge, changed the role of library and information science professionals from intermediary to facilitator, new tools for dissemination of information and shift from physical to virtual services environment and extinction of some conventional information services and emergence of new and innovational web based.

 

1.2  STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

Considering the enormous benefits that had been  experienced from the impact of ICT in Nigerian University Libraries, the Nigerian academic libraries still experience some obstacles or hindrances in the effective and efficient operations of business. Today ICT acquisition and operations are facing a lot of problems. This research work was conducted to expose some of the inhibiting factors that are hindering the positive impact of ICT application on effective business administration of Nigeria of  Nigerian academic Libraries.

1.3 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

1. To ascertain the level of computerization/automation of academic Libraries.
2. To determine the usefulness of ICT resources in academic libraries.
3. To determine the efficiency and effectiveness of ICT in academic library.
4. To determine how skillful and knowledgeable the staff are in the use of ICT resources.
5. To determine the challenges associated with the application of ICT in Nigerian academic libraries.

1.4  PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

The purpose of the study is to ascertain the impact of ICT on business Administration and management of Nigerian academic libraries. The research work highlights the advantages or merit associated with ICT on academic libraries in Nigeria.

1.5  RESEARCH QUESTIONS

1. To what extent has information and communication technology been employed in Nigerian university libraries?
2. What is the usefulness of information and communication technology in Nigerian academic libraries?
3. How efficient and effective is the use of ICT resources in Academic Libraries.
4. Do the staff of the academic Libraries have the required knowledge and skills in using ICT resources?
5. What are the factors militating against the application of ICT in academic libraries?

1.6 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

1. This study is expected to provide a basis for comprehensive information and communication technology procurement and application in Nigeria University Library.
2. The study will establishe the existing gaps in the adoption of information and communication technology in the operations of academic library in achieving their statutory functions.

iii.   The out-put of this study will serve as a blue-print for libraries, information managers/information scientists, researchers, lecturers, students, and teachers to chart the right course of action for the use of information and communication technology in furthering education through policy formulation and implementation.

 

1.7 SCOPE OF THE STUDY

This research work is on the impact of ICT on Business Administration and Management of Nigerian Universities Library using John Harris Library (Benin- city) and Benson Idahosa University Library (BIU) as a case study.

 

1.8 DEFINITION OF TERMS 

The definition of the following terms is used in the work:

• ICT: information and communication technology.
• Library: the Nigeria academic libraries still experience some obstacle or hindrances in the effective and efficient use of ICT resources in the library.

 

 

 

CHAPTER TWO

 

2.0 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

 

2.1 HISTORY OF BENSON IDAHOSA UNIVERSITY LIBRARY

The Benson Idahosa university library occupies a three (3) storey circular building situated opposite the central Administration building. The library is fully air-conditioned with the first floor fully rugged wall to wall to enhance maximum comfort for serious academic and research activities. The Library has a usable floor area of 156 square meters which can serve 2,432 students in a seating capacity of 300 persons. The library serves as the hub round which the academic activities revolve. The books acquired and shelved in the library cover virtually all the courses offered at both undergraduate and post graduate levels in the university. In addition to textbooks, the library has an assemblage of publications from the World Bank, the federal and states governments of Nigeria.

The library has a stock of over 42,014 volumes of text books and reference books. It subscribes to about three hundred and seventeen (317) current journal titles with two hundred and four (204) foreign titles and One hundred and thirteen (113) local titles. There are also back files of journals for some of the current titles.

Administration:- Administration rests on the shoulders of professional, paraprofessionals, confidential secretaries and library assistants who form the library staff base. The administration is tri-segmented namely

Collection Development:- For selecting, acquiring and processing of library materials. Acquisition of materials is guided by the Acquisition policy of the University which permits that every title should have at least three (3) copies and prohibits the acquisition of used or second hand books

Technical Services:- For cataloguing and classification of information materials using the Anglo-American cataloguing rules of 1978(AACR2) with the latest edition of library of congress classification schemes, the cataloguing and classification of materials is done on the BIU cataloguing worksheet which is designed according to the CDS/ISIS software package.

2.2  HISTORY OF JOHN HARRIS LIBRARY

“The Father of Librarianship in Nigeria” William John Harris was born in Oamaru, New Zealand in 1903. He went to study in Britain, graduating from University College, Oxford, in 1929. From 1935 to 1948 he was librarian of the University of Otago in New Zealand. His appointment in 1948 to head the library of University College, Ibadan, laid the foundation for modern librarianship in Nigeria.

John Harris, as he was known, arrived on the scene when the Nigerian library profession was in its embryonic stage. Higher education was also new, the college in Ibadan was the first post-secondary institution in the country. Most of the population of Nigeria was engaged in farming. There was an acute shortage of skilled personnel. Without any library education facility, it was especially difficult to find professional staff for libraries. Nigeria lacked scholarly publishing, a national bibliography, a library association, and other elements of a publishing/library infrastructure. There was no concept of a specific type of tropical library building.

Within a few years, Harris had addressed many of the gaps in the library situation. He founded and directed the university press at Ibadan. He initiated Nigeria Publications, forerunner of the National Bibliography of Nigeria. The formation of the West African Libraries Association (WALA) was in large measure the result of his leadership; he was first president of WALA, and editor of its journal. WALA was later succeeded by local organizations, among them the Nigerian Library Association. From 1958 to 1968 Harris was chair of the board of directors of the University Bookshop, which remains today (under the nurturing management of his widow, Marguerite Harris) one of the largest in the country. University College Library performed some of the functions usually associated with national libraries. The Publications and Ordinance Law was passed in 1950, making it compulsory for publishers to deposit two copies of every book in the Ibadan University College Library. The National Library of Nigeria was not established until 1964.

At the core of such activities was the commitment of John Harris to elevating the status of libraries and librarians. Ade-Ajayi remembered that “it was central to his whole career that a university library must be not just a book store or book club incidental to the academic development of the university, but the very heart of that development. And to achieve this each university librarian must be fully integrated into that development, learned in a branch of knowledge, and participating fully along side academic staff in the faculty boards and senate.” A critical step toward the achievement of those goals was the creation of a library school. Following the seminal 1957 report of that other “pioneer,” Harold Lancour, funds were received from the Carnegie Corporation to establish such a school. Harris was in fact responsible for encouraging the Carnegie Corporation to undertake the survey that resulted in the Lancour recommendations.  He directed the new Institute of Librarianship (as it was named from 1963), and his library staff were the other teachers. Students prepared for the (British) Library Association registration examinations. In 1963 Harris successfully requested an additional grant from the Carnegie Corporation, $113,000 for the appointment of three full-time teachers. The program, now the Department of Library, Archival and Information Studies, has been the alma mater of many librarians in leadership roles throughout the country.

As an active member of the building committee in Ibadan, Harris was deeply involved in the planning and design of the permanent buildings on the campus. The library was at first housed in two prefabricated wooden structures; it moved into a six-story modern building in 1954. It was Harris who developed a vision of tropical library architecture and brought it to fruition in the Ibadan library, well before there was a useful literature on the subject to guide him.  The annex building, although completed after Harris had left Ibadan, also bears the stamp of his meticulous planning and foresight.

No better evidence of success in advancing the status of librarians could be given than the appointment of Harris, in 1964, to be deputy vice-chancellor of the university. Such a post had been perceived as the exclusive preserve of the professorial members of the university. It was through the efforts of John Harris that university librarians in Nigeria became recognized as academic staff on an equal footing with teaching staff.

During the civil war that broke out in 1966, Ibadan personnel of Eastern origin (including the vice-chancellor) had to leave their posts. Harris was appointed acting vice-chancellor, and proved to be a firm, competent administrator in a troubled time. He retired from the university in 1968, and was awarded its honorary degree Doctor of Letters in 1969.

Harris had two post-retirement positions. From 1968 to 1970 he was a professor of library studies at the University of Ghana. Then he returned to Nigeria as librarian of the Mid-West Institute of Technology, Benin (now the University of Benin). He repeated a number of his Ibadan initiatives in Benin, gaining recognition of the library as an academic department, and serving as acting vice-chancellor. Loughborough University of Technology, in Britain, honored Harris with the degree Doctor of Literature in 1974. University of Otago (New Zealand) awarded him the honorary Doctor of Laws in 1978. He died on 3 January 1980 at Bacchus Marsh, Victoria, Australia.

CHAPTER THREE

3.0  RESEARCH METHOD

3.1 RESEARCH DESIGN

The choice of the survey as the research design for the project was necessitated by the nature of the study. This research is a survey research that gathered data from members of the selected population with the aid of the Questionnaire in order to determine the current status of the issue under study from the respective institutions.

3.2 POPULATION OF THE STUDY AND SAMPLE

The population of this study covers all the professional and Para-professional staff of the two selected academic libraries.

Table 2.1 Population of Study

s/N	LIBRARIES	STAFF		TOTAL
		Professional	para- professional
1	John Harris Library	19	20	39
2	Benison Idahosa University Library	25	24	10
	Total			49

Source: field survey 2013

 

Table 2.1 shows staff population in the two university libraries used for the study. As shown in the table 3.1 John Harris Library (UNIBEN) has 19 professional and 20 Para-professional and while Benson Idahosa University has 6 professional and 4 paraprofessional staff. In all these there are 49 professional and paraprofessional staff in the two selected university libraries.

Since the number of the population is small (that is, 49) the whole population was used for this study rather than a sample. Put differently, the sample is 100% of the population.

3.3 RESEARCH INSTRUMENT

The main research instrument used for the research was the Questionnaire designed by the researcher. The choice of this instrument was prompted by its reliability and validity of the answers. This is so because the interaction between the researcher and the respondents, which could bias the responses to the questions in the questionnaire, is minimal. Apart from the above advantage other advantage of the Questionnaire as a research instrument as stated by Ifidon and Ifidon (2007) include;

• Ability to gather information for gigantic investigations.
• Its usefulness for obtaining opinion of judgments; and for surveying attitudes.
• practicability of using it to gather information by correspondence.
• Applicability to the large assemblage, of people.
• Provision of more efficient data collection because many subjects can be tested at the same time.
• Completion of the questionnaire at the respondents convenience.
• Reactivity and social desirability may be reduced because of completing a questionnaire anonymously can be much less threatening.
• Low cost of data gathering
• Case of collections and analysis of data.
• Elimination of research bias.
• Possibility of mailing it.

The above advantage amongst other factors necessitated the use of questionnaire used in this research was divided into various sections, that is section A-F. Section A elicits information relating to the Bio-data or personal data of the professional and Para-professional staff. Section B elicits information dealing with the level of computerization/ automation. Section C has information dealing with the usefulness of ICT resources. Section D contained item dealing with the effectiveness of ICT. Section E elicits information relating to the skills in using ICT resources.

Section F contained the factors militating against the application of ICT in Nigeria University Library.

 

 

 

3.4 METHOD OF DATA COLLECTION

49 copies of Questionnaire (100% of the population) were administered to the Professional and the Para-professional library staff of these two selected University Library in Edo State. That is, John Harris Library (UNIBEN) Benin City, and Benson Idahosa University Library (BIU) Benin-City. The researchers personally administered the copies of the Questionnaires to the respondents.

Items which needed clarification were explained to the respondents. To ensure that the respondents do not have ready answers and to avoid bias responses, the respondents were not pre-informed of the visit by the researchers. Out of the 49 copies of the Questionnaire administered, 48 (97.9%) were returned to the researchers at the end.

 

 

3.5 METHOD OF DATA ANALYSIS

The method of data analysis used in this project was simplest form of organizing data, it aids understating and it series. The useful purpose of helping the researcher to see the similarities and relationship of his data. Equally, converting data to percentage responses enables the researcher to compare sub group of unequal size meaningfully. (Ifidon and Ifidon, 2007).

In this research the raw figures were converted to percentages and tabulated. The responses were analyzed according to their relevance to the research questions.

CHAPTER FOUR

4.0 DATA ANALYSIS, PRESENTATION OF RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

4.1  INTRODUCTION

The focus of this research is on the impact of ICT on Nigerian University libraries. In this chapter the data collected were presented, analyzed, interpreted and discussed.

To provide the data and institutional setting are John Harris University Library (UNIBEN) and Benson Idohosa University Library (BIU) both are located in Benin-city, Edo State of Nigeria.

4.2  DATA ANALYSIS

A total of 49 copies of the Questionnaire were administered to professional and paraprofessional staff in the two selected university libraries. Forty-eight (97.9%) copies of the Questionnaires administered were returned, it was into various sections A-F.

Table 1: Distribution of questionnaires to John Harris Library and Bensonidahosa university library.

S/N	CADRE OF STAFF	NO OF RESPONDENTS	PERCENTAGE
1	Professional staff	25	51%
2	Para-Professional staff	24	49%
	Total	49	100%

source: field survey 2013

Table1 shows staff population in the two university libraries used as study.

 

Table 2: Number of questionnaires retrieved from both University Libraries

S/N	RETRIVEED	NO.OF RESPONDENTS	PERCENTAGE
1	Professional	24	50
2	Para-Professional	24	50
	Total	48	100%

Source: field survey 2013

A total of forty nine copies of the questionnaire were administered to the respondents of both university libraries which consist of professional and Paraprofessional staff. Out of the 49 questionnaire, 48 were retrievable and was properly, filled that is to say (97.9%) of the questionnaire were eventually completed and returned.See tables 1 and 2.

Table 3: Gender analysis of both university Libraries

 

S/N	GENDER	NO OF RESPONDENTS	PERCENTAGE
1	Male	19	3.9.6%
2	Female	29	60.4%
	Total	48	100%

Source: field survey 2013

The table above shows that out of the total number of respondents from both University libraries, 29 (60.4%) were female while 19 (39.6%) were male. That is to say that the female staff forms the majority of the staff in both libraries understudy.

Table 4: Distribution of respondents by Age

S/N	AGE RENGE	NO OF RESPONDENTS	PERCENTAGE
1	25-35 years	12	25
2	36-45 years	22	46.0
4	56 and above	4	8.0
	Total	48	100

Source: field survey 2013

From the above Table 4, in view of the response of the respondents it was indicated that most of the respondents are 36-45 years representing 22 (46.0%) which form the majority of the respondents working in both university, followed by 25 – 35 years representing 12 (25%) respondents; while 46 – 55 years representing 10 (21.0%) and 56 and above representing 4 (8.0%) respectively.

 

Table 5: Educational Qualification of respondents

S/N	QUALIFICATION	NO OF RESPONDENTS	PERCENTAGE
1	MA/MSC/MLS	9	19.0%
2	BSC/BLS/BA	15	31.0%
4	PhD	–	–
	TOTAL	48	100%

Source: field survey 2013

24 (50%) respondents had OND/NCE/Diploma/ ND, followed by 15 (31.0%) respondents that has BSC/BLS/BA and 9 respondent representing 19.0% had master degrees in Art, Science or Library and information science. None of the respondents had PhD.

Table 6: Distribution of respondents based on the number of staff in both University libraries. 

S/N	OPPTION	NO OF RESPONDENTS	PERCENTAGE
1	Professional staff	24	50%
2	Para-Professional staff	24	50%
	Total	48	100%

 Table 6: shows that both the professional staff and the Para-professional staff of both University Libraries arrived at equilibrium based on the responses of the respondents.

Table 7: Level of computerization

S/N	OPPTION	NO OF RESPONDENTS	PERCENTAGE
1	Yes	48	100%
2	NO	–	–
	Total	48	100%

Source: field survey 2013

In regards to the response of the respondents, it shows that both university libraries under study are computerized/automated. Because all the respondents responses was yes to the question posed by the researcher.

 

Table 8: Distribution of respondents based on the divisions of the Library that is computerized

S/N	DIVISION OF THE LIBRARY	NO OF RESPONDENTS	PERCENTAGE
1	Readers service division	24	50%
2	Technical service division	13	27.1%
3	Collection development division	11	22.9%
	TOTAL	48	100%

Source: field survey 2013

 

Table 8 shows that only three divisions of both university libraries is computerized which are the readers services division, Technical service division and collection development division while the research collection and system development division is not computerized.

 

TABLE 9: USEFULNESS OF ICT RESOURCES IN BOTH UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES

S/N	ICT Resources	NO OF RESPONDENTS	PERCENTAGE
1	Search engine	5	10.4%
2	Internet	7	14.6%
3	World Wide Web	38	17.0%
4	CD-ROM	18	38.0%
5	Online database	10	21.0%
	TOTAL	48	100%

Source: field survey 2013

Table 9 shows that 18 (38.0%) of the respondents made use of CD-ROM compact-disk read only memory), 10 (21.0%) respondents use the online database; 8 respondents representing 17.0% use World Wide Web, while 7 respondents representing 14.6% use Internet and lastly only 5 (10.4%) respondents use search engine. From the table it can be deduced that the majority of the respondents use CD-ROM.

 

Table 10: Reason for the use of ICT resource

S/N	OPTION	NO OF RESPONDENTS	PERCENTAGE
1	To acquire information	8	17.0%
2	To process information	9	19.0%
3	To store information	22	45.8%
4	To retrieve information	7	16.0%
5	To disseminate information	2	4.2%
	TOTAL	48	100%

Source: field survey 2013

 

The table 10 above reveals that 22 (45.8) use ICT resources mainly for storing information; followed by 9 respondents representing 19.0%; 8(17.0%) respondents use ICT resources for acquisition of information; while 7 respondent representing 16.0% use ICT resources to retrieve information that has been stored for posterity purpose and (4.2%) use ICT resources for dissemination of information

 

Table 11: Distribution of respondents based on the effectiveness of ICT on both University libraries

 

S/N	OPTION	SA	D	SD	PERCENTEGE
1	Automation has eased my library operation	28 58.3%	12 25%	10.4%	36.3%
2	Automation has show-down my library operation	2 41%	12.1%	15.31.3%	30 62.5%
3	Automation has aid my library in meeting users need quickly	22 45.8%	18 37.5%	4 8.3%	4 8.3%
4	Automation  has speeded up the process of cataloguing and classification of library material	32 66.7%	14 29 1%	1 2.1%	2 4.1%
5	Automation has helped to reduce anti library crime.	11 22.9%	21.44.0%	9 18.6%	7 14.5%
6	With automation the library has been effective in selective dissemination of information.	24 50%	13 27.1%	6 12.5%	5 10.4%
7	Automation has positively impacted charging and discharging of books in my library	38 79.2%	10 20.8%	–	–
8	ICT enables most effective resource sharing	41 85.4%	5 10.4%	2 4.2%	–
9	Online datable provide more up-to-date information in the library	23 47.9%	17 35.4%	3 6.3%	5 10.4%

Source: field survey 2013

 

Table 11 shows the frequency at which the effect and effectiveness of ICT has on academic libraries. The data reveals that 28 (58.3%) of the respondents strongly agree that automation has eased their library operation, 12 respondents representing 25% agreed that automation has eased their library

operations, 5 (10.4%) of respondents disagree, only 3 (6.3%) of the respondents strongly disagree that automation has eased their library operation. 30 (62.5%) respondents which form the majority of the respondents strongly disagree that automation has slow down their library operation, followed by 15

(31.3%) respondents disagree; 2 (4.1%) strongly agree and 1 respondents representing 2.1% agree that automation has slow down their library operation. As shown in table 12 (No 16) those who affirm that automation has aided their library in meeting users need quickly are 22 (45.8%) respondents, while 18 (37.5%) agreed, and also 4 respondent representing 8.3% disagree, and 4 respondent representing 8.3% strongly disagree. 32 (66.7%) of the respondents strongly agree with the view that automation has speeded up the process of cataloguing and classification of library materials, which form the highest percentage, and also 14 respondents representing 29.1% agreed, while 2 (4.1) respondents strongly disagree and only 1 respondent representing 2.1% disagree. 21 (44.0%) of the respondents agree that automation has helped to reduce anti-library crimes, followed by 11 (22.9%) respondents which also strongly agreed, while 9 (18.6) of the respondent disagreed and 7 respondents representing 14.5% strongly agreed, while 9 (18.6) of the respondent disagreed and 7 respondents representing 14.5% strongly disagree. 24 (50%) respondents strongly affirm that with automation has been effective in selective dissemination of information; 13 (27.1%) respondents also agreed; while 6 (12.5%) respondents disagree and 5 respondents representing 10.4% strongly disagree with the view.

38 (79.2%) representing 10.4% strongly disagree with the view.38 (79.2%) respondents strongly agree that automation has positively impacted charging and discharging of books in their library and 10 respondents representing 20.8% agreed. 41 (85.4%) respondents affirm that ICT enables most effective ways of resource sharing; followed by 5 respondents representing 10.4% agreed, and only 2 respondents representing 4.2% disagree.

 

In regards to the view which states that online database provide more up-to date information in the library was strongly agreed by 23 (47.9%) respondents agree,  Few respondents that is 3 (6.3%) disagree and 5 respondents representing 10.4% strongly disagree.

 

TABLE 12: RATING OF ICT SKILLS

S/N	LEVEL OF ICT/ COMPUTER LITERACY SKILL	NO OF REPONDENTS	PERCENTAGE
1	Excellent	3	6.3%
2	Very good	–	–
3	Good	21	43.7%
4	Fair	19	39.6%
5	No skills	5	10.4%
	Total	48	100%

Source: field survey 2013

 

In table 11 (Question 23). Majority of the respondents who have good computer skills are 21 (43.7%), followed by those that have fair computer skills, they are 19 (39.6%) respondents; few of the respondent representing 5 (10.4%) had noskill at all. Only 3 respondents representing 6.3% had excellent computer skills.

TABLE 13: DISTRIBUTIONS OF RESPONDENTS BASED ON HOW ICT SKILLS WERE ACQUIRED IN BOTH UNIVERSITIES LIBRARIES.

 

S/N	MEANS OF ACQUIRING ICT SKILL	NO OF RESPONDENT	PERCENTAGE
1	Staff in house training	3	6.3%
2	Self study	10	20.8%
3	FOMAL TRAINING	18	37.%
4	TRIAL AND ERRO	17	35.5
	TOTAL	48	100%

Source: field survey 2013

 

The table 13 above shown that the majority of the respondents, i.e. 18 (37.5%) acquire ICT training skills via formal training; followed by 17 (35.4%) respondents which also acquired the skills via trial and error, while few i.e. 10 (20.8%) respondents acquired ICT skills via self – study and the least was 3 (6.3%) respondents that acquired the skills via staff-in-house training.

 

Table 14: Distribution of respondents based on the category of staff that would be needed to handle automation and assist users.

S/N	CATEGORY OF STAFF	NO OF RESPONDENT	PERCENTAGE
1	Staff trained in ICT	12	25%
2	Staff trained in librarianship	28	58.%
3	Staff in various profession	8	16.7%
4	Amy category of staff	–	–
	Total	48	100%

Source: field survey 2013

 

According to table 15, 28 (58.3%) respondents form the majority of the category of staff that would be needed in handling automation to assist users in meeting their information needs effectively, are staff trained in librarianship and ICTs, followed by 12 (25%) respondents representing staff trained in ICTs, only 8 respondents representing 16.9% indicates that staff trained in various profession.

 

Table 15: Factors militating against the application of ICT in Nigerian University Libraries

S/N	Problem encountered	NO OF RESPONDENT	PERCENTAGE
1	Inadequate funding	16	33.3%
2	Automation at infancy level	5	10.4%
3	Epileptic power supply	14	29.2%
4	Technical known how	4	8.3%
5	Lack of search skills	6	12.5%
6	Others	3	6.3%
	Total	48	100%

Source: field survey 2013

 

The most serious problem militating against the application of ICT resources in the Nigerian University Library was inadequate funding by the government and some of the parents organizations of the private owned universities which attracted 16 (33.3%) responses by the respondents. Followed by epileptic power supply which attracted 14 (29.2%) respondents; while lack of search skills attracted 6 (12.5%) responses from the respondents; 5 (10.4%) respondents indicates automation at infancy level and other i.e. 3 (6.3%) of the respondents. The other reason include apathy attitudes of library staff to develop

Themselves, relapse to computer literacy due to lack of ICT facilities to practice with and lack of importance/recognition attached to the library. Yet other reasons given by respondents include time constraints due to crowded office schedules, financial problem encountered by Library staff, inadequate personnel on the ground to go for training, and inadequate unreliable ICT infrastructure.

 

Table 17: Suggestions for improvement on ICT reasons in Nigerian University Libraries

S/N	SUGGESTION	NO OF RESPONDENT	PERCENTAGE
1	Adequate	23	47.9%
2	System upgrade	4	8.3%
3	Evolution of automation facilities	14	29.2%
4	Adequate training by management of libraries	7	14.6%
5	Total	48	100%

 

Source: field survey 2013

 

The responses obtained from the respondents as reflected on table 17 regarding the suggestions for improving on the provision of adequate funding which was suggested by 23 respondents representing 47.9%. In the same vein, 14 (29.2%) respondents solicited for the evaluation of automation facilities of the Nigerian University Libraries so that its general information seeking patrons/clientele can benefit enormously from it. 7 (14.6%) respondents opined that adequate training by management of the

Nigerian University Libraries should be provided for their staff in order to be able to render effective services to their patrons/clientele without relying heavily on a specific staff that has an competent skills or knowledge in the operations of the ICT resources 4 respondents representing 8.3% were clamoring for system upgrade to enable them meet up with current trend in

this technological age.

 

3.3  DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS

As regards to the responses of the respondents, the researchers while conducting this study made do with professional and Para-professional staff of John Harris Library (UNIBEN) and Benson Idahosa University Library (BIU). The data collected through the Questionnaire administered shows that the respondents that properly filled their questionnaires were 48 out of the 49. Put

differently, 48 copies of the Questionnaire were retrieved and analyzed. In view of the aforementioned, the responses given by the respondents shows that John Harris University Library (UNIBEN) and Benson Idohaosa University library (BUI) is automated and the kind of software they apply in computerization/automation process is strategic library Automation Management (SLAM). It was revealed that only three divisions of both university libraries understudy are automated viz. Readers Service Division, Technical Service Division and Collection Development Division. In section D, regarding the response of the respondents, it can be deduced clearly or in a lucid manner that ICT have impacted enormously Via its

effectiveness on the operation and services of the University libraries understudy, which corroborates with the view of patra (2008) which states that, The digital revolution driven by ICT innovation has transformed academic libraries fundamentally, it has impacted on every sphere of academic library. The academic libraries traditional role of information custodian has been reduced to that of being one of many information providers and finally ICT have changed library and information services globally of supporting these view Rana (2009) opines that ICT holds the key to the success of modernizing information services, not only does ICT introduces new ways of information handling, it also bring about change in the structure of information and its communication.

Table 13 shows that the means by which the staff of the university library under study acquiring ICT skill were via staff-in-house training, self-study, formal training and trial and error. It was discovered that the least of staff that acquired this skills are through in house- training of staff; supporting the view Edem (2008) aptly proffers that short computer training and retraining

programs should be organized from time to time to assist librarians or library staff who do not have the wherewithal to update their knowledge and computer skills. This will also aid awareness of computer potentials and capacities. Table 15 reveals the factors militating against the application of ICT in the

Nigerian University libraries understudy. In regards to the vivid response of the respondents, it was ascertain by the researcher that poor funding and epileptic power supply is the major factors acting as a drawback or an impediment to the application of ICT in Nigerian University Libraries supporting this findings is the opinion of Ebijuwa (2005) opines that Electricity which must be available for 24 hours of the day is one of the basic problem that Nigeria has with infrastructural facilities. In its view she further stated that its epileptic nature and the constant power cut without notice do not make for the growth of viable ICT programme. In the same vein Edem (2005) proffers solution to the problem that effective and efficient power supply supplemented by standby generator should be provided to check the menace of frequent electric power failure. Also adding to this view Odion and Adetona (2009) also proffers solution to the problem of inadequate fund, that, more generous financial support should be made available to provide the basic infrastructural amenities or facilities. Other inhibiting factors indicated by the respondent are automation at infancy level, technical know how, lack of search skills. Inadequate personnel on the ground to go for training, apathy or lackadaisical attitudes of library staff etc.

CHAPTER FIVE

5.0  SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION   

RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1 INTRODUCTION

The primary aim of this research work is to ascertain the impact of ICT Nigerian University Libraries. The chapter elucidates the summary of findings, recommendations and conclusions. As no research is ever perfect, the limitations of the study are highlighted and suggestions for further research made.

5.2  SUMMARY OF FINDINGS

Arising from this research are the following the following findings:

1. The female respondents were more than the male respondents.
2. The respondent between the age range of 25-56 year and above, but the respondent between the ages of 36-45 years were highly populated compare to others.
3. Majority of the respondents had OND/NCE/Diploma and ND Certificate.
4. Both University libraries understudy are computerized/automated, and both of them apply Strategic Library Automation Management (SLAM) in their libraries.
5. Only three divisions of the library are computerized/automated, which are readers services division, technical service division and collection development division.
6. The ICT resources mostly used by respondents, were CD-ROM, online database, World Wide Web and the Internet.
7. The major reason attached to the use of ICT resources by the respondent is – storage and retrieval of information.
8. ICT has impacted enormously, base on its effectiveness on the Nigerian University Libraries.
9. The respondents had not been assisted in the area of training and retraining by management.
10. Respondents agreed that Capacity Building (DB) by way of Staff training in librarianship and ICT would go a long way in keeping librarianship profession at the top edge especially in this epoch of globalization. The factors acting as impediments to the impact of ICT on Nigerian University Libraries were inadequate funding which has given birth to some other problems e.g. automation at infancy level, lack of training facilities, lack of competent search skill on the side of the library staff at both strategic and operational level. And some that are also caused by the government for example epileptic power supply which has become a thorn in the flesh of an average Nigerian organization or establishment which also disrupts or acts as a breakdown to computers. Also interrupted network caused by poor electronic gadgets and so many others that also hinders the positive impact of ICT on Nigerian University Libraries. Respondents were given opportunities to air their view in regards to the areas in which Nigerian University Libraries need further improvement. Most of the respondents suggested adequate funding of Nigerian University Libraries, some of the respondents also suggested evaluation of automation facilities, system upgrade and adequate training of staff by management of the Nigerian University Libraries. So as to enable them cope with the current trend or the new technological revolution.

 

5.3 RECOMMENDATIONS

Arising from the findings and conclusion are the following recommendations.

1. More generous financial support should be made available to provide the basic ICT infrastructural facilities,
2. Since Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has come to stay, library staff that are not computer literate should take positive steps to remedy their deficiencies so as to flow along with the reforms. By this, library and information services will become ennobled through the acquisition of adequate ICT knowledge/skill and its full application in Nigerian University Libraries or else they will become irrelevant in this era of ICT.

iii.   Effective and efficient power supply supplemented with standby generators should be provided to check the menace of frequent electricity power failure. In the same vein, the government should address the problem of erratic power supply more seriously not through military order but through research and development.

1. The assistant of some donor agencies such as Education Trust Fund (ETF) and Open Society Initiative for West Africa must be actively enlisted (OSIWA).
2. Every division of the Nigerian academic libraries should be automated in order to facilitate and create an avenue for effective services.
3. Short computer training and retraining programs should be organized from time-to-time to assist Librarians who do not have knowledge and computer skills. This will also aid awareness of computer potentials and capabilities.

vii. Orientation programs on the use of computer for information retrieval should be conducted and made compulsory for new entrants into the profession.

viii. Imported ICT equipments should be tax free.

5.4 CONCLUSION

The inevitable conclusion that the researchers have arrived at in this study is that ICT has fulfilled its promise in academic libraries, there is remarkable rise in the use of ICT, many of the libraries activities are now ICT driven. This has led to the speed on acquisition, processing, storage, retrieval and dissemination operations. ICT has also help to curb the problem of information explosion in this information era.

5.5 LIMITATION OF THE STUDY AND SUGGESTIONS FOR FURTHER RESEARCH.

Although conscious efforts have been made to ensure that the data was valid and findings are reliable, nevertheless there could be some errors. These include the use of a sample of two university libraries in Nigeria. The short coming among others in the design and the execution of this research work lies on the scarcity of resources in the form of financial constraints, time constraint and materials needed for the project work. They were not easy to come by. Furthermore this research does not claim comprehensives; therefore the areas have been suggested as areas for further research to fill whatever gaps this project has left.

1. The impact of ICT on schools: classroom design and curriculum Delivery.
2. Complementing information and communication technologies with

traditional librarianship skills for effective library service.

iii    A survey of the availability of information and communication technology in academic libraries in Nigeria.

THE QUESTIONER

Please indicate your answer by ticking in the corresponding box or commence on where necessary.

• Everyday new technology advances affect the way information handled in labara?
• yes (b)
• The impacts of new technologies are felt by libraries in every day aspect?
• Yes (b) No
• The academic library has been its inception an integral part of institutions of higher learning?
• Yes (b)No
• Introduction of various information technology (ICT) trends has lead to reorganized change in work pattern?
• Yes (b) No
• New tools for dissemination of information and shift from physical to virtual service environment and extinction?
• yes (b) No

6)  John Harris library began with the promulgation of the institute of technology edict in 1970?

(a) Yes              (b) No

• Male staff forms are the minority of the staff in both libraries?
• Yes (b)  No
• Female staff from are the majority of the staff in both library?
• Yes (b) No
• ICT has impacted enormously, base on its effectiveness on the Nigerian University library?
• Yes (b) No

 

• Lack of competent search skill on the side of the library staff at both strategic and operational level?
• Yes (No)
• Majority of the respondents had OND/ NCE, DPLOMA and ND?
• Yes (b)  No

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