Challenges and Benefits of Institutional Repository Sustainability in Public Libraries in Nigeria

Abstract

Objective. The study investigated the challenges of Institutional Repository Sustainability in public university libraries in Nigeria. Method. A questionnaire was administered to 230 librarians from public university libraries in Nigeria. The sample of repository institutional was purposive, all registered on Open-DOAR, whether functional or non-functional. Results. The main sustainability challenges with Nigerian institutional repository were: funding, content populating, poor synergy between IT and library staff as well as lack of qualified staff, lack of sustainable Internet connectivity, electricity supply, among others. Most librarians have a doctorate and little experience in Institutional Repository Sustainability. The study also proposed recommendations for IRs. Conclusions. There is a need for a paradigm shift in the process of managing the sustainability of institutional repositories. Libraries cannot be bystanders in the economy and production of knowledge.