Background of the Study
Libraries are essential for higher education institutions, serving as repositories of knowledge and academic resources for students, faculty members, and researchers. However, many traditional libraries face significant challenges, including limited physical space, outdated collections, high operational costs, and difficulties in resource management (Ahmed & Usman, 2024). The transition to digital libraries has been a major development in addressing these challenges by providing electronic access to academic materials.
An open-source digital library system is a cost-effective alternative to proprietary digital libraries, allowing universities to customize and manage their library resources without incurring high licensing fees. Open-source platforms such as DSpace, Greenstone, and Koha have gained popularity in educational institutions worldwide due to their flexibility, scalability, and community-driven support (Bello & Musa, 2024). These systems enable universities to digitize, store, and distribute books, research papers, and journals efficiently.
Despite the growing adoption of digital libraries, universities in Sokoto North Local Government Area still rely largely on traditional library models, limiting students' access to up-to-date research materials and academic resources (Okonkwo & Ibrahim, 2024). The absence of a comprehensive digital library system hinders research efficiency and knowledge sharing among students and faculty members. This study seeks to implement an open-source digital library system to enhance resource accessibility, improve knowledge management, and promote academic collaboration in universities in Sokoto North.
The lack of a centralized and efficient digital library system in universities within Sokoto North Local Government Area has resulted in limited access to academic resources. Traditional libraries often suffer from resource constraints, including book shortages, restricted operating hours, and difficulties in locating specific materials (Aliyu & Danjuma, 2024). These challenges negatively impact students' learning experiences and researchers’ ability to access relevant information.
Although some universities have attempted to digitize their library resources, proprietary digital library solutions are often costly and require extensive maintenance, making them unsustainable for many institutions (Okoro & Bello, 2024). Additionally, existing digital libraries may not provide the flexibility needed to accommodate the diverse needs of students and faculty members.
By implementing an open-source digital library system, universities can benefit from an affordable, customizable, and scalable platform that enhances access to academic materials. This study aims to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of such a system in improving knowledge dissemination, reducing library management inefficiencies, and supporting research activities in universities in Sokoto North Local Government Area.
To design and implement an open-source digital library system for universities in Sokoto North Local Government Area.
To evaluate the impact of the digital library system on students’ and faculty members’ access to academic resources.
To assess the usability and efficiency of the implemented digital library system in comparison to traditional library models.
How does the open-source digital library system improve access to academic resources in universities in Sokoto North?
What is the impact of the digital library system on students’ learning and research efficiency?
How do students and faculty members perceive the usability and effectiveness of the open-source digital library system?
The open-source digital library system significantly improves access to academic resources for students and faculty members.
The implementation of the digital library system enhances students’ learning experiences and research productivity.
Students and faculty members will have a positive perception of the usability and effectiveness of the open-source digital library system.
This study is significant in addressing the limitations of traditional and proprietary digital library systems by introducing a cost-effective, open-source alternative. The findings will benefit university administrators, librarians, and policymakers by providing insights into the implementation and effectiveness of digital libraries. The system will enhance academic resource accessibility, improve knowledge management, and support digital transformation in higher education institutions in Sokoto North. Additionally, the study will contribute to the broader discussion on the role of open-source technologies in education.
This study focuses on the implementation of an open-source digital library system in universities in Sokoto North Local Government Area, Sokoto State. It evaluates the effectiveness of the system in improving access to academic resources and research efficiency. The study does not cover proprietary digital libraries or compare multiple open-source platforms. Limitations may include technological constraints, internet connectivity challenges, and user adoption issues.
Open-Source Digital Library System: A freely available and customizable platform that provides digital access to academic resources.
Academic Resources: Books, research papers, journals, and other educational materials available for students and faculty members.
Library Management System: A software application designed to catalog, organize, and manage library resources efficiently.
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Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
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