Assessing the Adoption and Utilization of ICT-Based Innovations for Improved Library Services in Federal University Libraries in Northwest Nigeria

The rapid evolution of information and communication technologies (ICTs) has significantly transformed the provision of library services, necessitating academic libraries to adopt innovative tools for improved access, efficiency, and user satisfaction. This study assesses the adoption and utilization of ICT-based innovations for improved library services in federal university libraries in Northwest Nigeria. Five objectives and five research questions guided the study. This study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The study population comprised library staff, heads of ICT units and library users drawn from federal university libraries in Northwest Nigeria. Purposive sampling technique was used to select six federal universities in the zone. Within each university, 10 librarians/library staff and 10 active library users, totaling 120 respondents were selected for the study. Questionnaire was the instrument used for data collection in the study. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics using frequency, percentage tables and mean score. The study revealed that while technologies such as integrated library system, online public access catalogue, digital library/e-resources portal, and institutional repository have been adapted to varying degrees, their utilization remains hindered by inadequate funding, insufficient staff training, poor ICT infrastructure, and irregular maintenance. Nevertheless, positive attitudes towards technology adoption were observed among staff, highlighting potential for improvement with targeted intervention. The study recommends increase funding and investment; improve ICT infrastructures, capacity building and training, awareness and sensitization campaigns among others. These measures are crucial for federal university libraries in Northwest Nigeria to meet the evolving information needs of students, researchers, faculty in the digital age.