1.1 Introduction
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) refers to the diverse set of technological tools and resources used to communicate, create, store, and manage information. ICT includes computers, the internet, digital libraries, software applications, and other electronic devices that facilitate information access and dissemination (UNESCO, 2017). In the context of libraries, ICT plays a crucial role in modernizing services, improving information retrieval, and enhancing user engagement. Public libraries, as institutions dedicated to providing free access to information and knowledge, are expected to integrate ICT into their operations to meet the evolving needs of users in the digital age (Ajegbomogun & Lawal, 2018).
The importance of ICT in public libraries is evident in the growing demand for digital resources, online databases, and electronic catalogues, which support learning, research, and community development. ICT enables libraries to offer faster access to information, facilitate virtual reference services, and maintain efficient library management systems (Onuoha, 2019).
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 Study
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has become an essential tool in the management and dissemination of information in modern society. According to Ajegbomogun and Lawal (2018), ICT facilities in public libraries significantly enhance the accessibility, organization, and delivery of information services. Public libraries are expected to leverage ICT to provide timely and efficient services to users, including students, researchers, and the general public. However, the integration of ICT in Nigerian public libraries is often hindered by challenges related to inadequate infrastructure, limited funding, and insufficiently trained personnel.
Okon and Inyang (2017) reported that the adoption of ICT in libraries improves the management of information resources and facilitates faster retrieval of data. Ezeani and Igwesi (2018) affirmed that digital literacy among library users is crucial for the effective utilization of ICT facilities, as users often require guidance to navigate electronic databases and online catalogues. Onuoha (2019) contended that while the potential benefits of ICT in public libraries are substantial, the reality is that many libraries in Nigeria are unable to fully exploit these technologies due to operational constraints. Furthermore, studies have stated that the underutilization of ICT facilities is often caused by poor maintenance, lack of awareness, and inconsistent power supply (Nwalo, 2016). It has been asserted that even when ICT resources are available, they remain underexploited due to inadequate training of library staff and limited orientation programs for users (Ajegbomogun & Lawal, 2018).
In the specific context of Imo State Public Library, Owerri, reports indicate that although some ICT facilities have been provided, their utilization is minimal. Users often face difficulties accessing computers, using online databases, and benefiting from digital resources due to limited support services and low awareness of ICT-enabled library offerings (Ezeani & Igwesi, 2018). On the other hand, the growing demand for ICT services among students and researchers emphasizes the need to assess the adequacy of these facilities and understand the patterns of their use (Onuoha, 2019). This study is set against the backdrop of the critical need to examine the availability and utilization of ICT facilities in Imo State Public Library, Owerri.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that the rapid advancement of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has revolutionized access to information, research, and learning across various sectors. Public libraries are expected to leverage ICT to enhance service delivery and meet the growing information needs of their patrons. According to Ajegbomogun and Lawal (2018), many public libraries struggle with outdated ICT infrastructure, insufficient internet connectivity, and limited access to digital resources, which negatively affects the quality of library services provided.
On the other hand, the increasing demand for ICT-based services among library users, including students, researchers, and the general public, emphasizes the urgent need for modern ICT facilities in public libraries (Onuoha, 2019). Studies by Nwalo (2016) suggest that even when ICT facilities are present, poor maintenance, inadequate funding, and lack of awareness significantly hinder their effective use.
Furthermore, the issue of accessibility is prominent, as many users are unable to fully utilize the ICT resources due to limited operational hours, insufficient number of computers, and low digital literacy among the library clientele (Ezeani & Igwesi, 2018). The lack of a systematic approach to integrate ICT into library services hinders the potential benefits of technology adoption, such as improved information retrieval, increased efficiency in library operations, and enhanced user satisfaction. It is against this backdrop that this study seeks to examine the availability and utilization of ICT facilities in Imo State Public Library, Owerri.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of this study is to assess the availability and utilization of ICT facilities in Imo State Public Library, Owerri. The specific objectives of the study are to:
- Determine the types of ICT facilities available in Imo State Public Library, Owerri.
- Assess the extent to which these information and communication technology facilities are utilized by library staff and users.
- Identify the challenges hindering the effective utilization of ICT facilities.
- Examine the impact of ICT utilization on library service delivery.
- Provide recommendations to improve ICT availability and usage in the library.
1.5 Research Questions
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- What types of ICT facilities are available in Imo State Public Library, Owerri?
- To what extent are the available ICT facilities utilized by library staff and users?
- What are the challenges affecting the effective utilization of ICT facilities in the library?
- How does ICT utilization impact the quality of library services?
- What strategies can be implemented to improve the availability and use of ICT facilities in the library?
1.6 Research Hypothesis
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.
- H0: There is no significant relationship between the availability of ICT facilities and the utilization of these facilities in Imo State Public Library, Owerri.
- H1: There is a significant relationship between the availability of ICT facilities and the utilization of these facilities in Imo State Public Library, Owerri.
1.7 Significance of Study
It is believed that at the completion of the study, the findings will promote awareness among library users about available ICT services and encourage effective use of digital resources. Also, users will benefit from improved access to ICT services, digital databases, and online catalogues, enhancing their research and learning experience.
Furthermore, the findings will provide evidence to guide policy formulation for effective ICT integration in public libraries across Nigeria. In addition, Organizations supporting educational and digital initiatives will use the study to design programs that strengthen ICT infrastructure and user training in public libraries.
Lastly, the study will contribute to academic knowledge on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) adoption in Nigerian public libraries, guiding future research and policymaking. The outcomes will ultimately support efforts to enhance library service delivery and foster digital literacy among the public.
1.8 Historical Background of Imo State Public Library
Imo State Public Library, with its administrative headquarters in Owerri, traces its origins to the restructuring of public library services in southeastern Nigeria following the creation of Imo State in 1976. Prior to this time, public library services in the region were provided under the Eastern Central State Library Board. When Imo State was carved out of the former East Central State on February 3, 1976, the responsibility for establishing a dedicated state library board fell to Imo State, leading to the transfer of indigenous library staff from Enugu to Owerri to set up the administrative headquarters.
The official opening of Imo State Public Library occurred on November 12, 1976, when then-Military Governor Commander Godwin Ndubuisi Kanu inaugurated the central library for public use. The building was designed to accommodate a large collection of books initially 85,000 volumes and was opened with an initial stock of around 12,000 books. Ground floor facilities included the children's library, acquisition and cataloguing departments, and an auditorium, while the first floor housed reference and adult reading sections along with administrative offices.
The early years of the library reflected both the aspirations and challenges of establishing a modern public library in a newly created state. The library began operations with a staff complement of approximately 150 personnel and a modest collection of roughly 1,350 volumes, drawing on shared assets from the former East Central State Library Board. Over time, additions were made to the physical structure, including facilities for handicapped users and exhibition spaces, broadening the services the library could offer to the public.
Branch libraries were subsequently developed across Imo State to extend library services beyond Owerri, reflecting a commitment to community outreach and access to information for rural and urban populations alike. These branches were part of wider efforts by the Imo State Library Board to establish a network of public library services designed to support education, research, and lifelong learning across the state.
1.9 Scope of Study
The scope of the research is focused on the availability and utilization of ICT facilities in Imo State Public Library, Owerri, in Imo State, Nigeria. The study is limited to library operations, ICT resources, and user engagement within this single state library, but the findings may provide insights relevant to similar public libraries across Nigeria.
1.10 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, there were some problems encountered which stood as limitations to the research work. Some of the limitations include:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
- Initial Cooperation Delay from Respondents: A particular limitation of this work came as a result of the respondent refusal to offer their cooperation at the initial time they were contacted. This contributed in making the success of this research study difficult.
1.11 Definition of Terms
Information and Communication Technology (ICT): Refers to the use of computers, internet, digital databases, and other electronic tools for storing, retrieving, and communicating information (UNESCO, 2017).
Public Library: A library that is established, funded, and maintained by the government to provide free access to information, knowledge, and learning resources for all members of the public (Ajegbomogun & Lawal, 2018).
Availability: Refers to the presence of ICT resources, such as computers, internet connectivity, and digital catalogues, in a public library that are ready for use by staff and patrons (Okon & Inyang, 2017).
Utilization: Refers to the degree to which available ICT facilities are actively used by library staff and users to perform library tasks, access information, and enhance research or learning outcomes (Ezeani & Igwesi, 2018).
Digital Literacy: The ability of library users to effectively navigate, evaluate, and utilize digital information and ICT tools for learning and research purposes (Onuoha, 2019).
Service Delivery: The provision of library services, including access to information, research assistance, and digital resources, in a manner that meets user needs efficiently (Nwalo, 2016).
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