Cross-sectional study on the computerization of academic libraries in Nigeria

Abstract

Computerization is critical to the success of today’s 21st century libraries. Studies have investigated some factors associated with automation of libraries in Nigeria. This study however, investigated computerization of academic libraries in Nigeria from the perspective of library personnel. The descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. Multi-Stage sampling method was used in this study. The instrument used for data collection was questionnaire titled: Computerization in Academic Libraries (CAL). The instrument was validated using construct and face validity. Cronbach’s test was used to determine the reliability of the main constructs, 162 copies of the questionnaire (92.7%) were returned and adjudged usable. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings on level of computerized services in academic libraries revealed that cataloguing and circulation have a high level of automated services; bindery and serial section has low level of computerized services. Further result on frequency of use of automated services revealed that library loan services and OPAC were daily use while internet and digital communication withcolleagues and patron were occasionally used. However, result on the amount of acceptance of library personnel base on perceived usefulness revealed that information on library automated system are current and up to date. Also, perceived ease of use result revealed it's easy to recollect the way to perform task using library automated system. Result revealed that computerization helps to enhance efficiency on librarians work. KOHA and EBSCOHOST were the most available database while OPAC and e- journal were the foremost available electronic resources in academic libraries. Slow internet and funding among others were factors negating the implementation and use of computerization in libraries. Also, the findings revealed that there is a significant relationship between perceived usefulness and usage of computerized services at (r = .456, P<0.01) while there is no significant relationship of perceived usefulness and usage of computerized services at (r = .022, P> 0.01). - The study’s finding is not limited to the level of computerization in libraries but how it can be used to provide the needed information and services to the user’s and the library operations. It’s recommended that Libraries should endeavor to digitalize all sections in the library and funding of the project in libraries should be of upmost importance to the management of educational institutions.