Libraries at University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Date of this Version
Fall 5-28-2019
Abstract
This study was carried out to investigate the adoption of social networks media for reference services in academic libraries. Thus, the study discovered among others, the meaning of social networking media and the types of social networking media tools that can be applied in the reference section by the reference librarian for the provision of reference services in academic libraries. To achieve the objectives of this study, four (4) research questions were formulated. The study pointed out among others, that there are two major types of reference services which are: direct and indirect reference services and they are in use in academic libraries. The study also pointed out some vital Social networks media tools that can be used in the provision of reference services in meeting the needs of library users. It also discovered among others, the facilities such as computer, internet, webcam and cellphones that will enable the application of social networking media for the provision of reference services in academic libraries. The study outlined some problems that hinders the application of social networking media and they are: network bandwidth problem, lack of access to internet, unavailable power supply, lack of staff training and the problem of maintenance culture. The study concluded that the academic libraries especially the reference section should adopt the social media tools in the provision of reference services to library clientele in this era of technological explosion.