ASSESSMENT OF THE APPLICATION OF INFORMATION RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES FOR ACQUISITION INSPECIAL LIBRARIES IN PLATEAU STATE

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

The SpecialLibrary has existed for ages with the emergence of specializations in different fields. With the several years of its existence, it still engages in its traditional role of providing information resources to its various special clienteles. It came into existence to fulfill a need for information in the special fields so it engages in selecting and acquiring varieties of publications in different forms to meet the needs of its users. The primary aim of the special library is to build a useful collection to serve users, and it presupposes selection from a vast number of possibilities. Thespecial library develops and maintains collection that supports and enhances the information needs of the patrons. That is the mandate given to it by the institution it belongs to.

Information resource development refers to the process of systematically building library collections to serve study, teaching, research, recreational, and other needs of library users. The process includes selection and de-selection of current and retrospective materials, the planning of strategies for continuing acquisition, and evaluation of collections to determine how well they serve user needs. Overall, it encompasses many library operations ranging from the selection of individual titles for purchase to the withdrawal of expendable materials (Fordham, 2010). Information resource development includes every activity that goes into acquiring materials which include selection, ordering, and payment. It is a chain of events that include planning, administration and control. It serves as a foundation upon which other library services are built

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(Olaojo and Akewukereke, 2006). Resource development is a planned, continuous and cost effective acquisition of quality, relevant materials to meet the needs of users and the objectives of the library. It is not just the growth in volumes and titles but in the quality of acquired materials in enhancing effective information delivery. This is the only reason for development to be meaningful where resources are concerned. Ajidahun( 2004) stated that a library that cannot fulfill this yearning is a moribund and anemic information system because it has lost its vitality, honor and attraction.

ASSESSMENT OF THE APPLICATION OF INFORMATION RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES FOR ACQUISITION INSPECIAL LIBRARIES IN PLATEAU STATE