ACQUISITION AND UTILISATION OF ELECTRONIC INFORMATION RESOURCES IN BAUCHI STATE UNIVERSITY LIBRARY
- Project Research
- 1-5 Chapters
- Abstract : Available
- Table of Content: Available
- Reference Style: Available
- Recommended for : Student Researchers
- NGN 3000
Background of the study
The acquisition and utilization of electronic information resources in academic libraries have become increasingly critical in enhancing the quality of education and research. Bauchi State University Library, like many academic libraries in developing countries, is striving to keep pace with the rapid advancements in information technology. This study investigates the acquisition and utilization of electronic information resources in Bauchi State University Library, examining the challenges and opportunities faced by the institution in providing adequate access to these resources. Several studies have highlighted the importance of electronic information resources in academic settings. For instance, Fatoki (2015) emphasized that electronic resources are essential for supporting teaching, learning, and research activities in universities, noting that their effective utilization can significantly enhance academic performance. Similarly, Okiki and Asiru (2017) identified that the availability of electronic resources in Nigerian universities has positively impacted students' academic achievements by providing them with a vast array of information that is not available in traditional print formats. However, the acquisition of these resources often presents challenges, such as funding constraints, which were discussed by Bamidele, Omeluzor, and Ukpebor (2016), who pointed out that financial limitations hinder the ability of many Nigerian universities to procure adequate electronic resources. In addition, a study by Ani, Ngulube, and Onyancha (2015) revealed that there are significant challenges related to the infrastructure necessary for accessing electronic resources, including inadequate internet bandwidth and unreliable power supply, which can impede the effective utilization of these resources. Furthermore, a comprehensive study by Salaam and Onifade (2016) found that while academic staff and students recognize the value of electronic information resources, there is often a lack of adequate training on how to effectively use these resources, resulting in underutilization. This aligns with the findings of Afolabi (2017), who noted that user education programs are crucial in ensuring that both students and faculty members can maximize the benefits of electronic resources. The study also aims to explore the strategies employed by Bauchi State University Library to overcome these challenges and enhance the accessibility and utilization of electronic information resources. The adoption of innovative approaches, such as forming consortia for resource sharing and leveraging open access resources, as suggested by Ezema and Ugwu (2016), could be instrumental in addressing some of the financial and infrastructural challenges. By examining these aspects, this study contributes to the broader understanding of how academic libraries in developing countries can effectively acquire and utilize electronic information resources, ultimately improving the educational and research outcomes of their institutions.
1.2 Statement of the problem
The proliferation of electronic information resources (EIRs) in academic libraries has significantly transformed the landscape of information acquisition and utilization in higher education institutions. However, despite the potential of these resources to enhance academic productivity and research quality, their effective acquisition and utilization remain a challenge in many Nigerian universities, including Bauchi State University. Several studies have examined the factors influencing the use of EIRs in academic libraries. For instance, Okiki and Asiru (2016) highlighted that inadequate funding and lack of infrastructure are major barriers to the effective acquisition of EIRs in Nigerian universities. Similarly, Adeniran (2017) found that the lack of digital literacy skills among students and faculty members significantly impedes the utilization of these resources. Furthermore, a study by Aina and Moahi (2019) revealed that while there is a high awareness of EIRs among students, the actual usage is relatively low due to challenges such as limited access to computers and poor internet connectivity. In a related study, Eke, Omekwu, and Odoh (2019) noted that academic libraries often face difficulties in negotiating licenses for EIRs, which affects their ability to provide comprehensive access to a wide range of resources. Additionally, Gbaje and Zakari (2020) emphasized the role of library staff training in the effective management and dissemination of EIRs, suggesting that continuous professional development is crucial for maximizing the benefits of these resources. These findings indicate a complex interplay of factors affecting the acquisition and utilization of EIRs in academic libraries, necessitating a comprehensive approach to address these challenges. Despite these insights, there is a paucity of research specifically focusing on Bauchi State University, which underscores the need for a detailed investigation into the specific barriers and opportunities associated with EIRs in this context. This study aims to fill this gap by examining the acquisition and utilisation of electronic information resources in Bauchi State University library.
1.3 Objective of the study
- To assess the types of electronic information resources available in Bauchi State University Library.
- To examine the extent Bauchi State University Library acquire electronic information resources.
- To evaluate the extent of utilization of electronic information resources by students at Bauchi State University Library.
- To identify the challenges faced by students in accessing and using electronic information resources in Bauchi State University Library.
- To examine the impact of electronic information resources on academic performance and research productivity at Bauchi State University.
1.4 Research Questions
- What types of electronic information resources are available in Bauchi State University Library?
- To what extent do Bauchi State University Library acquire electronic information resources?
- To what extent do students utilize electronic information resources in Bauchi State University Library?
- What challenges do students face in accessing and using electronic information resources in Bauchi State University Library?
- How do electronic information resources impact the academic performance and research productivity of students at Bauchi State University?
1.5 Research hypotheses
H1: The extent of acquisition of electronic information resources in Bauchi State University Library is high.
H2: The extent of utilisation of electronic information resources by students in Bauchi State University Library is high.
1.6 Significance of the study
Enhanced Academic Performance:
The study will demonstrate how the acquisition and utilization of electronic information resources can enhance the academic performance of students and faculty at Bauchi State University. By providing access to a wide range of up-to-date information, the university library can support research and learning, leading to improved academic outcomes.
Resource Management and Policy Development:
The findings will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of current library policies and practices related to electronic information resources. This can inform resource management strategies and help in the development of policies that optimize the acquisition, accessibility, and utilization of these resources.
Informed Decision-Making:
University administrators and library management can use the results of this study to make informed decisions regarding budget allocation, resource acquisition, and infrastructure development. Understanding the impact and usage patterns of electronic resources will guide future investments and improvements.
Technological Integration and Innovation:
The study will highlight the importance of integrating modern technology in academic libraries. It will showcase how electronic information resources contribute to innovation in research methodologies and educational practices, promoting a culture of technological advancement within the university.
Benchmarking and Comparative Analysis:
The research will serve as a benchmark for other academic institutions in Nigeria and beyond. By providing a detailed analysis of the acquisition and utilization of electronic information resources at Bauchi State University, other universities can compare their practices and adopt successful strategies to enhance their own library services.
1.7 Scope of the study
This study focuses to assess the types of electronic information resources available in Bauchi State University Library, evaluate the extent of utilization of electronic information resources by students at Bauchi State University Library, identify the challenges faced by students in accessing and using electronic information resources in Bauchi State University Library, examine the impact of electronic information resources on academic performance and research productivity at Bauchi State University. Hence Librarians and students of Bauchi State University shall serve as enrolled participants for this study.
1.8 Limitation of the study
Like in every human endeavour, the researchers encountered slight constraints while carrying out the study. The significant constraint are:
Time: The researcher encountered time constraint as the researcher had to carry out this research along side other academic activities such as attending lectures and other educational activities required of her.
Finance: The researcher incurred more financial expenses in carrying out this study such as typesetting, printing, sourcing for relevant materials, literature, or information and in the data collection process.
Availability of Materials: The researcher encountered challenges in sourcing for literature in this study. The scarcity of literature on the subject due to the nature of the discourse was a limitation to this study.
1.9 Definition of terms
Electronic Information Resources:
Digital materials such as e-books, e-journals, online databases, and other digital formats that can be accessed electronically via computers or other electronic devices. These resources provide a vast array of information for academic and research purposes.
Library Acquisition:
The process by which a library obtains materials, including electronic information resources, through purchase, subscription, or licensing agreements. This process ensures that the library has the necessary resources to support its users.
Utilization:
The act of using or making practical and effective use of something. In this context, it refers to how students, faculty, and other library users engage with and make use of electronic information resources for their academic and research activities.
Information Literacy:
The ability to identify, locate, evaluate, and effectively use information. Information literacy is a crucial skill for academic success, enabling users to navigate and make the best use of electronic information resources available in the library.
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