APPLICATION OF ICT FOR RESOURCES ORGANIZATION AND SERVICE DELIVERY IN ACADEMIC LIBRARIES IN BAUCHI STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract This study is designed to determine the utilization of ICT for resources organization and service delivery in academic libraries in Bauchi State, Nigeria. The specific objectives and research questions cover the ICT facilities for resources organization, the areas in which ICT are applied for resource organization, the extent of use of ICT in organization of library resources, the challenges associated with utilization of ICT facilities in academic libraries in Bauchi state, and strategies for enhancing the effective use of ICT facilities for effective resources organization and service delivery in academic libraries in Bauchi State, Nigeria. The population of the study consists of one hundred and fifteen (115) professional and Para-professional library staff in the academic libraries under study, as follows: Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, 32; Bauchi; Bauchi State University, Gadau, 22; Abubakar Tatari Ali Polytechnic, Bauchi, 13; Federal Polytechnic Bauchi, 24; Bauchi State College of Agriculture, 5; A.D Rufa’i College of Legal and Islamic studies, Misau, Bauchi state 7; College of education Kangere, 5, and Aminu Saleh College of education, Azare, Bauchi state, 7. The researcher used all the population since it is manageable. As such, it does not require sample and sampling technique. The instrument used for data collection for the study are questionnaire and observation check list. Percentages and mean were used for data analysis. The major findings of the study revealed that out of 21 ICT resources relevant for resource organization, only 16 were available for use; five resources are not available in the academic libraries in Bauchi state. The available ones include networked computers, standalone computers, printers, scanners, Internet facilities, e-mail, CD ROM Technology, DVD ROM, Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC), projectors, library based software, and flash drives, Local Area Network (LAN), Wireless Internet Access, and Tele-facsimile equipment. The study recommended among others, making it mandatory for library personnel to be ICT oriented, increasing funding as well as training and re-training of professional and para professional staff. Good networking and maintenance culture should also be exhibited for effective utilization of ICT for resources organization and service delivery in academic libraries