The challenge of inadequate skilled manpower in the use of Library software and how it can be addressed

The 21^st 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.