Records management practices in libraries of federal universities in Northwestern Nigeria

Abstract

This study was conducted to survey records management practices among library administrative staff of federal universities in Northwestern Nigeria. The study aimed at finding out the types of records generated and maintained, facilities available for storage and how their administrative records are being managed. Qualitative research methodology using narrative-based design was adopted. The sample of the study included seven administrative staff in libraries of federal universities in Northwestern Nigeria. Interview was the main instrument for data collection. Face-to-face interview was employed with the aid of semi-structured interview schedules with accompanying checklist. Data collected was analysed using thematic analysis presented in coding system. The study found out that records in both printed and electronic format are generated in the libraries studied. These records included leave application, records of disciplinary actions, periodical appraisal/promotion/confirmation records, result of physical examination, staff release & retiring records, records of Corps members posted to the library, records of internally generated revenue in the library, staff passports, staff‟s copy of employment letters, copies of staff credentials, staff shift duty roster, minutes of staff meetings, etc. Storage facilities made available for records are cupboard, file cabinet, wooden shelves, steel shelves, Drawers (for flat files), computers (for electronic storage) and top of table on a temporary basis. Challenges faced include inadequate funding, inadequate accommodation, poor electricity supply, low morale of staff, lack of training and retraining of staff, and lack of strong support from the top managerial staff.