Volume 17, No.1, 2021

Title Page

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Contents

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Contributors

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Editorial Comment

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TRAINING NEEDS FOR ACADEMIC LIBRARIANS IN DIGITAL LIBRARY ENVIRONMENT IN NIGERIA

Abstract
This study focused on the training needs for Academic Librarians in Digital Library Environment. The research objective set for this study is to identify the training needs for academic librarians in Nigeria. The study utilized the library research approach which relied on secondary data sourced from articles, journals and publications for analysis. Findings showed that the training needs for Academic Librarians in Digital library Environment include interpersonal communication, management knowledge, professional (traditional core skill of Librarianship), Technical skills, Information Technology (particularly on Computer and Communication Network Technology) and acquisition of digital facilities in the library. Finally, it was recommended that academic librarian should have up-date knowledge to meet with the current library trends on digitalization in order to enable effective delivery of digital services to clients in the libraries and also library management should mandate all Academic librarians to undergo ICTs Digital training particularly in computer and communication network technology. Keywords: Academic Librarian, Digital Library Environment, Training Needs

ADEJO, Alhaji Augustine (Ph.D)

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ATTITUDE OF SECONDARY SCHOOL TEACHER- LIBRARIANS TOWARDS INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (IT) FOR EFFECTIVE INFORMATION DELIVERY IN ENUGU STATE SECONDARY SCHOOLS

Abstract
This paper investigates the attitude of secondary school teacher librarians towards information technology (IT) for effective information delivery in Enugu State. A descriptive survey research design was adopted to gather information from fifteen (15) teacher librarians from fifteen Secondary Schools in Enugu State. The research questions were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages and mean scores. Findings reveal that there is a remarkable availability of information technology resources in the secondary school libraries investigated. The findings also showed that there are a good number of training programmes available for teacher librarians. In addition, it was gathered from responses that the audio visual skills and multimedia skills are not available for training programmes. The attitude of teacher librarians towards information technology is quite positive and encouraging. Lack of confidence was reported as a major problem teacher librarians face in information technology training. Other challenges include epileptic power supply, insufficient support, and inadequate supply among others. It was recommended that the school management should empower the teacher-librarian to develop their knowledge and skills both individually and collectively and also encourage teacher librarians to mentor and guide students in learning process rather than simple presenter of knowledge and keeper of libraries. Keywords: Attitude, Teacher- Librarians, Information Technology

Eze, Monica E. Ph.D, CLN, FNLA & Akpom Chinwendu.C (CLN)

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INFORMATION LITERACY SKILLS AND SEEKING STRATEGIES OF POSTGRADUATE LAW STUDENTS IN FEDERAL UNIVERSITIES OF NORTHERN NIGERIA

Abstract
The paper examined the information literacy skills and seeking strategies of postgraduate law students in federal universities in northern Nigeria with specific focus on the availability of legal information resources in the faculty of law libraries. The study employed quantitative research method using cross-sectional survey research design. The population of the study comprised of seven heads of law libraries and 1,348 registered postgraduate law students for 2016/17 academic session in the seven faculties of law of the universities studied. Simple random sampling equation (SRS-Equation) was used to calculate the sample size which consisted of 308 postgraduate law students. Thus, a total number of 308 copies of questionnaire were administered, and 271 were returned and found useful. Data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings of the study showed that the postgraduate law students under study possessed skills such as: the ability to define their information need, the ability to locate and use primary and secondary sources, and the ability to evaluate legal and non legal sources. The finding also shows that the postgraduate law students seek the resources of their libraries by asking the library staff, by checking the catalogue cards and OPAC, by asking colleagues/course mates and through Wireless Student’s User ID. Some recommendations include: the need for postgraduate law students of federal universities of Northern Nigeria to have both computer and information literacy (IL) skills in order to effectively use the rapidly growing and changing legal information resources of their libraries. Keywords: Information literacy Skills, Information Seeking Strategies, Postgraduate Law Students, Law Libraries.

Dr. Hadiza umar & Dr Hauwa Sani Ahmed

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POSITIONING NIGERIAN LIBRARIES AS AGENTS OF CHANGE THROUGH INNOVATION, ENGAGEMENT AND COMMUNICATION

Abstract
The theoretical paper examines the value of libraries in the society and the role of various types of libraries especially public and academic libraries as agents of change. The strategies that could better position libraries in Nigeria as agent of change are considered from the perspective of innovation, engagement and communication. Challenges that face libraries in Nigeria in performing the expected roles as agent include lack/low marketing of library services library advocacy among others. The paper ends by making some recommendations and advancing the United Nations‟ 17 Sustainable Development Goals as action plan through which libraries in Nigeria can further express their relevance in the area of innovation, engagement and communication. Keywords: Public Libraries, Academic Libraries, Librarians, Change Agent, Sustainable Development Goals

Ibegbulam, Ijeoma J. (Ph.D) Uzoagba, Ngozi C. & Enem, Fidelia N.

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A REVIEW OF THE TRENDS AND ISSUES IN LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE EDUCATION IN NIGERIA

Abstract
This paper reviews the growth of Library and Information Science Education in Nigeria from inception. The study reviewed what has been readily available and captured on the trends and issues in Library and Information Science Education in Nigeria. Library and Information Science has become an integral component of tertiary education and now acts as catalyst for transformation in education. Challenges and issues were examined. The paper recommends that LIS curriculum must be re-structured keeping in view the new technological trends in the profession and demand of job market in digital era; that workshops and laboratories in Nigerian library schools should be upgraded to acceptable standard with necessary facilities put in place; efforts should be made to promote collaboration opportunities in LIS education, and the problem of shortage of manpower in the LIS schools should be addressed by appointing qualified Library science Educators to improve the staffing level in the LIS schools. The paper concluded that if proper management of human, financial and material resources was achieved then the librarians will be relied upon for national development. Key words: Library and Information Science, LIS Education, Library Schools.

Hamza Mohammed Mustapha Idris & Hasiya Salihu Yusuf

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ROLE OF LIBRARIES IN PROMOTION OF HEALTH INFORMATION FOR ADDRESSING HEALTH EMERGENCIES

Abstract
The aim of this paper is to describe the role of libraries in health information promotion for addressing health emergencies in our communities. Public health events that may endanger community health are classified as public health emergencies and often deserve the attention of health experts. The paper expresses a personal view on how community libraries can partner with the health agencies in addressing and combating health emergencies. Strategies for positioning the libraries as valuable tools in health emergency and disaster crisis were also highlighted. In times of community health crisis (pandemics or epidemics) people need access to public health information. Access to health emergency information is paramount to community people especially now that we have myriad of daunting health problems such as Lassa fever, Covid-19 and other natural disasters (hurricane storm and flooding) that often ravage most communities and towns. The paper recommends that communities should be equipped, prepared and ready to manage and combat health emergencies and disasters which often occur without signs. Keywords: Libraries, Community, Health emergency, Diseases, Natural disasters Paper type: Conceptual

Obidike, N.A. Igbokwe, J.C. & Mazah Deborah

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THE INFLUENCE OF DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS OF WOMEN CROP FARMERS ON THE ACCESS TO AND USE OF AGRICULTURAL INFORMATION IN BADE AND JAKUSKO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS OF YOBE STATE

Abstract
The study investigated the influence of demographic characteristics of women on the access and use of Agricultural Information in support of their efforts to attain food security in Yobe State. The study applied quantitative methodology using survey research design. The design used questionnaire to collect information from the respondents. A sample of 388 women crop farmers’ was used to obtained data used for this study. The study revealed that majority of the women crop farmers were within the age of 20-30 years. This finding reveals that these categories of ages are in their active ages and will access and use agricultural information effectively and contribute too immensely to the food security and economic development of the State. The findings further indicated low literacy level among the women crop farmers. The findings further revealed that less than half of Women Crop Farmers in Yobe State have the experience in farming, most of the women Crop Farmers in Yobe State are poor, women Crop Farmers additional occupation was low. The study then established that there is a statistically significant correlation between the demographic characteristics of women crop farmers and their use of agricultural information. The study recommends the need for more support from Government and relevant agencies to strengthen women’s crop farming activities. They also need up-tp-date information in order to address the challenges of modern crop farming to achieve effective food security.

Laraba Kagana Muhammed & Auwalu Dansale Yahaya

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LIBRARIES AS CULTURAL HERITAGE INSTITUTIONS: ISSUES FOR LIBRARIANS

Abstract
This paper examines libraries as cultural heritage institutions and the roles of librarians as managers of cultural resources in contemporary time. It discusses the nature of cultural heritage resources and the concept of cultural heritage institutions. It also explains the roles of libraries as cultural heritage institutions and presents the public libraries and museums as partners for collaboration in the management of cultural resources. It further highlights the challenges facing the management of cultural resources in cultural heritage institutions which include the fact that cultural resources involve rich and highly heterogeneous collections that are challenging to achieve and convey to the general public; the issue of digitization, technical, financial and organizational obstacles; continuous destruction of cultural resources through vandalism, exportation of cultural resources, looting etc. Finally, some of the strategies for promoting the management of cultural resources in cultural heritage institutions include need to digitize materials as quickly as possible; identifying and prioritizing local resources that are unique, making their collections accessible, and digital technologies such as Portals, Blogs, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube etc should be used in cultural heritage institutions for easy access and effective utilisation of cultural resources. Key Words: Cultural Heritage Institutions, Public Libraries, Museums, Library Management, Cultural Resources

Ogbu,Kate Nkechinyere, Ph.D & Oche, Nathaniel Agbo, Ph.D

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INFORMATION SEEKING BEHAVIOUR OF RETIREES FROM CIVIL SERVICE IN NIGERIA

Abstract
This paper discussed the information seeking behaviour of retirees from civil service in Nigeria. The paper was introduced by a brief description of eligibility for retirement in Nigerian Civil Service. It brought to light various forms of retirement, theories of retirement and went further to highlight the information needs of the retirees. The retirees demand for information to meet their needs. The factors militating against the accessibility and availability of information infrastructure and resources were discussed and they include; high cost of internet usage, lack of maximum ease to access the library, inequality in the provision of reading materials, lack of adequate large print publishers, personal factors such as the nature of disability and inadequate finances. Recommendations were proffered and they included that the government should encourage large print publisher or establish such printing establishments; internet services should be rendered at a cheaper rate; programmes that will interest the elderly should be included in daily broadcast over the radio and television, newspaper and magazines, prompt payment of pension allowances to enable the elderly purchase information equipment or gadgets needed. Finally, the paper recommends that government and organizations should embark on compulsory counselling for pre-retirees and retirees.

Ajie Ifeoma Abigail & Omotunde Oluwatobi Iyanu

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INFORMATION NEEDS AND SEEKING BEHAVIOR OF USERS IN DR. ALIYU OBAJE LIBRARY, KOGI STATE UNIVERSITY, ANYIGBA.

Abstract
This study examined the Information Needs and seeking behavior of Users in Dr. Aliyu Obaje Library, Kogi State University, Anyigba. A descriptive survey method was used for the study. The population of the study comprises of 30 staff and 50 users of Dr. Aliyu Obaje Library, Kogi State University, Anyigba. A simple random technique was used to select the sample size. A total number of 80 copies of questionnaires were administered and retrieved. Six (6) research questions were formulated to guide the study in line with the purpose of the study. Tables, mean score and frequency percentage were used in analyzing the data. Major findings of the study revealed that the vital information needs required by the users are the information on education, agricultures, economic, political and business. The purposes for which the users seek for information in the library are for general reading, assignment, examination, and research. The search strategies adopted by the users are use of subject catalogue, shelves, library staff internet, references, CD ROM etc. The major challenges faced by users in information seeking in the library are lack of recent information, lack of search skills, poor organization of information resources, and poor library orientation. Suggestions were put forward by the users on the strategies for enhancing the information needs and behavior which are acquisition of updated materials, adequate funding, proper search skills and trained library staff.

INFORMATION NEEDS AND SEEKING BEHAVIOR OF USERS IN DR. ALIYU OBAJE LIBRARY, KOGI STATE UNIVERSITY, ANYIGBA.

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PERCEPTION OF LIBRARIANS ON IN-SERVICE TRAINING FOR ENHANCING JOB PERFORMANCE IN FEDERAL UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES IN NORTH-WEST, NIGERIA

Abstract
This study examined the perception of librarians on in-service training for enhancing job performance in federal university libraries in North-West, Nigeria. Three research questions guided the study in line with the objectives. Descriptive research design was used and the target population of three hundred and twenty-one librarians in three selected federal university libraries in North-West, Nigeria was used for the study. A close ended structured questionnaire was designed and used. Frequency counts, percentages, mean scores and standard deviation were statistical tools used for data analysis. Results showed that most of types of in-service training listed were available, most of the university libraries do not organise regular training for their personnel or sponsor librarians for training on annual basis and among others. The study recommended that university libraries should organise regular training and re-training for librarians and implore them to utilise other ways of training such as short courses, virtual conferences, workshops and seminars which are more effective and less expensive. There should be good and flexible existing training policy; conditions and requirements attached to training by the universities management should be made flexible, and staff should be motivated by regular promotion as at when due and best performing staff should be rewarded. Keywords: Enhancement, University libraries, In-services training, Job performance, Librarians, Perception, North-West Nigeria

Adamu, Mohammed Saba (CLN, MNLA, CTN), BABALOLA, GIDEON A. (Ph. D), Udoudoh, Samuel J. (Ph. D) & Yusuf, Fatima Ladan

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ASSESSMENT OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP SKILLS AMONG STUDENTS IN LIBRARY SCHOOLS IN ENUGU STATE

Abstract
This paper evaluates the entrepreneurial skills acquired by students of library schools in Enugu state after undergoing a course of study in the schools. Data were collected from final year students of the school who are considered as the target population. The analyses of data were carried out using a statistical package. The result shows that students that passed through the school did not acquire entrepreneurial skills commensurate with the thought courses in the library schools. Keywords: Entrepreneurship, Skills, Assessment, Students, library school.

Dr Ugonna B. Fidelugwuowo

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