Project Abstract

Abstract
Information Communication Technology (ICT) has become a crucial component in the operations of Nigerian public academic libraries. This research aims to investigate the impact of ICT on these libraries in terms of services, resources, and user experiences. The study will explore the integration of ICT tools and systems in library functions such as cataloging, circulation, and reference services. It will also examine the extent to which ICT has enhanced the accessibility and availability of information resources in Nigerian public academic libraries. Furthermore, the research will analyze the role of ICT in improving user experiences within these libraries. This includes assessing the effectiveness of online catalogs, digital repositories, and electronic databases in facilitating information retrieval for library patrons. The study will also investigate the utilization of ICT for virtual reference services, remote access to library materials, and interactive communication with users. Moreover, the research will explore the challenges and constraints faced by Nigerian public academic libraries in adopting and implementing ICT. Factors such as inadequate infrastructure, limited funding, and staff training will be examined to provide a comprehensive understanding of the barriers to effective ICT integration in these libraries. Additionally, the study will investigate the perceptions and attitudes of library staff and users towards ICT and its impact on library services. The findings of this research will contribute to the existing literature on the impact of ICT on library services in developing countries, particularly in the context of Nigerian public academic libraries. The results will provide valuable insights for library administrators, policymakers, and stakeholders to enhance the use of ICT in improving library services and meeting the information needs of users. Recommendations based on the study's findings will be made to address challenges and maximize the benefits of ICT in Nigerian public academic libraries. In conclusion, this research will offer a comprehensive analysis of the impact of ICT on Nigerian public academic libraries, shedding light on the opportunities, challenges, and implications of technology adoption in library services. By understanding the role of ICT in transforming library operations and user experiences, this study aims to enhance the quality and effectiveness of library services in Nigeria.

Project Overview

*INTRODUCTION*

With the invention of Information and Communication Technology, libraries now use various types of technologies to aid the services they render. Everyday new technological advances affect the way information is handled in libraries and information centers. The impacts of new technologies are felt by libraries in every aspect. Computing technology, communication technology and mass storagetechnology are some of the areas of continuous development that reshape the way that libraries access, retrieve, store, manipulate and disseminate information to users. The academic library has been from its inception an integral part of institutions of higher learning, rather than an appendix or adjunct.

Oyedun (2007) defines academic libraries as those libraries that are mainly found in tertiary institutions, they are established to support learning, teaching and research processes. Over the past twenty seven years, academic libraries have been affected by changes in information and communication technology. The rate of changes is still accelerating in this area. The introduction of various information technology (ICT) trends has lead to reorganization, change in work patterns, and demand for new skills, job retraining and reclassification positions. Technological advancement of the past twenty five years, such as the electronic database, online services, CD-ROMs and introduction of internet has radically transformed access to information. Rana (2009) opines that ICT holds the key to the success of modernizing information services. Applications of ICT are numerous but mainly it is used in converting the existing paper-print records in the entire process of storage, retrieval and dissemination.

ICT has impacted on every sphere of academic library activity especially in the form of the library collection development strategies, library building and consortia. ICT presents an opportunity to provide value-added information services and access to a wide variety of digital based information resources to their clients. Furthermore, academic libraries are also using modern ICTs to automate their core functions, implement efficient and effective library cooperation and resource sharing networks, implement management information systems, develop institutional repositories of digital local contents, and digital libraries: and initiate ICT based capacity building programmes for library users.

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has brought unprecedented changes and transformation to academic library and information services, conventional LIS such as OPAC, users services, reference services, bibliographic services, current awareness services, Document delivery, interlibrary loan, Audio visual services and customer relations can be provided more efficiently and effectively using ICT, as they offer convenient time, place, cost effectiveness, faster and most-up-to-date dissemination and end users involvement in the library and information services process. The impact of ICT characterized on information services by changes in format, contents and method of production and contents and method of production and delivery of information products. Emergence of internet as the largest repository of information and knowledge, changed role of library and information science professionals from intermediary to facilitator, new tools for dissemination of information and shift from physical to virtual services environment and extinction of some conventional information services and emergence of new and innovational web based.