1.1 Introduction
A library is widely regarded as the heart of every academic, research, or professional institution because it provides the information resources necessary for knowledge creation, learning, and decision-making. Acquisition in library science is defined as the process of selecting, ordering, and obtaining library materials such as books, journals, audiovisual resources, and electronic databases to meet the needs of users (Edoka, 2000). Special libraries are unique types of libraries established to serve specific institutions, organizations, or professional groups such as research centers, hospitals, industries, government agencies, and corporate bodies. They are distinct from public and academic libraries because their collections and services are focused on specialized areas of knowledge, tailored to the information demands of particular groups of users (Anasi, 2012). In Nigeria, special libraries play a vital role in advancing research, supporting innovation, guiding policy formulation, and providing professional services in various fields such as medicine, engineering, law, science, and technology.
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Research hypothesis and questions, Limitation of the study and Definition of terms.
1.2 Background of the Study
Libraries are essential institutions for knowledge dissemination, preservation, and accessibility. They serve as repositories of human thought and as gateways to information that support research, innovation, and development. Special libraries, in particular, are designed to serve the information needs of specific organizations, professional bodies, and research institutions by providing specialized resources and services tailored to their mandates. Their efficiency depends on timely and adequate acquisition of relevant materials and the effective delivery of user-centered services.
According to Edoka (2000), acquisition is the lifeblood of any library because it ensures that collections remain relevant and meet the changing demands of users. He reported that without continuous and adequate acquisition, libraries lose their vitality and fail to meet their objectives. Similarly, Aina (2019) asserted that the process of acquiring library resources is a complex activity influenced by factors such as funding, publishing trends, and technological advancement. He stated that Nigerian special libraries face peculiar difficulties because of poor financial support and inadequate infrastructure.
Owolabi and Fabunmi (2020) affirmed that rising costs of books, journals, and electronic databases present a major barrier to effective collection development in Nigerian libraries. They contended that foreign exchange instability has further aggravated the situation, making it difficult for special libraries to procure essential resources. On the other hand, local publications in specialized disciplines remain insufficient, leaving critical knowledge gaps for users.
In the area of service provision, Anasi (2012) reported that special libraries in Nigeria often struggle to deliver quality services due to staffing challenges and poor ICT facilities. He asserted that limited numbers of professional librarians trained in specialized subjects reduce the ability of these libraries to provide advanced research support. Furthermore, Eze (2021) affirmed that the adoption of ICT in special libraries is undermined by inadequate internet access, unreliable electricity supply, and lack of technical skills. These shortcomings weaken digital service delivery and hinder users from accessing timely and accurate information.
According to Akporhonor (2018), bureaucratic bottlenecks in acquisition processes, particularly in government-funded institutions, delay the procurement of materials and reduce the responsiveness of libraries to user needs. He stated that this problem contributes to user dissatisfaction and limits the libraries' capacity to compete with international information systems. In addition, environmental and preservation challenges also undermine collection sustainability. Owolabi and Fabunmi (2020) contended that poor storage facilities, humidity, and lack of proper preservation techniques lead to the deterioration of materials, while inadequate digital backup measures expose electronic resources to risks of data loss. This study is set against the backdrop of these persistent challenges of acquisition of library materials and service provision to users in special libraries in Nigeria.
1.3 Historical Background of Imo House of Assembly
Imo State was one of the seven newly created states by the federal military government on February 3, 1976. The constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria, 1979, made provision for the establishment of a house of assembly in each state.
The constitution also provided that a state house of assembly shall consist of democratically elected members three times the total number of seats which of representatives in compliance such stipulations, the Imo State house of assembly consist of 90 elected numbers in the second republic.
In accordance with a proclamation by the federal military government the Imo State house of assembly as well as other state October 1999. of the 90 pioneer members of the state house of assembly four resigned to take up other appointments in the executive arm of the state and the federal government while are died in active service thus creating five seats (house of assembly Imo State Nigeria brochure August 1980). Contemporarily, if is understandably therefore that when the military shoots into the control of government, being a non-representative government, if takes away the soul of democracy the legislature.
Before 1985 and 1999, when the military, which is a dictatorship, kept a vice-like gripe an power in Nigeria, it scrapped the legislature in that period the legislative structure, tradition and practice atrophied and indeed were almost extinct from the fourth republic (Preface) cover 1999, if writers to assert to the return of democracy in 1999 was therefore a new beginning, a self rediscovery for the legislature in Nigeria. The house is headed by the speaker on the legislative arm while by the clerk/permanent secretary.
1.4 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that there is limited financial resources directly affect the ability of libraries to acquire up-to-date materials such as books, journals, and electronic resources, thereby restricting access to relevant and current information for users (Aina, 2019). Technology adoption is also a major issue. While digital libraries and electronic databases are transforming information access globally, many special libraries in Nigeria struggle with inadequate ICT infrastructure. Poor internet connectivity, and lack of trained personnel make it difficult to effectively implement digital acquisition processes and provide seamless services to users (Eze, 2021).
Furthermore, special libraries rely heavily on specialized and technical resources, many of which are imported, and the fluctuation of foreign exchange rates makes their acquisition difficult. On the other hand, local publications in specialized fields are either insufficient or poorly distributed, leading to further gaps in collection development (Owolabi & Fabunmi, 2020). It is against this backdrop that this study seeks to investigate the challenges of acquisition of library material and services to users in special libraries in Nigeria.
1.5 Aim and Objectives of the Study
The aim of the study is to examine the problems associated with acquisition of library materials and the provision of services in special libraries in Nigeria.
The specific objectives are to:
- Examine the impact of rising costs and foreign exchange challenges on acquisition.
- Assess the adequacy of funding available for acquisition in special libraries.
- Investigate the role of ICT infrastructure in acquisition and service delivery.
- Identify the effect of staffing challenges on user services in special libraries.
- Evaluate the influence of bureaucratic procurement processes on timely access to resources.
1.6 Research Questions
Based on the stated objectives, the study will address the following research questions:
- How adequate is the funding available for acquisition in special libraries?
- What is the impact of rising costs and foreign exchange challenges on acquisition?
- How does ICT infrastructure influence acquisition and service delivery?
- In what ways do staffing challenges affect user services in special libraries?
- To what extent do bureaucratic procurement processes affect timely access to resources?
1.7 Significance of the Study
The outcome of this research will provide a basis for advocating for better funding policies, and the adoption of modern information and communication technology (ICT) tools that will enhance service delivery in special libraries. For policymakers and government agencies, the study will offer evidence that will support the formulation of policies geared towards strengthening the library sector, ensuring timely provision of resources, and improving procurement procedures.
Furthermore, the research study will serve as a reference material that will expand the body of knowledge on library acquisition challenges and stimulate further studies in library and information science.
Lastly, users of special libraries will equally benefit from the outcomes of the study, as the recommendations will focus on improving user access, ensuring timely delivery of relevant materials, and enhancing satisfaction with library services.
1.8 Research Hypotheses
In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.
Hypothesis One
- H0: Inadequate funding does not significantly affect the acquisition of library materials in special libraries in Nigeria.
- H1: Inadequate funding significantly affects the acquisition of library materials in special libraries in Nigeria.
Hypothesis Two
- H0: ICT infrastructure does not significantly affect acquisition and service delivery in special libraries.
- H1: ICT infrastructure significantly affects acquisition and service delivery in special libraries.
Hypothesis Three
- H0: Rising costs and foreign exchange fluctuations negatively influence the acquisition of specialized materials.
- H1: Rising costs and foreign exchange fluctuations positively influence the acquisition of specialized materials.
1.9 Scope of the Study
The scope of this research is focused on the challenges of acquisition of library materials and services to users in special libraries in Nigeria, with emphasis on the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) Library, Lagos State. The scope covers issues relating to funding, procurement, ICT infrastructure, staffing, and preservation as they affect acquisition and service delivery.
1.10 Limitations of the Study
A study of this nature is bound to experience certain problems as such the constraints imposed on the research include:
- Time Constraints: A study of this nature needs relatively long time during which information for accurate or at least near accurate inference could be drawn. The period of the study was short, time posed as constraints to the research.
- Financial Constraints: The research would have extended the survey to other area at the empirical level, but limitation as included cost of transportation to the source of material and the cost of time setting of the already completed work.
- Lack of Cooperation: Many of the respondents are usually aggressive on issue that border cooperation among the respondents border.
- Response Bias: The study will involve surveys and interviews with cooperative managers and members. Response bias may occur if respondents provide socially desirable answers or if there is reluctance to disclose negative financial information due to privacy concerns or fear of repercussions.
1.11 Definition of Terms
Acquisition:
Acquisition refers to the process of selecting, ordering, and obtaining library materials to build a relevant collection for users. According to Edoka (2000), acquisition is central to library development as it ensures that resources meet the needs of users.
Special Libraries:
Special libraries are information centers established to serve the needs of specific organizations, institutions, or professional groups. Aina (2019) defined them as libraries with specialized collections tailored to support research and practice in targeted fields such as medicine, law, and engineering.
Library Services:
Library services refer to the range of activities and assistance provided by a library to make information accessible. Anasi (2012) explained that services include reference assistance, current awareness services, selective dissemination of information, and electronic access to resources.
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