Samaru Journal of Information Studies

Assessment of the utilization of electronic resources by cadets in military and police academy libraries in North-West Nigeria

2026-08-21T19:45:03+00:00

The study investigated the assessment of utilization of electronic resources by Cadets in Military and Police Academy Libraries in North-West Nigeria. The objectives of the study were to find out the types of electronic resources are utilized, uncover the purpose of electronic resources utilization and the level of electronic resources utilization by cadets in military and police academy libraries in North-West, Nigeria. This study adopted a descriptive survey research design involving 4,027 cadets from the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) and the Nigeria Police Academy (POLAC). A sample of 364 respondents was selected using Taro-Yamane’s formula and proportionate stratified sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Findings revealed that cadets utilize a variety of electronic resources, with e books, e journals, and e dictionaries being the most frequently used. The overall mean score for the purposes of utilization was 2.99, indicating that cadets generally use electronic resources for academic assignments, knowledge enhancement, and examination preparation. The overall level of utilization recorded a mean of 2.78, suggesting a high level of utilization. Despite this, utilization of specialized resources such as OPAC, Web-OPAC, and institutional repositories remains low. The study concludes that while general utilization is high, gaps exist in the effective use of advanced electronic resources, recommending the need for improved awareness, training, and infrastructure.

Assessment of students’ awareness, perception and utilization of the freedom of information act in Akanu Ibiam federal polytechnic, Unwana, Ebonyi State, Nigeria

2026-08-21T19:48:06+00:00

This study examined the awareness, perception, and utilization of the Freedom of Information (FoI) Act among Library and Information Science (LIS) and Office Technology and Management (OTM) students in Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic Unwana. The study adopted a descriptive survey design with a population of 151 students. Total enumeration sampling was used. A structured Google Forms-designed close-ended questionnaire was used to collect data, from which 128 students responded. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that the level of awareness of the FoI Act among the students is generally low, as most respondents demonstrated limited knowledge of their rights, the provisions, and the practical applications of the Act. However, the study found that students have a generally positive perception of the FoI Act, recognizing its role in promoting accountability and access to information, as well as its relevance to their academic and professional development. Despite this positive perception, the extent of utilization of the FoI Act was found to be low, as most students rarely use it for research, monitoring government programmes, or assessing institutional compliance. The study identified challenges such as bureaucracy, lack of institutional awareness programmes, absence of digital platforms for submitting requests, among others. The study concludes that there is a significant gap between awareness, perception, and utilization of the FoI Act among students. It recommends the integration of FoI-related content into academic curricula, increased sensitization programmes, and the adoption of digital platforms to enhance the effective utilization of the Act.

Influence of organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) on knowledge sharing practices (KSP) among academic staff in selected higher education institutions in Kwara State, Nigeria

2026-08-21T20:10:12+00:00

This study investigated the influence of organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) on knowledge sharing practices (KSP) among academic staff in selected higher education institutions (HEIs) in Kwara State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study examined the levels of OCB and KSP, determined the relationship between OCB and KSP, and assessed the relative contributions of OCB dimensions to knowledge sharing practices. A quantitative survey research design was adopted using a structured and validated questionnaire administered to academic staff in three selected universities representing federal, state, and private ownership categories: University of Ilorin, Kwara State University, Malete and Al-Hikmah University. A sample size of 425 respondents was selected through stratified sampling, while 409 valid responses were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed a high level of organizational citizenship behavior and a moderately high level of knowledge sharing practices among academic staff in the selected institutions. A significant positive relationship was found between OCB and KSP, indicating that higher levels of citizenship behavior enhance collaborative knowledge exchange among academic staff. Furthermore, courtesy, civic virtue, and conscientiousness significantly contributed to knowledge sharing practices, whereas altruism and sportsmanship showed no significant contribution. The study concludes that strengthening specific dimensions of organizational citizenship behavior can enhance knowledge sharing practices in higher education institutions. It recommends supportive leadership practices, collaborative institutional policies, and structured mechanisms for promoting knowledge sharing among academic staff. The study recommended that development and Implementation of policies that foster collegiality, mutual respect and brings about professional collaboration among academics has to be put in place.

Space managment for effective information services provision in Kashim Ibrahim Library, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

2026-08-21T20:16:53+00:00

Effective management of physical spaces in academic libraries is essential for the delivery of quality information services. This study investigated physical space management for information services provision in Kashim Ibrahim Library, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria. The objectives of the study were to: (1) identify the types of physical spaces available for information services provision, and (2) determine the types of information services that require physical spaces in the library. A quantitative research design with descriptive survey approach was adopted. The study population comprised all 183 library staff, and total enumeration sampling technique was used. A self-structured questionnaire was employed for data collection, and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistics including frequencies and percentages. The findings revealed that fifteen of the nineteen physical space types examined were available to all respondents, including spaces for resource processing, reference services, circulation, reading, conferencing, serials, exhibitions, research support, and user conveniences. Spaces for archival resources (32.9 percent) and tea or coffee facilities (38.4 percent) were the least available. Regarding information services, seven services, including reference, reserve, administrative, media and publicity, serial, research and bibliographic, and circulation were identified by all respondents as requiring physical space for effective delivery. On the other hand, online information services (8.5 percent) and recreational services (8.5 percent) were perceived as largely independent of physical space. The study concludes that while Kashim Ibrahim Library possesses many essential physical spaces, a critical gap exists in archival space provision which threatens research support capacity. Recommendations include creating dedicated archival spaces, strengthening regular maintenance protocols, and institutionalizing staff involvement in space-related decision-making.

Cyberloafing behaviour among library and information science undergraduate students in universities in South-West, Nigeria

2026-08-21T20:20:30+00:00

The study assessed the cyberloafing behaviour of Library and Information Science (LIS) undergraduate students in universities in Osun State, Nigeria. The objectives of the study were to identify the kinds of cyberloafing activities, ascertain the frequency of cyberloafing indulgent and determine the factors responsible for LIS undergraduates’ engagement in cyber loafing in universities in South-west, Nigeria. Quantitative method was employed with the descriptive survey design. The study population consisted of 388 undergraduate students spreading across 100-300 level in the two selected universities. Total enumeration technique was employed to cover all the 388 LIS undergraduates at the levels. An adapted questionnaire was used for data collection and the study relied on descriptive and inferential statistics for data analysis. The findings showed that LIS undergraduates periodically engage in cyberloafing activities such as visiting social networking sites, playing online games, taking pictures and posting on status, silently creating online contents during class hours. Factors identified as the cause of these actions were connected to the lecturers, students, course and environment. The hypothesis tested indicated no significant disparity in cyberloafing behaviour among LIS undergraduates in the two universities. The study exhibited that cyberloafing is a common phenomenon among LIS undergraduates in the two universities studied. The need for the adoption of more interactive and technology-integrated teaching strategies to deter classroom distraction was recommended.

Effect of staff turnover on library operations and services in polytechnic libraries in Abia and Ebonyi States, Nigeria

2026-08-21T20:23:57+00:00

This study examined staff turnover variables and their implications for library operations and service delivery in polytechnic libraries in Abia and Ebonyi States, Nigeria. The study was guided by two specific objectives: to identify the factors influencing staff turnover in these libraries and to determine the impact of turnover on library operations and services. A quantitative methodology and a descriptive survey research design was adopted. The population comprised 110 staff members across the polytechnic libraries studied, and a census sampling technique was employed to include all respondents. Data was collected using a structured closeended questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Findings revealed that several factors contribute to staff turnover, including limited career advancement opportunities, poor remuneration, inadequate motivation, unfavorable work environments, poor work-life balance, negative professional image, and disparities in salary structures. The study also found that staff turnover significantly affects library operations, leading to shortages of experienced and competent personnel, increased workload for remaining staff, reduced service quality, higher recruitment and training costs, disruptions in organizational structure, and decreased job productivity. The study highlights critical implications for library management, particularly the need to address turnover proactively to ensure effective service delivery. It recommends that polytechnic libraries develop and implement comprehensive staff retention policies and welfare programmes. Additionally, management should provide equitable opportunities for career growth for both senior and junior staff and establish periodic review committees to monitor turnover trends, identify underlying causes, and address staff concerns promptly. These measures are essential for enhancing staff stability and improving overall library performance.

Application of digital literacy skills for retrieval of information resources for real time evidence-based decision making by healthcare providers in tertiary health institutions in Sokoto State

2026-08-21T20:27:46+00:00

The study investigated the application of digital literacy skills for retrieval of information resources for real time to support evidence-based decision-making by health care providers in tertiary institutions in Sokoto state Nigeria. This study aims to identify the types of ubiquitous technologies accessible to healthcare providers and to determine the level of digital literacy in using skills in accessing information resources. This study adopted a quantitative approach using a descriptive research design. Respondents were selected using simple random techniques from the two federal tertiary health institutions in Sokoto State, Nigeria. Data was collected using a self-developed structured questionnaire containing both open-ended and closed-ended items. Out of 306 questionnaires distributed, 297 were correctly completed and returned, thus giving a very satisfactory response rate. Descriptive and inferential statistical techniques were used in the analysis of data. The study found that mobile technology, Internet of Things (IoT), social media, and mobile health applications were some of the most accessible forms of ubiquitous technologies available to healthcare providers, and it indicated that healthcare providers had a moderate level of digital literacy skills. And that access to ubiquitous technologies is significantly associated with higher digital literacy skills. This research concludes that ubiquitous technology enables better access to healthcare information resources and improves evidence-based practices through effective decisionmaking. It recommends that healthcare providers‟ digital literacy skills must be upgraded regularly. There must be effective and reliable internet connectivity and technology infrastructure.

Beyond basic skills: The role of digital literacy skills in shaping students’ engagement with electronic information resources

2026-08-21T20:33:17+00:00

This study examined digital literacy skills and the utilization of electronic information resources. The study adopted a quantitative approach and employed descriptive survey design. The population consisted of 137 Library and Information Science undergraduates in Lead City University, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation). The findings revealed a generally high level of utilization of electronic information resources (x = 3.20), particularly for academic research, assignments, and self-directed learning, although participation in collaborative digital platforms such as webinars and academic forums was relatively low. The results also indicated that students possess high level of digital literacy (x = 3.17). Furthermore, the study established that digital literacy plays significant in influencing effective engagement with electronic information resources by enhancing students’ ability to locate, evaluate, and apply digital information for academic purposes. The study concludes that, while LIS undergraduates are actively utilize electronic resources, strengthening institutional support is essential for optimizing their academic performance and professional preparedness. It is recommended among others, that universities should improve digital infrastructure, integrate digital literacy training into the curriculum, and promote structured academic use of electronic resources.

Exploring the information needs of widows in academic libraries regarding spousal death benefits in Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria

2026-08-21T20:37:15+00:00

This study explores the information needs of widows associated with academic libraries in tertiary institutions in Zaria, Kaduna State, through the lens of Wilson’s (1996) Information Seeking Behaviour Model. Using a qualitative design, data were collected via semi-structured interviews with widows of staff from Ahmadu Bello University, Federal University of Education, and Nuhu Bamali Polytechnic, selected through convenience and snowball sampling. Findings revealed four primary information needs: organization-related and employment information, legal and administrative information, death certificate information, and financial information. These needs are triggered by stressors associated with the spouse’s death and mediated by institutional barriers, legal literacy, and access to formal and informal information channels. The study recommends enhancing institutional communication, providing targeted user education programs in academic libraries, and streamlining access to documentation required for claiming death benefits. The findings highlight the critical role of context-specific information in empowering widows to navigate bureaucratic and procedural complexities, underscoring the need for responsive library services and supportive institutional policies.

Policy framework and their practical application in university libraries: An insight from federal universities in North Western Nigeria

2026-08-21T20:43:02+00:00

This study examined library policy frameworks and their practical implementation in selected Federal University Libraries in North Western Nigeria. Specifically, the study identified the types of library policies available for service delivery and assessed the extent to which these policies are implemented within the selected university libraries. A quantitative research approach was adopted using a cross-sectional survey design. The population of the study consisted of 311 library staff from three Federal University Libraries in the region, and a census (total enumeration) sampling technique was employed due to the manageable size of the population. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that several library policies are available across the selected university libraries, including Collection Development Policy, Circulation Policy, Access and Inclusivity Policy, Security and Safety Policy, Privacy and Confidentiality Policy, and Collection Preservation and Conservation Policy. The study further showed that the extent of implementation of these policies varies across institutions. Circulation Policy was found to be the most highly implemented policy, while other policies such as Copyright Compliance Policy, Internet and Computer Use Policy, Social Media and Public Engagement Policy, and Interlibrary Loan Policy recorded relatively low levels of implementation. The study concludes that although university libraries possess a wide range of policy frameworks intended to guide operations and service delivery, the level of implementation is uneven across different policy areas. While some core operational policies are effectively implemented, gaps still exist in digital, regulatory, and user engagement-related policies, thereby affecting the overall efficiency of service delivery in university libraries. The study recommends that library management should strengthen the implementation of weak policy areas, particularly in copyright compliance and digital usage regulation, through regular staff training, user sensitization, and effective monitoring mechanisms. These measures will enhance policy compliance, improve service delivery, and promote responsible use of library resources.

Innovative skills and job performance of information managers in state public universities, Lagos State, Nigeria

2026-08-21T20:46:54+00:00

This study investigated the innovative skills on the job performance of Information Managers in State public universities in Lagos State, Nigeria. The objectives of the study were to assess the level of job performance and identify and identify the prevalent innovative skills of information managers in state public universities, Lagos State. Adopting a descriptive survey design and total enumeration of the population being 158, data were using a structured questionnaire an retuned by 143 respondents to assess the level of job performance and prevalent innovative skills of information managers in state public universities in Lagos state The study was anchored on Campbell model of Job Performance and Amabile Componential Theory of Creativity. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze data. Findings revealed a high level of job performance with respondents performing effectively in administrative coordination, communication and information management. Respondents demonstrated high innovative skills indicating frequent adoption of creative ideas and methods to improve office procedures. Regression results showed that innovative skills significantly predicted job performance. Study concluded that Information Managers in the state are digitally proficient, which enhances their job performance. It recommends continuous capacity building, innovative-driven practices, and improved ICT infrastructure to sustain efficiency in Job Performance.

Informational architecture of misogyny: Gender information sharing as a tool for social control in Nigerian everyday life

2026-08-21T21:10:53+00:00

This study explored the information architecture of misogyny: gendered information sharing as a tool for social control in Nigerian everyday life. Two objectives were raised which are to: explore how professional women in North West, Nigeria narrate their lived experiences of encountering and navigating gendered stereotypes in leadership spaces; identify the social channels and communicative practices stereotypes and conspiratorial narratives about women’s ambition and success are generated and disseminated in the North West, Nigeria. Populations comprised of six stereotyped academic librarians in North West, Nigeria. Qualitative research methodology and case study research design was adopted for the study. Purposive sampling technique was used to selecting six women as the sample study. Semi structured interview was used for data collection. Thematic analysis was employed for data analysis. Findings revealed that ways professional women in North West, Nigeria narrate their lived experiences of encountering and navigating gendered stereotypes in leadership spaces was through; the competence-deficit presumption and the burden of over-performance; navigating the respectability-authority tightrope: stereotypical binaries; social and kinship networks as double-edged swords; institutional gaslighting and the silencing of structural critique; and agency, reframing, and identity crafting as navigation strategies. The social channels and communicative practices stereotypes and conspiratorial narratives about women’s ambition and success are generated and disseminated in the North West, Nigeria were; social spaces, religious gatherings, acquaintances and family members. Based on findings, it concluded that that stereotyped women in professional spheres are ensnared in a self-reinforcing system of contradictory demands and penalized outcomes. From the assertiveness-affability paradox and the emotional labor mandate to the pyramid of patronage and the devaluation of intangible currency, the research illustrates how institutional and cultural mechanisms create an impossible labyrinth. It recommends among others that that stereotyped women in professional spheres are ensnared in a self-reinforcing system of contradictory demands and penalized outcomes. From the assertiveness-affability paradox and the emotional labor mandate to the pyramid of patronage and the devaluation of intangible currency, the research illustrates how institutional and cultural mechanisms create an impossible labyrinth.

Qualitative research and theoritical generalization in information management: An overview

2026-08-21T21:14:34+00:00

In information management researches, qualitative research is carried out in order to carry out in-depth study on variables. Information management researchers use themes to come with general statement. This can be used for theoretical generalization. Theoretical generalization is a type of generalization that involves drawing inferences through the use of responses that are reduced into repeated themes. The themes arise as a result of qualitative data analysis. The qualitative methods used in information management researches are ethnography, phenomenology, case study, content analysis and grounded theory. The theoretical generalization in information management researches takes place after taking the following steps of dentification of area of interest, construction of aim and objectives, review of relevant literature, choosing appropriate population, choosing appropriate samples, choosing appropriate instrument, data collection, analysis and arising of repeated themes. The themes are used to come with general statements which can be used by archivists, librarians, information users among others. It is concluded that qualitative research is very important in finding indepth information on variables in information management researches. Information management researchers use theoretical generalization, which involves developing general statements that can be applied in similar contexts. In information management researches, theoretical generalization helps in producing new knowledge that can be used for societal development.