Libraries at University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Abstract
In Nigeria, open and distance learning has become widely accepted. Even though there are a myriad of educational problems, workers, politicians, school leavers, and the public are finding the distance learning system a convenient and flexible mode to acquire education.
Libraries are indispensable in every facet of higher education. Adequate library support for distance learners is mandatory for the qualitative delivery of instruction and learning. The development of hybrid libraries has definite benefits for distance learners. It is imperative to create virtual learning environments and libraries without borders to reach multitudes of learners at various locations.
Several institutions are approved to run distance learning. Eight distance-learning university libraries were purposively selected to examine the status of hybrid library services aimed at reaching distance learners. These include the Federal University of Technology Library, Minna, University of Maiduguri Library, University of Abuja Library, Ahmadu Bello University Library Zaria, National Open University of Nigeria Library, Olabisi Onabanjo University Library, Ago-Iwoye, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education Library, Port Harcourt and Joseph Ayo Babalola University Library. The objectives of the study were to determine the status of library services in ODL institutions in Nigeria, analyse the form of library service most suitable to distant learners in Nigeria, examine the challenges confronting distance learning in Nigeria and determine the challenges in providing timely library services to distant learners in Nigeria.
This paper examines the penetration of distance learning in Nigeria and the suitability of hybrid library services provided to distant learners. It examines the challenges in creating and delivering well-integrated and functional library services for distance education and the prospects of a hybrid library in a developing country like Nigeria