ABSTRACT
With
the growing recognition of the potentials of Web 2.0 tools, a lot of academic
libraries are adopting the technologies and investing heavily in training
programs for their staffs in order to improve their operations. It is however
not certain whether Web 2.0 tools are actually being used for service provision
and the extent to which they have positively influenced service provision in academic
libraries hence, this
study examines the influence of librarians’ use of Web 2.0 tools on library
service provision in Lagos state tertiary institutions.
The target population employed in this study
consists of all professional and paraprofessional’s library staff in tertiary
institutions libraries in Lagos State. Total enumerative technique was used to
select all librarians in the study area. In all, a total of 196 respondents
both male and female were used for the purpose of this study. Structured
questionnaire was used to obtain relevant information about the topic of the
study. The questionnaire was
validated and the reliability co-efficient obtained was 0.76. Data were
analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. while
mean and standard deviation was used to analyze the six research questions. The
hypothesis in the study was analyzed with simple regression analysis.
Web 2.0 Tools are available and are being used by librarian to provide innovative services in tertiary institutions libraries in Lagos state. Librarians used all the web 2.0 tools for various purposes mostly for communication, research, job enhancement, and for leisure. The extent of use for service provision by librarians is about average, this is because all the web 2.0 tools are not being used to a very high extent. Web 2.0 tools were mostly used for documenting and uploading lecture files, harvesting user comments/suggestions, sharing videos and files and informing users about new items and events. Librarians in Lagos State tertiary institutions were skilled adequately in the use of web 2.0 technologies. Some of the challenges limiting the use of web 2.0 tools were technical hitches, erratic power supply, and restrictive institutional polices. The use of web 2.0 tools has a significant influence on service provision by librarian in the tertiary institution libraries in Lagos state with the value of R2 = 0.188 (= .433; t = 6.693; p< 0.05).
The study therefore concluded,
that the use of web 2.0 tools has great potentials for library service
provision, however there is need for academic library management in tertiary
institutions in Lagos state to formulate policy statement that will guide the
conduct and use of web base technology, address the current poor internet
connectivity and inadequate power situation in order to explore and use web-based innovations for innovative information service
delivery and draw patrons to the library.
Keywords:
Web 2.0 Tools, Service Provision, Academic Libraries, Librarians, Lagos State
Word Count:411
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Content
Page
Title Page i
Certification ii
Dedication iii
Acknowledgements iv
Abstract v
Table of Contents vi
List of Tables ix
List of Figures x
Appendix xi
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study 1
1.2 Statement of the Problem 7
1.3 Objective of the Study 7
1.4 Research Questions 8
1.5 Hypothesis 8
1.6 Significance of the Study 9
1.7 Scope of the Study 9
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms 10
CHAPTER TWO:
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
2.1 Overview of Web 2.0 Tools 11
2.2 Web 2.0 tools use in Academic Libraries 15
2.3 Services provision and Web 2.0 tools use in academic libraries 21
2.4 Librarians’ Competence at Using Web 2.0 Tools 26
2.5 Perception of Web 2.0 Tools by Academic Librarians 29
2.6 Challenges Facing Implementation of Web 2.0 in Academic Libraries 33
Content
Page
2.7 Theoretical Framework 35
2.8 Conceptual Model 36
2.9 Appraisal of Literature 39
CHAPTER THREE: METHODOLOGY
3.0 Introduction 41
3.1 Research Design 41
3.2 Population 41
3.3 Sample size and sampling Technique 42
3.4 Instrument 42
3.5 Validity and Reliability of Research instrument 44
3.6 Method of Data Collection 45
3.7 Method of Data Analysis 46
3.8 Ethical Consideration 45
CHAPTER FOUR: DATA
ANALYSIS, RESULTS AND DISCUSSION OF
FINDINGS
4.0 Introduction 47
4.1. Data Analysis and Presentation Based On Research Questions 48
4.2 Testing Of Research Hypothesis 55
4.3 Discussion of Findings 56
CHAPTER FIVE: SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
5.0 Introduction 60
5.1 Summary 60
5.2 Conclusion 61
5.3 Recommendations 61
5.4 Contribution to Knowledge 62
Content Page
5.5 Suggestion for Further Research 62
REFERENCES
LIST OF
TABLES
Table Page
3.1: Distribution of librarians and Para-professionals in government and private owned tertiary institution libraries in Lagos state 42
4.1: Demographic Information of Respondents. 47
4.2: Types of Web 2.0 Tools Being Used 48
4.3: Shows the Purpose of Use of Web 2.0 Tools by Respondents 49
4.4: Extent of Use of Web 2.0 Tools by Respondents 50
4.5 Shows the Services Provided Using Web 2.0 Tools by Respondents 51
4.6 Shows the Perception of Librarian on the Relevance of Web 2.0 Tools 52
4.7 Shows the Competence of Respondents at Using Web 2.0 Tools 53
4.8 Shows the Constrains of Respondents at using Web 2.0 Tools 54
4.9 Model Summary 55
4.10 Coefficients 56
LIST OF
FIGURES
Figure Page
1: Theoretical Model describing customer knowledge management in academic libraries 37
2: Conceptual Model describing librarians use of web 2.0 tools for service provision in tertiary institutions libraries in Lagos state 38
APPENDIX
- Questionaire
- Health
Research committee Clearances
CHAPTER
ONE
INTRODUCTION
- Background
to the Study
In the past two decades, Information and
Communication Technologies (ICTs) have evolved at an unprecedented pace changing
the way people communicate and search for information. The new information age
has brought about improved information delivery, skill in processing of
information, experience and precision, good time management and improved
network system.Chisenga (2006) defined information and communication technology
as a diverse set of technological tools and resources used to communicate and
create, disseminate, store, and manage information. However, Haliso (2011)
define Information Communication Technology as encompassing a wide range of
rapidly evolving technologies but to include telecommunications technologies,
such as telephony, cable, satellite, TV and radio, computer-mediated
conferencing, and videoconferencing, as well as digital technologies, such as
computers, information networks (Internet, the World Wide Web, intranets and
extranets) social sites and software applications.
A recent trend in higher education
programme and services is the increase in the range of Information and
Communication Technology (ICT) that all organizations, including the library
that has the required capabilities and resources can tap for their development.
This may be partly explained by the greater emphasis on ICT use in education to
integrate higher education programme into a global village. Libraries have long
been recognized as an indispensable companion to higher education, and the
“heart” of universities. They are meant to support the universities to achieve
their vision and mission (Ogunsola, 2004). To achieve these mission and vision,
the libraries had to adopt and maintain more vibrant information resources into
its functions and services in the easiest, fastest and comprehensive way.
However, changes in accessing information makes it imperative for
libraries; as the traditional custodians of information to find new ways to
better serve their customers needs in this information age. These developments in
web base technologies have put pressure on libraries to modernise the way they
deliver their services puting their customers need in mind. According to Sadeh
(2007) the authour afirmed also that libraries and librarians now faced with
competition in their duty that suppose to be their eclusive domain because they
are forced to keep looking forvways to adapt to the chaging technology and keep
their services relevant for new information seekers.Pressure on libraries is
now intense and it is primarily because of the experiences people are enjoying
with these provided internet services provider most notably the internet, thus
the internet users simply expect to be able to access any information they want,
from anywhere in the world and at any time.
Libraries and librarians are
rethinking and exploring new ways to reposition themselves in view of the high
expectations of their various stakeholders so as to be relevant in the
discharge of their duties because users have become more aware of the possibilities
of information technologies and find it easier to go to Google than drive to
the library to serch for information (Stuart, 2010). Thus librarians in view of
the high epectations face immense challenges on how to effectively meet the
needs and preferences of their users especially in this information age. However, librarians who
are not familiar with the use of ICTs are usually frustrated and anxious and
exhibit avoidance behavior; it is however, imperative that all library staff be
skilled in web technology and apply these skills in assisting users.
Ramos (2007) the contemporary role of
librarians is well captured by the author who sees librarians as partners in
information literacy education; computer literacy mentors, database builders,
and excellent guides in determining and using information sources that are
available. The new environment which the library has found itself has proved
that libraries are not only crucial but librarians’ role as knowledge providers
has become even more significant in this age. Precisely, the rise of digitized
information is an opportunity to elevate the role of the librarian leading to
the emergence of a new breed of librarian usually called “The Cyber
Librarian” or “Cybrarian” – a specialist in locating information
on the Internet (Rao & Babu, 2001). Accordingly, librarians are trained to
be experts in information searching, selecting, acquiring, organizing,
preserving, repackaging, disseminating, and serving (Troll, 2002).
Among the tools available to librarians
in this digital age are Web 2.0 tools which are web-based technologies that
enable users to connect, communicate and collaborate with one another, forming
on-line socialites and communities. Such technologies include blogs, wikis, RSS
feeds, audio-podcasting, content syndication, social bookmarking, tagging,
social networking, multimedia sharing, bibliographic reference managers, chat,
messaging and video conferencing (Kim & Abbas, 2010). The Use of these
tools can bring a lot of innovation into library service provision; users will
be fascinated and information will be disseminated through a more attractive
and agreeable medium. According to Habib (2006), the introduction of Web 2.0
tools into library web sites encourages interaction or communication between
users and the library thus expanding library services to users located a long
way from the physical institution.
Swan and Panda (2009) argue that the
library users’ attitude to information is gradually shifting from the printed
document to online resources, and to the use of Web 2.0 tools. The use of Web
2.0 tools can enable the types of library services that meet the expectations
of today’s users which are to have access to information wherever and whenever
they require it. Since this is mobile era, it may be fruitless effort stopping
or discouraging users including librarians from using these technologies for
providing services, it should rather be brought to good educational practice or
use in the libraries to facilitate learning instead of forbidden its usage
within and outside schools especially in Nigeria like other countries in the
world. Cooney, (2009) concurred that learners have a natural attraction into
learning tools that will build their knowledge and broaden their perspectives.
Web 2.0 tools have been found to have ability to support learning and promote
services of various kinds including library services. They are useful within
and outside of library, librarians and users can answers users request or
provide assistance and manage information in any place on their own time.
Web 2.0 tools can be used by librarian to promote essential library
services for example chat reference, tagging, personalized social network,
streaming media tutorial with interactive databases, blogs or micro-blogs, can
be used to go straight to the user with news and up to date information related
to new services, materials or service developments.The presence of web tools on
library websites can provide cost effective marketing opportunities of library
services and also provide invaluable public relation service to ask a librarian
with the use of instant messaging (IM), the web tools can be used to raise awareness and promote library services by updating
users and publish instantly. For
example, many librarians now use Twitter to get information about activities
and initiatives going on elsewhere; and to share ideas or ask colleagues for
support thereby expanding their professional networks and drawing on the
experience of their colleagues at the international level (Boateng, Mbarika,
& Thomas, 2010).
Web 2.0 tools such as bookmarking tools,
collaborative writing, news and Blogs, Social Networking Sites (SNS), YouTube,
Real simple Syndication (RSS) Wikis, Instant Messaging (IM) and Podcast, video
sharing tools and photo digital imaging are now being used to provide
innovative library services and also to present new opportunities for
professional collaboration and professional development of librarians.
Gichora and Kwanya (2015)
carried out a study on impact of web 2.0 tools in academic libraries in Kenya. The studies revealed how Web 2.0 tools are
being used to enhance the delivery of effective library services (Bradley,
2007; Huffman, 2006). The Libraries and Social Software in Education (LASSIE)
project report (2007) gives an overview of how Web 2.0 tools have influenced
the delivery of services which include increased user generated content in the
catalogue, and improved information sharing and communication. Other notable
impact was improved communication among librarians and between librarians and
patrons. Web 2.0 has deepened communication among library communities due to
the fact that the tools are not too formal thus reducing the restrictions associated
with traditional communication. The other impacts of Web 2.0 on academic
libraries in Kenya included improved searching and exposure to more information
resources and increased usage of library resources among others impacts. The
other identified impacts are increased interest in the library, enhanced
indexing and search relevance, improved timeliness of information, increased
efficiency and effectiveness of outreach activities, increased collaboration
and customization of communication, increased learning and knowledge sharing.It
also reduced costs of library operations and training, improved flexibility of
library services because users can access them from anywhere, any time with
much ease, and Reduced information overload as users only access what they need
and depend on the communities to filter or recommend credible information and
sources.
Some negative impacts were also identified. These included reduced
confidentiality of information especially in wikis since there was little trace
or proof of ownership and authenticity of the authors’ skills and knowledge
level in those fields they were contributing on. Similarly, there were doubts
about the reliability of tools; standardization challenges; and increased
occurrence of insecurity incidents; as well as the emergence of sophisticated
legal and moral issues pertaining to the use of Web 2.0 tools in academic
libraries. There were also difficulties arising from relying on inadequate
infrastructure and technical skills as well as restrictions on access of
certain Web 2. 0 tools to certain users. These difficulties hampered the
effective use of Web 2.0 tools amongst both librarians and users.
Emmanuel,
Evelyn, and Vera (2013) in their research asked a germane question to find out
the usefulness of web 2.0 technology for library services, and found out in the
study that, there are numbers of potential advantages of web technologies. They equally highlighted some limitations,
and finally suggested that web tools represent some of library resources that can
be used to promote innovative service worthy of further investigation. Chinwe,
and Andrew, (2002) “The growth and opportunities for providing services in the
library are linked to the ubiquity as it is easy to use, reliable, and
attractive and its mobile networks have far greater penetration than broadband
internet, thus users are already so familiar with one form of web 2.0
technology and interfaces of the devices that there are no barriers or learning
curves.”
He added that, use of web 2.0 tools for library
services if adopted is a reflection of interactivity with librarians and
information resources can be delivered. They also argue further that web 2.0
tools apart of from engaging users it also improve users confidence as users
can practice the application within their comfort zones.” Taking an advantage
of the benefits of web 2.0 technologies, web 2.0 tools will enable the library
to reach out to potential audiences wherever they are without visically
visiting the library (Casey & Savastinuk 2006). However, these kinds of
services cannot be provided without improvements in the competences, skills and
attitude of library workers. Thus, implementation of Web 2.0 technologies
implies a challenge for librarians. Precisely, the knowledge of computers and
information retrieval techniques is needed to use these resources
effectively.
The purpose for which patrons want to use
available web 2.0 resources is an important determinant of use. Patrons needs
for electronic resources range from provision of solutions to assignments given
to them by lecturers, successfully carrying out research/project, personal
study for knowledge and for leisure purposes. In addition to using library web
base resources for intellectual and technical developments, tertiary
institution students can use web 2.0 resources for leisure, research, job
enhancement, and online chatting, and relaxation.
Another important construct for librarian’
use of web 2.0 resources is the intensity of use. This can also be referred to
as the level of use of web 2.0 resources. Intensity of use is the time rate of
frequency of use. According to Ojo and Akande (2005) in a survey of 350
respondents, the authors examined users’ access, usage and awareness of web
based electronic information resources at the University College Hospital (UCH)
Ibadan, Nigeria. The finding revealed that the level of usage of the electronic
information resources is not high. A major problem couple with was lack of
awareness, and lack of information retrieval skills for exploiting electronic
resources, thus making the level of usage of resources very low. As person
forms beliefs about an object, he automatically and simultaneously acquires an
attitude or perception toward that object.
Jagboro (2003) had emphasized the emerging reliance and attitude of
users to electronic resources.
Therefore, a comprehensive national
information policy is important to the survival of any country in today’s
information Age. This is because every sector of the society is influenced by
the application of information and communication technology, this is a key
factor in an information society. A national information policy will help
ensure proper packaging of information by determining the nature and format of
information resources to meet local needs. Web resources that violate local
content specifications will no longer be allowed. Internet service providers
could no longer expose young Nigerians to inappropriate knowledge and content.
Information-sharing and collaboration among libraries and information centers
in the country may be greatly jeopardized if there is no policy to regulate it
in the face of easy flow of resources across borders. A national information
policy will help to streamline both the nature and format of information
resourcesand also specifying how web resources will be organized, managed and
made available to Nigerians.
Lagos State is located in the south-western
geopolitical zone of Nigeria. Accordingly to the world population revision,
Lagos State population was estimated at 21 million in 2014 making it the
largest city in Africa. Lagos state is considered to be diversely populated due
to heavy migration from other parts of Nigeria and surrounding countries. There
are over 250 ethnic groups’ refugees in Lagos state including the Yoruba’s,
Hausa, Igbo and Fulani’s international citizens such as Americans, British,
east Indians, Chinese, Zimbabweans, Greeks, Sierra Leone, Lebanese and Japanese
are also present in the state. Until December 1992, Lagos was the capital city
of Nigeria. It still remains the economic nerve centre of the country with the
largest concentration of industries, financial institutions and major sea
ports. Lagos state is referred to as the centre of excellence. The choice of
Lagos state for this study is apt in view of the states divers’ population and
its unique economic position in the country, Nigeria.
1.2
Statement of the Problem
Available literature has established the potency of web 2.0 tools and their transformative influence on services and operations. They are essential applications of the learning materials needed to achieve academic excellence. These web2.0 application resources are available both within and outside the tertiary institutions libraries. A growing number of academic libraries are starting to adopt and implement these tools to their advantage. It is not surprising that different organizations in Nigeria, including academic libraries have invested heavily on ICT and in training their staff on how to use these technologies. It is however not certain whether Web 2.0 tools are actually being used for service provision and the extent to which they have positively influenced service provision in academic libraries. This is evident by the differences in the literature reviewed on the usages and perceptions of academic librarians on use of web 2.0 tools in academic libraries. According to Habib (2006b) librarians are struggling to understand their relationship to a new development of web 2.0 technology, because these tools operate like libraries in connecting users with the information they need. Therefore, this study aims to investigate librarians’ use of web 2.0 tools and service delivery in tertiary institutions libraries in Lagos State, Nigeria.
LIBRARIANS’ USE OF WEB 2.0 TOOLS AND SERVICE PROVISION IN LAGOS STATE TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS LIBRARIES
