Psychological capital as predictor of research productivity of librarians in public university libraries in North-East, Nigeria

Abstract

Research productivity is one of the most important yardsticks for career progression of librarians in Nigerian university libraries. Despite its importance as a major requirement, literature have established a low level of research productivity among librarians in Nigerian university libraries. Psychological capital is crucial to enhancing research productivity of academics. However, there is a dearth of literature in relation to research productivity of librarians. Hence, this study examined psychological capital as predictor of research productivity of librarians in public university libraries in North-East, Nigeria. The study adopted survey research design. The population of this study comprised 361 librarians in public university libraries in North-East, Nigeria. A sample size of 190 respondents was determined using Taro Yamane’s formula. Stratified sampling technique was used the select respondents. A structured and validated questionnaire was used to collect data. A response rate of 79% was achieved. Data collected were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings revealed that, psychological capital (R2 = 0.004, β = 0.061, t = 0.777, p > 0.05) had no significant influence on research productivity of librarians in public university libraries in North-East, Nigeria, even though the level of psychological capital was high. The study concluded that, the level of research productivity and psychological capital of librarians were higher. Psychological capital did not predict their research productivity in this study. The study recommended that, Management of public university libraries in the North-East, Nigeria should encourage librarians to engage in writing and publishing journal articles, textbooks and other publications in order to further sustain and enhance their research productivity, Knowledge and relevance of psychological capital should be inculcated into research activities of librarians at all levels of training in order to enhance research productivity of librarians in Nigeria. Finally, university managements should provide adequate funds for librarians to attend conferences and workshops, especially in the area of research skills and research collaboration. This would enhance their research productivity and enable them to attract grants from funding agencies.