Benefits And Challenges Of Integration Of Information And Communication Technology (ICT) In Academic Libraries In Nigeria

Abstract

The development in information and communication technology (ICT) has affected the operations as well as the purpose of academic libraries system with respect to curriculum content, acquisition of materials and administration of libraries. Academic library are taking radical new approaches in their response to changing patterns of usage, free service and qualitative service delivery. There is need to integrate ICT in academic libraries for their survival in this age of technology. This paper dealt on the benefits and challenges of integrating ICT in academic libraries. The benefits examined include: provision of better access to information, provision of independent searching, encouragement of library cooperation, ease of librarians work, wider rooms for resource sharing, ease of library administrative work, reduction in staff costs, improvement of staff morale, effectiveness, efficiency and prestige, access to up to date information. The challenges that could disstrategize this approach include: paucity of fund, inadequate space/accommodation, lack of trained staff, job loss, irregular power supply/power failure, inadequate facilities and infrastructure, ICT encourage piracy. Some of the recommendations made include: improvement in power supply, improvement in library funding to enable in upgrading the facilities, infrastructure, purchasing, repairing and upgrading software and hardware.