1.1 Introduction
Information Communication Technology (ICT) refers to the technologies that are used to collect, store, edit and communicate information in various format (Raji, 2018). The use of ICT improves access to digital information, narrows down the digital divide and also improves standard of living. Adoption of ICT in libraries is a way of improving on information services provided in libraries. Information revolution started a number of years ago and the role all the world has been good. This revolution has brought about convergence of information communication technologies (ICT), which have remained at the centre of global, social and economic transformation.
Similarly, Information and communication technology (ITC) is defined as computer-based tools used by people to work with the information and communication processing needs of an organization, it encompasses the hardware and software, the network and several other devices (video audio, everalphy camera) that convert information (text) images, sounds motion and others into common digital form. Libraries are playing a very important role facilitating access to global information and knowledge resources, using ICT. Apparently, ICTs are indispensable tools needed for provision of value added information that support the sustainable development. Nevertheless, information provision is paramount to development and growth of any nation. It is therefore important that, effort is made to enable usability of ICTs in all sectors, of the nation ICT and library services.
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, Limitations of the Study and Definition of technical terms.
1.2 Objective of Study
The aim of the study is to scrutinize the Role of ICT in Provision of Library Services as a Panacea for Sustainable Development in Nigeria. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To examine the viability of ICT library for sustainable development in Nigeria.
- To find out the ICT infrastructures put in place in public libraries in Nigeria.
- To find out the level of training given to public library staff on ICTs
- To find out the factors militating against the role of ICT in the provision of Library Services in Nigeria.
1.3 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:
- Does the viability of ICT library enhance sustainable development in Nigeria?
- What are the ICT infrastructures put in place in public libraries in Nigeria?
- Is the public library staff on ICTs given a high level training?
- What are the factors militating against the role of ICT in the provision of Library Services in Nigeria?
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