The 21st century has
witnessed a turning point in the way library and information centres perform
their services. This is evident in the way ICTs have been used to transform
libraries from being “traditional” to “technology based” such that manual
processes have been automated with relevant software and the accompanying
hardware.
Nigerian libraries are also
partakers of this worldwide trend in libraries although there are still some
libraries struggling to undergo automation; there is a huge appreciation and acknowledgement
of the benefits of library automation and impressively, a huge number of
libraries in Nigeria are automated.
Despite the benefits associated
with using library software, most automated libraries still face challenges and
are not able to make optimal use of these systems. One very pertinent challenge
that is being faced by many libraries in Nigeria is the absence of skilled man
power to use and maintain library systems. This is a huge problem that greatly
needs to be addressed so that there can be a better appreciation and a
prolonged usage of a library’s system.
In my opinion there is need for training
of personnel to acquire skills in the use of library systems both in individual
libraries and most importantly in higher institutions. If there is a proper
training at the grass root level then it can be anticipated that this challenge
would not be experienced in the nearest future. In this light, I suggest that:
More relevant courses in library
automation processes should be incorporated into the Library and Information Science
curriculum at the degree level.
There should also be practical
courses on the use of software for in house operations such acquisitions,
cataloging, circulation and so on.
Library software which comprises
Proprietary and Open source software should be taught across the four levels of
the higher education and at the final year of study, students should be made to
write research projects on Library software administration and use.
If this happens we can then hope
for graduates in the field of Library and Information Science with skills in
library systems (whether Proprietary and Open source) and can be employed to
manage and utilize the systems being used in libraries.
In addition, short professional
courses on Library Management Systems should be made available and less
expensive for graduates to enable them further develop their skills and acquire
more knowledge. I also think that higher institutions can set up an online
professional course for librarians that are already working and wish to learn
more.
