THE ROLES OF LIBRARIES IN PROMOTING DIGITAL LITERACY AMONG STUDENT IN SA'ADU ZUNGUR UNIVERSITY, BAUCHI.

THE ROLES OF LIBRARIES IN PROMOTING DIGITAL LITERACY AMONG STUDENT IN SA'ADU ZUNGUR UNIVERSITY, BAUCHI.

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Background of the Study

The concept of digital literacy has gained increasing importance in the 21st century, particularly in the realm of higher education. Digital literacy encompasses a broad set of skills that enable individuals to find, evaluate, and use information through digital means (Ng, 2015). These competencies go beyond mere computer usage, integrating critical thinking, information literacy, and the ability to engage effectively with digital technologies. In this context, libraries play a crucial role in fostering digital literacy among students, equipping them with essential skills needed for academic success and participation in a digital world.

University libraries, as knowledge hubs, have always been instrumental in supporting students’ academic development. However, with the shift towards digitalization in academic research and learning, their role has expanded significantly. Libraries now serve as facilitators of digital literacy by providing access to digital resources such as e-books, online journals, databases, and digital learning tools (Bawden & Robinson, 2017). Libraries at institutions such as Sa’adu Zungur University, Bauchi, are increasingly expected to offer not only access to these resources but also the skills required to navigate and utilize them effectively. The advent of digital technologies has transformed the way libraries operate, transitioning from traditional repositories of print materials to dynamic, digital-rich environments.

The growing importance of digital literacy can be attributed to the rapid digitization of resources and the increasing reliance on information and communication technologies (ICT) for academic work. In higher education, digital literacy is not only a critical component for academic success but also for students' future employability. According to research by Lankshear and Knobel (2015), digital literacy is an essential skill that aligns with the demands of the contemporary job market, where employers prioritize the ability to work with digital tools and information systems. Therefore, university libraries must evolve their services to meet these emerging needs, offering programs and workshops that promote digital literacy among students.

However, promoting digital literacy within university settings, particularly in regions like Bauchi State, Nigeria, is not without challenges. Limited access to digital infrastructure, inadequate funding, and a lack of skilled library staff can hinder the effectiveness of these efforts. Moreover, some students may face challenges such as digital illiteracy, particularly those from rural areas or underprivileged backgrounds (Koltay, 2017). In light of these issues, it becomes imperative to investigate how libraries, especially at Sa'adu Zungur University, contribute to the promotion of digital literacy, exploring the strategies they employ, the challenges they face, and the impact of their efforts on students.

Additionally, studies have shown that libraries in Nigerian universities, while making strides in digital resource provision, still face significant challenges in promoting digital literacy. According to Oyedemi and Adebayo (2016), many Nigerian universities, including those in rural areas, lack adequate ICT infrastructure, thus hampering efforts to enhance digital literacy. This calls for more focused efforts on the part of universities and their libraries to address these limitations and support students in developing the digital competencies needed to thrive in academic and professional environments.

The role of university libraries extends beyond merely providing access to digital tools and resources. They are tasked with creating an enabling environment where students can develop information-seeking skills, navigate the complexities of digital resources, and critically assess the information they encounter (Pinto et al., 2020). In this regard, the library at Sa’adu Zungur University, Bauchi, is positioned to be a catalyst for the development of digital literacy among students, thereby fostering a culture of academic excellence and critical thinking in the digital age.

As libraries continue to embrace digital transformation, there is a growing recognition of the need for librarians to acquire the skills necessary to teach digital literacy. According to Gross and Latham (2017), librarians must adopt a pedagogical role in promoting digital literacy, integrating instructional strategies that enhance students’ digital competencies. This shift underscores the need for libraries to not only serve as resource centers but also as educators in digital literacy, providing training and support for both students and staff.

The role of libraries in promoting digital literacy among university students is multifaceted and increasingly crucial in today’s digital world. Libraries like that of Sa’adu Zungur University, Bauchi, are essential in bridging the digital divide, equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the vast digital landscape. By understanding the current state of digital literacy promotion within the university library and the challenges faced, this study seeks to highlight strategies for enhancing digital literacy and fostering academic growth among students.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Digital literacy has become an indispensable skill in today's educational landscape, yet many students, particularly in developing regions like Bauchi State, Nigeria, struggle with acquiring the necessary competencies to thrive in a digital environment. Despite the increasing availability of digital resources in university libraries, there is a noticeable gap in the ability of students to effectively access, evaluate, and use these resources for academic and personal development. This challenge is particularly evident in institutions like Sa’adu Zungur University, where limited digital infrastructure, inadequate training programs, and varying levels of digital literacy among students impede their full utilization of library resources.

Furthermore, while libraries are tasked with promoting digital literacy, many face constraints such as limited financial resources, insufficient staff training, and outdated technologies, which further hinder their ability to meet students' needs. Students often lack awareness of the digital tools available to them and the skills necessary to engage with these resources meaningfully (Adeniran, 2018). This study, therefore, seeks to examine the role of the Sa’adu Zungur University Library in promoting digital literacy, addressing the existing gaps, and identifying solutions to improve students’ access to and use of digital resources.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The objectives of this study are as follows:

1. To examine the current level of digital literacy among students at Sa’adu Zungur University, Bauchi.

2. To explore the role of the university library in promoting digital literacy among students.

3. To assess the digital resources and services available in the university library.

4. To identify the challenges faced by the library in promoting digital literacy.

5. To suggest strategies for enhancing digital literacy promotion in the university library.

1.4 Research Questions

The research questions guiding this study are:

1. What is the current level of digital literacy among students at Sa’adu Zungur University?

2. How does the university library contribute to promoting digital literacy among students?

3. What digital resources and services are available in the university library?

4. What challenges does the university library face in promoting digital literacy?

5. What strategies can be employed to enhance digital literacy promotion in the university library?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

The following hypotheses are proposed for this study:

1. There is a significant relationship between the availability of digital resources in the library and the digital literacy level of students.

2. The level of digital literacy among students at Sa’adu Zungur University is influenced by their access to library services.

3. There are significant challenges faced by the university library in promoting digital literacy.

4. The digital literacy programs offered by the library significantly enhance students' academic performance.

5. There is a positive correlation between students' awareness of digital tools and their effective use of library resources.

1.6 Significance of the Study

The study holds both practical and theoretical significance. From a practical perspective, it will provide insights into how university libraries, particularly that of Sa’adu Zungur University, can better support students in developing digital literacy skills. As digital literacy becomes increasingly important for academic success and future employment, this study will highlight the critical role that libraries play in ensuring that students are equipped to meet these challenges. The findings will offer valuable recommendations for university administrators, librarians, and policymakers on how to improve the digital infrastructure and services offered by libraries to promote digital literacy.

From a theoretical standpoint, this study will contribute to the existing body of knowledge on digital literacy in higher education, particularly in developing regions like Nigeria. It will build upon previous studies that have explored the role of libraries in promoting information literacy and expand the focus to include digital competencies in the context of university education. The study will also provide a framework for future research on the relationship between library services and digital literacy development in higher education.

1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study

This study focuses on the role of the Sa’adu Zungur University Library in promoting digital literacy among students. It will assess the availability of digital resources, the strategies employed by the library to enhance digital literacy, and the challenges faced in these efforts. The study is limited to the students and library staff of Sa’adu Zungur University, Bauchi. While the findings may offer insights into similar contexts, the scope is restricted to this specific institution.

The limitations of the study include potential difficulties in obtaining data due to the varying levels of digital literacy among respondents. Furthermore, the availability of digital resources may fluctuate during the study period, which could impact the findings. Time constraints and limited access to certain academic materials may also pose challenges.

1.8 Operational Definition of Terms

1. Digital Literacy: The ability to effectively use digital tools, technologies, and resources to find, evaluate, and communicate information.

2. Information Literacy: The skills required to locate, evaluate, and use information effectively, often considered a subset of digital literacy.

3. Digital Resources: Electronic materials such as e-books, online databases, and journals that are accessible through digital platforms.

4. Library Services: A range of services provided by the library, including access to digital resources, research assistance, and educational workshops.

5. ICT (Information and Communication Technology): Technologies used for accessing, transmitting, and storing information, including computers, the internet, and mobile devices.

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