Libraries at University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Date of this Version
2-2011
Abstract
This study investigated the extent to which academics in science and engineering have access to research information through their university libraries. Stratified random sampling technique was used to select six universities, which were sampled from 13 Federal universities in Southern Nigeria. Purposive sample approach was used to survey academics in science and engineering faculties. In all 435 questionnaires were distributed for data collection and 291 (67%) were returned. Percentages and bar chart were used to generate data for discussion.The study revealed that Universities of Ibadan, Agriculture, Abeokuta and Nnamdi Azikiwe often have computer services in their university libraries with 83.6%, 75% and 72.4% respectively. On the other hand Universities of Benin, Uyo and Nigeria, Nsukka do not often have computer services available in their university libraries with 49.1%, 43.8% and 28.6% respectively. All the academics had much utilization of Internet with 86.6% average use. The study also showed that libraries do not frequently provide academics information needs as follows: Universities of Ibadan 32.7%, Uyo 31.3%, Benin 24.5%, Nnamdi Azikiwe 20.7%, Agriculture, Abeokuta 17.9% and Nigeria, Nsukka 15.5%. Information delivery is the major function of librarianship, to achieve this it was recommended that training of librarians and library staff in all aspect of information technology and to enable them deliver all facet of information services to users. The paper also offers possible solutions to improving of library organisation and management, through marketing of library services using hand bills, library bulletin, news letters and library orientation, user education which will improve on library services and library liaison.
Comments
Published in Library Philosophy and Practice (2011) 10 p.