Adoption of innovative library products and services among library and information science professionals in Nigeria

Abstract

Information and communication technology (ICT) is pertinent for the provision, management and delivery of a range of qualitative and innovative services to library users, and thus enhance skills acquisitions of library and information science (LIS) professionals. The study assessed libraries/LIS professionals’ extent of adoption of innovative library products and services, level of satisfaction and suggestions for future training experiences. The descriptive survey design of the ex-post-facto type was adopted. A structured questionnaire with a reliability index of 0.83 was used to collect data for the study. A total of 38 respondents out of 58 returned the completed questionnaire and were used for the study. Findings from the study revealed that 28 (73.7%) of the participant libraries have adopted innovative library products and services delivery. Out of this, 23 (60.5%) have adopted the concept to high extent and 3 (7.9%) have not adopted innovative products and services. Reasons for non-adoption included non-applicability of the concept to library services 27(71.1%); inadequate knowledge 4(10.5%), newly established institutions 3(7.9%); poor leadership/management 3(7.9%) and renovation 1(2.6%). The study recommended provision of enabling training supports and facilities such as broadband internet connectivity among others to upskill library information resource professionals.