1

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

The development of the computer and communication

technology has paved the way to newer forms of information

dissemination and brought about a change from the traditional

library to the digital library. This idea of easy, finger-tip access to

information, what has now been conceptualized as the digital

library today began with Vannear Bush’s Memex machine (Bush

1945) and has continued to evolve with each advancement in

information technology, also with the arrival of the computer they

concept now centers on large bibliographic databases, they now

familiar online retrieval and public access systems that are part of

any contemporary library. Presently lots of libraries are actively

involved in building institutional repositories of their institution's

books, papers, theses, and other works which can be digitized or

were 'born digital'. Many of these repositories are made available

to the general public with few restrictions, in accordance with the

2

goals of open access, in contrast to the publication of research in

commercial journals, where the publishers often limit access rights.

The library can be categorised into different types based on the

target audience (Aina 2004). Each category could be further

divided into specific types. The major types are as follows;

Academic library, School library, National library, Special library,

Public library.

Academic library are libraries that are attached to post-

secondary institutions. The perform function directly related to the

mission of the institution they serve. In the areas of learning,

teaching, research and service. The library in this regard is seen as

the heart of the intellectual system of the university and to a large

extent the quality of the university is measured by the services

provided by the library because of its unique position in the overall

university system.

The National library is supposed to be the apex library of a

country. In many cases, the library is in the executive arm of

government as it is the case of Nigeria, Botswana and many other

countries. The principal function of a national library is to serve as

3

the depository of all copyright publications within a country. This

facilitates the publication by the library of the national

bibliography of the country on an annual basis.

They public library is more or less a universal library. It is expected

to serve all kinds of people including young people and people

with disabilities. Some of the characteristics of a public library are

provision of free service to all, support for the civic and cultural

activities of a community and meeting the informational needs of

all in the society.

Based on the above definitions the library can be seen as a

storehouse, which stocks all forms of knowledge and information

carriers that are meant to be consulted and used by reader with

little or no expense on their part, a library can also be viewed as

an organized collection of items which may be in the form of

books, journals, videotapes, CDROMS etc. Along with the services

required to make them available to a given user group or groups

it has been referred to as a “place to get information and also get

help finding information”. It could be physical, virtual or a

combination of both.

4

According to Ojedokun (2000) a digital library is listed as including

electronic Databases on the Internet, World Wide Web (WWW),

Compact Disc Read Only Memory (CDROM) and propriety

services such as dialog, thus a digital library is viewed as a

collection of full text bibliographic information sources rather than

building and incorporates human services and information

technology tools. The digital library in a broad sense is a

computerized system that allows obtaining a coherent means of

access to an organized, electronically stored repository of

information and data. It is a relatively new concept that explains

the nature of the collection it holds.

This oxymoronic phrase has attracted dreamers and

engineers, visionaries and entrepreneurs, a diversity of social

scientists, lawyers and technicians and even ironically librarians

though some would argue that digital libraries have very little to

do with libraries as institutions or the practice of librarianship.

Others would argue that the issue of the future of the library as

social, cultural and community institutions, along with related

questions about the character and treatment of what we have

come to call “intellectual property “ in our society. Libraries today

5

which thrive to push the frontiers of knowledge to greater heights

have accepted information communication technology into the

library and this has in turn had great impact on the field and

profession of librarianship and libraries, an example of this is seen

in the way we now perceive and disseminate information which

has even threatened the traditional approaches to libraries and its

professionals. The impact of such technologies as the computer,

internet, multimedia and the CDROMS has led to what we now

refer to as a paperless society. The convergence of

computational storage and networking technologies now have a

wider impact on the society, for instance computers record any

given information at high speed and disseminate this information

through a network to wherever it is required by users.

In popular usage, the term information refers to facts and opinions

provided and received during the course of daily life: one obtains

information directly from other living beings, from mass media,

from electronic data banks, and from all sorts of observable

phenomena in the surrounding environment. A person using such

facts and opinions generates more information, some of which is

communicated to others during discourse, by instructions, in letters

6

and documents, and through other media. Information organized

according to some logical relationships is referred to as a body of

knowledge, to be acquired by systematic exposure or study.

Application of knowledge (or skills) yields expertise, and additional

analytic or experiential insights are said to constitute instances of

wisdom. Use of the term information is not restricted exclusively to

its communication via natural language. Information is also

registered and communicated through art and by facial

expressions and gestures or by such other physical responses as

shivering. Moreover, every living entity is endowed with

information in the form of a genetic code. These information

phenomena permeate the physical and mental world, and their

variety is such that it has defied so far all attempts at a unified

definition of information.

1.1.1 Brief History of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

The Ahmadu Bello University was founded on October 4, 1962 as

the University of Northern Nigeria by the then Northern Region

government and was taken over as a Federal Institution in 1975. As

stated in Part (ii) of its Principal law, the University was created to,

7

among other things, produce high level manpower, secure the

diffusion of knowledge, research and community service in

Northern Nigeria and Nigeria in general, and to function as a

centre of excellence. Sir Ahmadu Bello, of Northern Nigeria and

first Chancellor of the University had this vision for the University:"

The cardinal principle upon which our University is founded is to

impart knowledge and learning to men and women of all races

without any distinction on the grounds of race, religious, or

political beliefs. This principle is enshrined in the University Law.

Only through freedom of membership and freedom of enquiry

and research can a University be drawn into the full ferment of

thought from which new knowledge comes. Only if it adheres to

those freedoms can it become truly great. From a modest

beginning in 1962, by 2002 the University has been transformed

into the largest and the most extensive of all Universities in Sub-

Saharan Africa. Currently, the University covers a land area of

7,000 hectares and encompasses twelve academic faculties, a

Postgraduate School and 82 academic departments. It also has

five Institutes, six specialized centres, a Division of Agricultural

Colleges, a Demonstration Secondary School, a Primary School

8

and Extension and Consultancy Services, which provide a variety

of services to the University and the wider society. The total

students’ enrolment in the University’s degree and sub-degree

programs is about 35,000, drawn from every state of the

Federation, Africa and the rest of world. There are about 1,400

academic and research staff and 5,000 support staff serving the

University. The University has also nurtured two University Colleges,

the Abdullahi Bayero College (now Bayero University , Kano ) and

the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa College Now Abubakar Tafawa

Balewa University of Technology, Bauchi). While 27 tertiary

Institutions made up of Colleges of Education, Polytechnics and

Schools of Basic of Preliminary Studies are affiliated to it. The

university library system comprises the main library Kashim Ibrahim

Library (KIL), the President Kennedy Library (PKL) and ten other

satellite libraries located in Zaria and Kaduna Environs. Within the

40 years of existence, the University had to a great extent, met the

development needs for which it was founded, especially with

regards to the production of high-quality graduates and

Community Service in Engineering, Environmental Design, the

Medical Sciences, Agriculture, the Humanities, Education and the

9

Natural Sciences. The University’s five hundred thousand alumni

are found in all parts of Nigeria, Niger Republic, the Cameroon,

South Africa, Europe, Asia and the United States. Its products

occupy important positions in the public and the private sectors of

the economy, at all levels of Government, and in educational

Institutions of higher learning in and outside Nigeria.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

They information explosion of the 21st century has made

libraries to be faced with the task of handling the vast number of

information present in the library and on the internet, the digital

library being a relatively new trend to the profession has stepped

in to aid the profession and the professional. Hence the purpose

for this research is to find the challenges of implementing digital

libraries in academic environments which would later possibly aid

libraries wishing or aspiring to start one. This research is therefore

driven by the following problem statements. Of what benefits

would a digital library in the university have on the staff and

students of the university, will the implementation of a digital

library in the university bring forth challenges to the universities staff

10

and students or will the implementation of digital libraries bring

forth no challenge what so ever to the library and university as a

whole. Is the technology and knowhow required to smoothly run a

digital library present or in existence in the university or is there an

absence of the technology required to smoothly run a digital

library in the university. The Staff and students being potential users

of these resources will they be well catered for; i.e. have they

been well oriented on the forms of information resources available

to them in a digital library, usage, maintenance and operation of

the digital library or are they believed to be in the know. Lastly the

university, does it view the digital library in a positive light or

negative because its perspective of the library would go a long

way in determining whether there would be a continuity of the

service rendered.

1.3 Research Questions

The research seeks to answer these questions during its

course

1. What are the benefits of a digital library in Ahmadu

Bello University

11

2. What possible challenges could be faced in

implementing the digital library in Ahmadu Bello

University

3. Will the digital library better improve the academic

performance of students of Ahmadu Bello University

4. What forms of information will the digital library of

Ahmadu Bello University provide?

1.4 Objective of the Study

The objective and aims of this research is geared at finding the

benefits of the digital library to the school (ABU) and give its

impact on the performance of both the staff and students of the

school, which it would serve. The research would also show the

potential rigours likely to be faced during the stage of

implementation of the digital library or otherwise start of the digital

library and give the varied forms in which the library could stock its

information. Finally the research would show who the users of the

digital library would be, and give their opinions about the library

and the services offered.

12

1.5 Significance of the Study

This research which is focused on showing the problems

faced in the course of starting a digital library cannot be over

emphasized due to the vast array of information now available.

The research is targeted at showing the present state of

digital libraries in the university in terms of utilization and

challenges and aspects that require further research. They

research would also aim at giving an insight into the difference

between digital libraries and the present electronic library which

seem to be taken as the same thing.

Finally the research would show how important it is to

introduce the use of digital library to the institution and its impact

on day to day routines

1.6 Assumption of the study

The study assumes that digital libraries are in the process of being

developed at the Kashim Ibrahim library of the institution of study

because of the current automation and digitization processes

being undergone in the library. The study also assumes that users

13

of the library are gradually getting to know of the availability and

presence of this phenomenon of study.

1.7 Scope and Limitation

The scope of this study covers the main campus of Ahmadu

Bello University; notable areas of coverage would include the

main library of the university (KIL), and the Electronic Library (MTN

Library). An attempt would be made to look at what form of

digital libraries are in place in the institution and the challenge

faced. The limitations encountered during this research are

numerous but chief among them are; Lack of adequate sources

of information, Time constraint, and financial problems.

14

References

Aguolu, I. E. “Nigerian University Libraries: What Future?” The

International Information and Library Review, 1996.28(3): 262.

Allen B. Vannear. “Major Decision Points in Library Automation,”

College and Research Libraries, 31(September 1970), 303-304

Arms, W. Y. Key concepts in the architecture of the digital library.

D-lib Magazine, July,

1995URL:http://www.dlib.org/dlib/July95/07arms.html

Devchoudhuri, G.B. “Digital Libraries: An overview” In T.A.V. Murthy

et al (ed): Automation of Libraries in North Eastern Region:

Trends, Issues and challenges. PLANNER. Shillong. Nov. 6-7. 2003.

Inflibnet. Pp 172-176

"Information Processing." Encyclopaedia Britannica.

Encyclopaedia Britannica Student and Home Edition.

Chicago: Encyclopaedia Britannica, 2010.

Kumar, P.S.G. Students Manual of Library and Information Science,

BR Publishing Corporation. New Delhi, 2002. pp 717-719

Paul Beckett and James O’Connell, Education and Power in

Nigeria, Hodder and Stoughton, 1977, pp. 26-30; and History of

Ahmadu Bello University, Appendix V and VI, pp. 280-1

Sir Eric Ashby. Investment in Education: The Report of the

Commission on Post-School Certificate and Higher Education

(Lagos, 1960)

15

CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.0 Introduction

Researchers have offered several theoretical frameworks to

describe the nature of digital libraries as emerging phenomena.

This chapter will be aimed at reviewing related literature to the

study. In this respect related reviews would be carried out on the

following:

2.1 Functions of Academic Libraries

2.2 Digital libraries

2.3 Library Automation

2.4 Digitization

2.1 Functions of Academic Libraries

Academic libraries play unique roles of coordinating and

supporting teaching, learning and research efforts of both

students and staff of their parent institutions. In the words of

16

Olanlokun and Salisu (1993), academic libraries perform the

following:

1. Acquire and organize relevant materials for the use of

students, researchers, teachers and the general library user.

2. Preserve and transmit knowledge through bibliographical

instruction and proper organization of the library collection.

3. Contribute to the extension of the frontiers of knowledge

through the provision of relevant research materials to aid

researchers and teachers as well as personalized services.

4. The enrich the programs of those pursuing courses leading to

the award of degrees and diplomas by providing them with

up to date information and helping them to obtain

information from other sources.

Edmund (1978) on his part believes that academic libraries

collect, examine and make available information relating to

university education and to assist in consultation with the university

and other bodies concerned. Similarly Aina (2004) asserts that they

perform functions directly related to the mission and vision of the

17

institutions they serve, their purpose is to support the objectives of

the institutions which are in areas of learning, teaching, research,

and services. Academic libraries are thus faced with the

challenges of providing information in virtually all subjects and

disciplines offered in their institution. This information sources

represented in a plethora of sources is needed to satiate the

demand of diverse and sophisticated users of academic libraries.

As a result of the series of researchers and developmental

activities going on in the global academic community, new

information are daily being generated and added to the

repertoire of global academic records. It therefore gives the

library the chief responsibility of not only seeking and bringing

information together in various sources and diverse forms but also

to communicate and facilitate the impartation of knowledge

contained therein to those who need them. Ifidion and Nkoli

(2002) on their part identified the basic functions of academic

libraries they include;

1. Provision of materials for undergraduate instructions, term

papers and projects as well as for supplementary readings.

18

2. Provision of materials in support of faculty, external and

collaborating researchers.

3. Provision of materials for self-development.

4. Provision of expensive standard work especially in the

professional discipline.

5. Provision of specialized information on the region within

which the university is situated.

6. Cooperation with other academic libraries with the view to

developing a network of academic library resources that are

at the disposal of all scholars.

2.2 Digital Libraries

A digital library may be perceived as an information service or a

collection of electronic information resources, in which all the

information resources are available in computer process-able

form. According to Irokwe (2001), a digital library is a library that

harnesses digital technologies as infrastructure to search, collect,

organize, store and distribute cultural, historical and scientific

information whether it is text, visual images or sound. Oppenheim

19

and Smithson (1999) define the digital library as "an information

service in which all the information resources are available in

computer process-able form and the functions of acquisition,

storage, retrieval, access and display are carried out through the

use of digital technologies". Saracevic (2000) in a survey of

definitions of digital libraries summarized these common concepts.

Digital libraries contain managed collections or resources that

have been selected, organized, licensed, secured and preserved.

The resources have some type of representation or metadata and

can be searched and retrieved. Users access digital libraries

through interaction with computer interfaces via networks.

Mitchell (1999) also views this system as one which allows users to

find and more fully use the information contained within the

system in a timely and effective way. Taking a close look at the

definitions given by Irokwe, Oppenheim and Smithson and

Mitchell you would notice that they all say similar things in that

they are all looking at the digital library as performing the same

old functions of acquisition, storage, search, retrieval and display

with the use of digital technologies to give their services. The use

of the digital technology then gives the recipient or user ease in

20

the accessing and retrieval of the digitized information resources.

Akpan (2001) further supports this notion by saying information can

be delivered across countries into houses and offices instantly. This

notion of delivery of information serves they library better because

electronic books, journals and other information resources are

made accessible to an unlimited audience at the same time and

anywhere. It however implies that all digital library systems are

computerized and own a public network internet protocol

address (IP Address) which veers from the concept from a digital

library to a virtual library. In light of this Gbaje (2007) views any

form of remote access to a digital library as being a virtual library.

He goes on to say that a digital library can exist independently but

a virtual library must be built on the frame work of a digital library.

another definition of the digital library is that of the Digital Library

Federation (DLF) where digital libraries was defined as

organizations that provide resources, including the specialized

staff, to select, structure, offer intellectual access to, interpret,

distribute, preserve the integrity of and ensure the persistence over

time of collections of digital works so that they are readily and

21

economically available for use by a community or set of

communities.

2.2.1 Framework for a Digital Library

A digital library is built around specific repository software. The best

known examples of this are DSpace, Eprints, Fedora, dLibra

(Poland), CiteSeerX and Greenstone Digital Library Software. In

2009, Fedora Commons and the DSpace Foundation merged to

create a new organization “Dura Space”. The Reference Model

for an Open Archival Information System (OAIS) provides a

framework to address digital preservation. Other formal

frameworks include the DELOS Reference Model (Agosti, et al.,

2006) and the Streams, Structures, Spaces, Scenarios, Societies (5S)

formal framework (Gonçalves, Fox, Watson, & Kipp, 2004)

2.2.2 Metadata

The ability to find works of interest in large libraries is directly

related to how well they are catalogued. Metadata is the data

that describes the content and attributes of any particular item in

a digital library. Metadata is another issue central to the

development of digital libraries. It is a concept familiar to librarians

22

because it is one of the primary things that librarians do; they

create cataloguing records that describe documents. Metadata

is important in digital libraries because it is the key to resource

discovery and use of any document. Anyone who has used Alta

Vista, Excite, or any of the other search engines on the Internet

knows that with simple full-text searches, one can get thousands

of hits, but most of them will be irrelevant. While there are formal

library standards for metadata, namely AACR, such records are

very time-consuming to create and require specially trained

personnel. Human cataloguing, though superior, is just too labour

intensive for the already large and rapidly expanding information

environment. Thus, simpler schemes for metadata are being

proposed as solutions. While they are still in their infancy, a number

of schemes have emerged, the most prominent of which is the

Dublin Core, an effort to try and determine the “core” elements

needed to describe materials. The first workshop took place at

OCLC headquarters in Dublin, Ohio, hence the name “Dublin

Core.” The Dublin Core workshops defined a set of fifteen

metadata elements much simpler than those used in traditional

library cataloguing. They were designed to be simple enough to

23

be used authors, but at the same time, descriptive enough to be

useful in resource discovery.

2.2.3 Problems faced by digital libraries

According to Ribeiro (1998), digital libraries are becoming

more complex systems which include text search, functionality

relating to hypertext, multimedia, the Web and highly interactive

interfaces. As such if individuals and companies have problems

designing good web sites it is only reasonable that we should

have problems designing digital libraries that are going to be

uploaded on the internet. This is because digital libraries are more

than just web sites or stores of information in libraries over a

network. Dix et al (1995) argues that even if one has used the best

methodology and model in the design of a usable interactive

system, one still needs to assess the design and test the system to

ensure that it behaves as expected and meets end-users'

requirements. Designers of this kind of library system need to

provide efficient ways to structure information, and represent

them digitally using computers. To design good, usable digital

libraries, one requires knowledge about who will use them, what

they will be used for, the work context and the environment in

24

which they will be used, and what is technically and logistically

feasible. This is all in addition to the usual usability concerns, such

as the tasks and populations of users. This complexity is further

compounded by the fact that designers, content providers, and

users can have very different cultural backgrounds. Although

information in digital libraries is supposed to be available globally,

its design, content provision, and use have remained local. This

cultural diversity raises a number of questions regarding the cross-

cultural usability of digital libraries. Landauer (1995) points out that

it is impossible to design an optimal user interface in the first try. If

information access systems are to provide good, usable

interfaces, designers must conduct some form of testing on the

interface. However, without knowing where in a system users run

into problems, one has little hope of improving the system.

2.2.4 Benefits of Digital Libraries to Academic Institutions-

IBM (1994) gave some major advantages of digital libraries over

traditional (paper-based) libraries they include: faster addition to

the data collection with better quality control, improved search

functionality, faster access to information contained in the system

and also more freedom and reduced bureaucracy for individual

25

users. In addition to these, there are other potential benefits of

digital libraries. These include the following:

A digital library is available wherever there is a personal

computer connected to the network. Therefore it can be

accessed at work places and in the home.

Digital libraries' information resources are available for

access to users around the Clock.

In a digital library environment, it is possible and easier to

provide access to information resources in other formats that

are not possible in the print format environment, i.e.

multimedia formats like video and audio

2.3 Library Automation

In general terms, automation can be defined as the use of

mechanical or electronic devices to undertake tasks which were

hitherto manually performed. According to Compton interactive

encyclopaedia, it is a process through which mechanical or

electronic devices are employed to carry out tasks without human

intervention. The computer is now a common feature to be

reckoned with in the society and libraries are no exception to this.

26

In the opinions of Thompson and Carr (1987) their applications in

library services have now been firmly established. Thus their

relevance to the operations of the library are no longer

questioned or debated. The real issue now is when they will be

fully employed in the operations of libraries most especially

academic libraries because computer systems have come to

stay, and libraries have to be found credible. Library automation

can be defined as the application of modern information

technologies in carrying out library operation. Bierman (1980)

defined it as the use of computers and associated technology to

do exactly what has to be done in libraries with the jurisdiction of

reduced costs and or increased performance. In other words it is

the use of computers and other associated technologies to

revolutionize the face and meaning of the libraries and redefine

their existence. Salman (1975) defined library automation as the

use of semi-automatic and automatic data processing machines

to perform traditional library activities like acquisition cataloguing

and indexing. The Winnebago software company in a step by

step guide to library automation defined automation as the use of

computer hardware and software for tasks that otherwise requires

27

a lot of paper work and staff work. All three definitions of library

automation given all have a similarity, the use of machines in the

simplification of the libraries daily routines.

2.3.1 Why automate libraries

According to Rowley (1988), organizations generally adopt

automation for either of the following two reasons;

1. To organise in house information to make it easily available

for retrieval

2. To access external database which contains published or

semi-published information

Other justifications given by her for library automation include

increased workload, the need for greater efficiency, opportunity

for newer services and functions, networking and cooperation

and the desire to give a hi-tech image especially in an era of

economic boom.

Omekwu (2004) identified both internal and external factors that

increase the prospects for library automation. Internal factors

include; favourable disposition by management towards

28

automation, the acquisition of information technology based

systems like CD ROMS or Disk held data, exposure from training

and installation of a local area network in the organization.

External factors include the need to access international

databases online, growth and development of the information

technology system, information resources sharing and

cooperation with other external agencies and conformity with

global trends in the information environment. Cochrane (1992)

gave some advantages to the automation of the library. These

include;

1. Allowance for easy integration with various activities

2. It facilitates cooperation and formation of library networks

3. Eliminates uninteresting and repetitive work in the library

4. It avoids duplication of efforts within the library and other

libraries on a network.

5. It gives rise to a range of services offered

29

2.4 Digitization

In the past few years, libraries, companies and other business

organizations have begun the conversion of their physical

information resources into digital forms. This process has come to

be referred to as digitization. Digitization is the primary way of

storing images in a form suitable for transmission and computer

processing, whether scanned from two-dimensional analogue

originals or captured using an image sensor-equipped device

such as a digital camera, a scanner, or acquiring precise

dimensions from 3D scanning device. Abbey (1999) defined

digitization as a process where recorded information in analogue

form or continuous stream of information of varying density and

time is fed into the computer, broken down and put together in

binary code, its character being changed in a precise way into a

digital format. The digital preservation coalition committee (2002)

stated that digitization is the process of creating files by scanning

or other means of converting analogue materials. The resulting

digital copy or digital surrogate will then be referred to as a digital

material and can also be preserved by the library and put to use

by its users. This definition of digitization is acceptable when being

30

compared to the definition given by “Abbey” this is because

Abbey’s definition seems to infer with the word “Broken down and

put together” that the materials are remade or the rebirth of the

materials. This then would mean that some corrections and other

typographical errors would then be seen and corrected or vice

versa. The definition given by the digital preservation committee

says the new files are being created through the use of scanners.

These machines are capable of making digital copies of the

original material, meaning then that the material would remain as

it was.

31

References

Abbey, S. (1999), why digitize libraries? Lecture series retrieved

from

http://www.abbeysac.uk/services/papers/abbey.paper html.

Akpan, E. O. (2001), “The Virtual Library.” Blueprint on the National

Virtual Library Project. Federal Ministry of Education. Lagos,

Nigeria. Section C, pp. 20.

Bierman (1980), Library Automation Ariji Vol 9. In Technology for

Management and Service (ed). Madu, EC Ibadan: Evi-

Coleman p.3.

Cochrane, P.A. (1992), “Information Technology in Libraries and

Ranganathan’s five laws of Library Science,” Libri 42(3) p.243-

241.

Digital Library Federation.(2000). DLF Home. Washington, DC:

Council on Library and Information Resources. Retrieved May

29, 2009 from the World Wide Web:

http://www.clir.org/diglih/dlfhomepage.htm.

Dix, A., Finlay, J., Abowd, G. and Beale, R. (1995), Human-

computer Interaction. Prentice-Hall.

Gbaje, E.S. (2007), The Challenges of Implementing Virtual Libraries

for Higher Institutions in Nigeria. “Departmental Seminar Paper

(unpublished).

IBM (1994), Digital libraries: gross structure and requirement (report

from the workshop). [Online] Available WWW:

http://www.ifla.org/documents/libraries/net/rj9840.pdf

(Accessed 9 Sept 2009).

32

Irokwe, O. P. I ( 2001), “A Blueprint for Implementing Digital

Libraries in Nigerian Universities.” Blueprint on the National

Virtual Library Project. Federal Ministry of Education. Lagos,

Nigeria. Section C, pp.8.

Landauer, T. (1995), The trouble with computers: Usefulness,

usability and productivity. MIT Press.

Mitchell, S. (1999), Interface Design Considerations in Libraries. In D.

Stern (Ed.). DigitalLibraries: Philosophies, Technical Design

Considerations and Example Scenarios (pp 131-181).

Omekwu, C. (2004), Planning for Library and Information Centers.

Computerization in Developing Countries in Technology for

Information. Management Science.Madu, (ed) Ibadan: Evi

Coleman pp.17-29.

Oppenheim, .C. & Smithson. D. (1999), What is the Hybrid Library?

Journal of Information Science, 25(2):97-112.

Ribeiro-Neto, B. and Barbosa, R. (1998), Query Performance

Fortnightly Coupled Distributed Digital Libraries. In: Witten, I.,

Akscyn, R. and Shipman, F. (editors). Proceedings of Digital

Libraries'98. pp.182-190

Rowley, J. (1988), The Basis of Information Technology. London:

Clive Bingley

Saracevic, T. (2000), Digital Library Evaluation: Toward an Evolution

of Concepts. Library Trends, 49(3): 350-369.

Thompson. J. and Carr (1987), An introduction to university library

automation 4th ed: London;Clive Bingley.

Winnebago Software Company (1994), Guide to Library

Automation. A Step by Step Introduction Caledonra

Winnebago Science

33

CHAPTER THREE

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.0 Introduction

The main objective of this chapter is to discuss the research design

used in carrying out this study. Asika (1991) defines research design

as the structuring of research for the purpose of identifying the

studies variables and relationship to one another. This is used in

research to show through the use of diagrams, how the variables

of the proposed research will be observed, controlled and

manipulated, in the generation of data necessarily for the

research. Leedey in 1993 listed some basic pertinent questions to

be asked when planning a research design. They are as listed

below;

1. What are the data needed?

2. Where are the data located?

3. How will the data be interpreted?

34

3.1 Research Method Adopted

The research method adopted for the purpose of this study was

the survey research method. This method was chosen because of

its ability to sample opinions of a large spectrum of people which

occupy the population. They research method was chosen so

that the researcher could carefully sought useful data from the

study and come up with valid conclusions about the research. The

research is entitled challenges of implementing a digital libraries in

academic institutions of which Ahmadu Bello University is being

studied.

3.2 Population of the Study

Population according to Johnson (1980) is a collection or set of

individuals, objects or measurements whose properties are being

observed. Peil (1982) sees it as the cases or individuals that fit

certain specification. Asika (1991) however notes that a

population is made up of all conceivable elements, observations

and subjects relating to the phenomenon of interest. The

phenomenon of interest in question here was the Ahmadu Bello

35

University (main campus), the idea behind this choice was based

on two important factors;

1. The proximity and time frame given for the presentation of a

concluded research.

2. The institutions main campus was scoped and found to have

an aspect of a digital library.

As a result of these reasons the topic was chosen and the

population was stated to show the challenges behind

implementing a digital library.

3.3 Sampling and Sampling Techniques

A sample is a select few of an entity. A sample in mathematical

context can be seen as a subset of a population. Aina (2002)

shows four key values that determine the size of a sample in any

research. They include; the size of the population, the variation in

the characteristics being measured, the number of ways in which

data is to be stratified in the analysis and precision required of the

data

36

3.4 Instrument for Data Collection

The study used a primary means to collect data, this was done

through the use of questionnaires. The questionnaire is constructed

in a way that most questions are closed ended. The choice to use

a questionnaire is based on its wide acceptability, ease of use

and the potential it has to elicit the necessary data. Using the

questionnaire is advantageous because it permits wide coverage

which is necessary for the research also a number of published

and unpublished studies demonstrates its popularity among

researchers. The questionnaire is designed to be a representation

of the research questions and geared to providing reasonable

data that would be suitable for providing solutions for the problem

statements.

3.5 Procedure for Data Collection

The researcher personally administered the questionnaires on

students of the institution, Staff and system analysts of the main

library of the institution. The researcher administered a total of one

hundred and fifty questionnaires (150) for the study, fifty (50) for

the staff and one (100) hundred for the students. The

37

questionnaire was divided into two parts section A and B. Section

A, covered personal data of the respondents while section B

covered issues relating to the study. Interviews were conducted

to solicit information which the questionnaire could not give. This is

of relevance because of the added advantage it gives due to

the face to face interaction with the respondents.

3.6 Method of Data Analysis

Here the researcher used descriptive statistics through the use of

simple percentages and charts. The finding gotten from these

were used to answer the questions raised and show the

challenges of implementing a digital library in academic

institutions.

3.7 Conclusion

The chapter has presented the method to be adopted in

conducting the study. It is expected that the data gathered will

be fully analysed and a successful study actualized.

38

References

Aina, L.O (2002) Research in information science: An African

Perspective. Ibadan: Stifling-Horden Publishers (Nig) Ltd P.39

Asika(1991) Research Methodology in Behavioural Science.

Ibadan: Longman Nig Plc

Leedey, P.A (1993) Practical Research: Planning and Design, 3rd

ed. New York: Macmilan Publishing

39

CHAPTER FOUR

DATA PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION

4.0 Introduction

This chapter presents the data collected for the study, it further

analyses and discusses the data according to the research

questions raised in the study.

4.1 Response rate

A total of one hundred and fifty (150) copies of the questionnaire

were distributed. Out of these questionnaires a hundred (100)

were returned fully completed, Twenty (20) for the staff out of a

total of fifty distributed giving a percentage of forty (40%), and

Eighty (80) for the students from a hundred (100) distributed having

a percentage of eighty (80%). This response rate could be

attributed to the persuasive manner in which the researcher

approached the respondents and persuaded them to fill the

questionnaire. Since the overall response rate is above average it

would provide viable data for the completion of the project.

40

4.1.1 Distribution of respondents by academic qualification

The academic qualification of the respondents is a function of

their productivity, hence the need to include it as a variable in the

study. This is because it is assumed that as the respondents are

growing in the Academic ladder, their method of interacting with

peers and getting access to information sources are wider thereby

influencing their productivity, experiences in research, assignments

and other academic activities. The distribution of the respondents

by their academic rank is presented in table 4.1.2.

Table 4.1.2 Distribution of respondents by Academic Qualification

(Staff)

Academic

Qualification

No of

respondents

Percentage

N.C.E/Diploma 7 35

Degree(BLS) 5 25

Masters &

Above

8 40

Total 20 100

Table 4.1.2 shows that the majority of staff sampled were masters

and above holders with 40% which was closely followed by

41

N.C.E/Diploma holders this is a good sign because it tells that there

is a higher percentage of professional staff working in the library

higher thus they are more knowledgeable in the developments of

the profession.

4.2 Data Presentation and Analysis

This section seeks to present the analysis of the data collected

from the staff for the purpose of this study. To do so effectively the

presentation is done using descriptive analysis, which is carried out

through the use of charts and tables.

4.2.1 Benefits of a Digital Library (staff)

The researcher provided the respondents with statements on usual

benefits ascribed to the use of the digital library. They were

requested to tick the most appropriate responses. The data

collected in this regard is presented in table 4.2.2

42

Table 4.2.2 Benefits of a digital library

Benefits Respondents Percentage

Remote Access 5 25

Faster Access to

Information 6 30

Freedom/Reduced

bureaucracy 7 35

Improved search 2 10

Total 20 100

The table 4.2.2 shows that the respondents would derive greater

freedom and reduced bureaucracy with total respondents of

7(35%), a faster access to information resources 6(30%) followed

by remote access at 5(25%). Ten per cent (10%) of the

respondents thought they would derive improved search

functionality. Also sampled was the level of satisfaction a digital

library would give as compared to the normal library, most of the

respondents here showed high satisfaction to the services offered.

43

Table 4.2.3Challenges of Implementing a Digital Library

Challenges Level of

responses

%

Inadequate fund

for DL software

12 30

Network issues 10 25

Power shortages 4 10

Poor views about

DLs

6 15

Lack of Qualified

Staff

8 20

Total 40 100

Challenges of implementing a DL

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

Inadequate

funds

Network

Issues

Power

shortages

Poor Views Lack of

Qualified

Staff

Fig 1

Table 4.2.3 and Fig 1 show that the inadequate funds for the

digital library software were seen as the biggest challenge of

implementing a digital library to the university. This could be as a

result of budget cut of libraries, the expensive nature of these

software and the cost of starting these projects. The lowest

44

challenge shown in the table and graph was power shortages.

This could be attributed to the solar panels and inverters the

libraries server and library is run on. Also analysed here was who

should be in charge of handling the digital library. To this end

there was an incline to the view that librarians with information

technology skills should run the operations of the digital library

probably because librarians are taught to support the view of

freedom of access to information and open access and with the

information technology skills they could better aid this view.

4.3 Digital Libraries and Academic Performance (staff)

Of the twenty staff sampled only nine (9) were currently

undergoing any academic training their responses are tabulated

and shown below.

Table 4.3.1 Digital libraries and academic performance

DL & academic performance Responses

Supplement lectures 4

Provision of relevant

resources

9

Total 13

45

The table shows that all nine (9) respondents felt that a digital

library would provide relevant information resources for them.

While four out of the total nine thought that the start of a digital

library would act as a supplement to their lectures.

4.4 Formats of Information Resources to be Provided (staff)

The researcher sought to know what forms of information

resources should be provided if the digital library should begin. This

was in an attempt to make sure that the resources meet the users

need and the become benefactors of the project. Their responses

are shown and discussed below.

Table 4.4.1 information formats to be provided

Information

Formats

Respondents Percentage

Paper 4 16.7

Electronic 8 33.3

Combination of

the two

12 50

Total 24 100

The table 4.4.1 shows that twelve (50%) of the respondents say the

library should provide a combination of both (paper and

electronic) information resources. This could be attributed to

various factors;

46

The fact that not every one owns or can afford to purchase a

computer, not everyone knows how to operate a computer and

health issues.

The Students

Here we shall analyse the data gathered from the students of the

institution of which we have a total of eighty questionnaires. Of this

eighty they gender distribution was as follows forty five (45) male

and thirty five (35) female respondents. Also there was a higher

number of undergraduate (55) against the postgraduate (25) all

these are shown in the tables below.

Table showing number of male to female respondents and their

percentage

Gender No of respondents Percentage

Male 45 56

Female 35 44

Total 80 100

Table showing Academic status of respondents

Academic Status No of respondents Percentage

Undergraduate 55 69

Postgraduate 25 31

Total 80 100

47

4.5 Benefits Perceived from a Digital Library (Students)

Table 4.5.1 Perceived Benefits of a Digital Library

Benefits Respondents Percentage

Faster Access to

Information

40 47.62

Stress Free Search 29 34.52

Reduced

Bureaucracy

15 17.86

Total 84 100

Table 4.5.1 shows that students felt a digital library would give

them faster access to information this notion is represented by

forty respondents half of the total valid questionnaires gotten while

only fifteen thought a digital library would give reduced

bureaucracy.

4.6 Perceived Challenges of Executing a Digital Library

(Students)

Table 4.6.1 Challenges of Executing a Digital Library

Challenges No of Responses Percentage (%)

Bandwidth Issues 34 29.3

Power Issues 12 10.3

Inadequate

Computers

26 22.4

Insufficient Finance 14 12.1

Management

Problems

30 25.9

Total 116 100

48

The table shows that a total number of thirty four (34) responses

were flagged to bandwidth issues signifying that if the university

was to think of starting a digital library for its students it would have

to make sure that it is built on a sound network framework another

issue closely tied to this was management problems which had a

total response rate of thirty (30). Not many responses were gotten

on power issues in the university this could be attributed to the fact

that the university has a section (bulk metering) specifically to

cater to all power issues and also because the main library has a

stand by generator and inverters. A representation of the table is

given in figure 2 below

Challenges of executing a DL

0

10

20

30

40

50

Bandwidth

Issues

Power Issues Inadequate

Computers

Inadequate

Finance

Management

Problems

Fig 2

49

4.7 Influence of Digital Libraries on Academic Performance

Table 4.7.1 Influence of Digital Libraries on Students Academic

Performance

Influence Responses Percentage

Relevant resources 49 61

Supplement

Lectures

31 39

Total 80 100

The table 4.7.1 shows that forty nine (61%) of the respondents felt a

digital library would provide relevant resources while thirty one

(39%) felt a digital library would supplement their lectures.

4.8 Conclusion

This chapter has successfully presented and analysed the data

collected for the purpose of this study. One can clearly ascertain

from the tables and graphs the information it portrays. A digital

library would pose some challenges but also bring some good to

the way and manner of information service provision to the staff

and students.

50

CHAPTER FIVE

SUMMARY OF FINDINGS CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

5.0 Introduction

The aim of this study is to determine the challenges of

implementing a digital library in an academic institution and show

the likely problems that are inherent and likely to be encountered

during the execution of the digital library. The study will not be

doing justice if it does not provide solution to these likely problems.

This chapter is therefore set forward to provide summary of

findings, conclusions on the issues bothering on the challenges of

implementing a digital library and recommendation.

5.1 Summary of Findings

Given the data gathered and analysed in chapter four, it is

evident that the major challenge of implementing digital libraries

are inadequate funds and bandwidth issues which is because of

the small amount of money allocated for the running of the library.

One can also see from the data gathered that staff thought the

greatest benefit of the digital library is freedom and reduced

51

bureaucracy and faster access to information while students saw

faster access to information as being the greatest benefit. This is

because a digital library would mean access to information

through the use of a computer who’s processing and retrieval

capability is far greater and faster than the human. Finally the

data gathered also revealed that the format of information

favoured by the user of the digital library would be a combination

of paper forms of information and digital or electronic documents.

5.2 Conclusion

In conclusion, it is evident from the study of the challenges of

implementing a digital library that the digital library would have

valid benefits to both the staff and students of the institution,

however no good thing comes easy and thus the library or a

library implementing a digital library should be ready to counter

the challenges shown in this study. The fact that majority of the

students sampled thought that the major challenge of the digital

library project would be bandwidth issues should not be

overlooked because this is an indication that the information and

52

communication technology (ICT) required for the smooth take-off

of the project is poorly developed.

5.3 Recommendation

Having investigated the problems that would possibly militate

against the potential start of the digital library in academic

institutions, the researcher has come up with the following

recommendations.

Qualified people who have the skill and knowledge to run

the project should be employed or better still the library should

train its current staff so that the can be involved in the building of

the digital library. The library should seek for grants that would

enable them fund the digital library project because such a

project although necessary is expensive and the library would not

want to start such a project just to end it mid-way because of lack

of funds. The library management should also have conversations

with other libraries that have undergone similar projects so they

can assess other potential challenges and make plans to do

better.

53

Bibliography

Abbey, S. (1999), why digitize libraries? Lecture series retrieved

from http://www.abbeysac.uk/services/papers/abbey.paper

html.

Aguolu, I. E. “Nigerian University Libraries: What Future?” The

International Information and Library Review, 1996.28(3): 262.

Aina, L.O (2002) Research in information science: An African

Perspective. Ibadan: Stifling-Horden Publishers (Nig) Ltd P.39

Akpan, E. O. (2001), “The Virtual Library.” Blueprint on the National

Virtual Library Project. Federal Ministry of Education. Lagos,

Nigeria. Section C, pp. 20.

Allen B. Vannear. “Major Decision Points in Library Automation,”

College and Research Libraries, 31(September 1970), 303-304

Arms, W. Y. Key concepts in the architecture of the digital library.

D-lib Magazine, July,

1995URL:http://www.dlib.org/dlib/July95/07arms.html

Asika(1991) Research Methodology in Behavioural Science.

Ibadan: Longman Nig Plc

Bierman (1980), Library Automation Ariji Vol 9. In Technology for

Management and Service (ed). Madu, EC Ibadan: Evi-

Coleman p.3.

Cochrane, P.A. (1992), “Information Technology in Libraries and

Ranganathan’s five laws of Library Science,” Libri 42(3) p.243-

241.

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Devchoudhuri, G.B. “Digital Libraries: An overview” In T.A.V.

Murthy et al (ed): Automation of Libraries in North Eastern

Region: Trends, Issues and challenges. PLANNER. Shillong. Nov.

6-7. 2003. Inflibnet. Pp 172-176

Digital Library Federation.(2000). DLF Home. Washington, DC:

Council on Library and Information Resources. Retrieved May

29, 2009 from the World Wide Web:

http://www.clir.org/diglih/dlfhomepage.htm.

Dix, A., Finlay, J., Abowd, G. and Beale, R. (1995), Human-

computer Interaction. Prentice-Hall.

Gbaje, E.S. (2007), The Challenges of Implementing Virtual Libraries

for Higher Institutions in Nigeria. “Departmental Seminar Paper

(unpublished).

IBM (1994), Digital libraries: gross structure and requirement (report

from the workshop). [Online] Available WWW:

http://www.ifla.org/documents/libraries/net/rj9840.pdf

(Accessed 9 Sept 2009).

"Information Processing." Encyclopaedia Britannica.

Encyclopaedia Britannica Student and Home Edition.

Chicago: Encyclopaedia Britannica, 2010.

Irokwe, O. P. I ( 2001), “A Blueprint for Implementing Digital

Libraries in Nigerian Universities.” Blueprint on the National

Virtual Library Project. Federal Ministry of Education. Lagos,

Nigeria. Section C, pp.8.

Kumar, P.S.G. Students Manual of Library and Information Science,

BR Publishing Corporation. New Delhi, 2002. pp 717-719

Landauer, T. (1995), The trouble with computers: Usefulness,

usability and productivity. MIT Press.

55

Leedey, P.A (1993) Practical Research: Planning and Design, 3rd

ed. New York: Macmilan Publishing

Mitchell, S. (1999), Interface Design Considerations in Libraries. In D.

Stern (Ed.). DigitalLibraries: Philosophies, Technical Design

Considerations and Example Scenarios (pp 131-181).

Omekwu, C. (2004), Planning for Library and Information Centers.

Computerization in Developing Countries in Technology for

Information. Management Science.Madu, (ed) Ibadan: Evi

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Oppenheim, .C. & Smithson. D. (1999), What is the Hybrid Library?

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Paul Beckett and James O’Connell, Education and Power in

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Ahmadu Bello University, Appendix V and VI, pp. 280-1

Ribeiro-Neto, B. and Barbosa, R. (1998), Query Performance

Fortnightly Coupled Distributed Digital Libraries. In: Witten, I.,

Akscyn, R. and Shipman, F. (editors). Proceedings of Digital

Libraries'98. pp.182-190

Rowley, J. (1988), The Basis of Information Technology. London:

Clive Bingley

Saracevic, T. (2000), Digital Library Evaluation: Toward an Evolution

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Winnebago Science

56

APPENDIX I

Dept of Library and Information

Science,

Faculty of Education,

Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

4/10/2010

Dear Sir/Madam,

QUESTIONNAIRE ON THE CHALLENGES OF IMPLEMENTING A DIGITAL LIBRARY IN

ACADEMIC INSTITUTIONS CASE STUDY A.B.U ZARIA

I am currently undertaking a research on the above subject matter. I will be

most obliged if you can assist me in filling this questionnaire for the research.

By properly ticking the most appropriate boxes. Your responses will be treated

with utmost confidentiality and strictly for academic purposes. Thanks for your

cooperation and assistance.

Yours Sincerely

Imoisili O. Odigie

(Researcher)

57

QUESTIONNAIRE TO BE FILLED BY STAFF ONLY

Section A: Background information

Gender Male [ ] Female [ ]

Status Senior [ ] Junior [ ]

Working Experience

a. Below 3 yrs. [ ]

b. 3-8 yrs. [ ]

c. 8-13 yrs. [ ]

d. 13-20 yrs. [ ]

e. 20 yrs. and Above [ ]

Academic Qualification

a. N.C.E/Diploma [ ]

b. Degree (BLS) [ ]

c. Masters and Above [ ]

Section B: Benefits of a Digital Library

1. Have you ever used a digital library?

Yes [ ] No [ ]

2. How did you access the digital library?

a. Over the internet [ ]

b. On your Local Intranet [ ]

3. What were the benefits of the digital library

58

a. Remote access [ ]

b. Faster access to information [ ]

c. Freedom/reduced bureaucracy [ ]

d. Improved search functionality [ ]

4. How satisfied were you with the services of the digital library as

compared the normal library?

a. Very satisfied [ ]

b. Satisfied [ ]

c. Partially Satisfied [ ]

d. Not Satisfied [ ]

Section C: Challenges of Implementing a Digital Library

1. Which of the following challenges do you envisage in implementing a

digital library in A.B.U?

a. Inadequate funds for digital library software [ ]

b. Network Issues [ ]

c. Power shortages [ ]

d. Poor views of the Digital Library [ ]

e. Lack of qualified staff [ ]

2. Who should be in charge of the digital library

a. Librarians [ ]

b. IT Professionals [ ]

c. Librarians with IT Skills [ ]

59

Section D: Digital Libraries and Academic Performance

1. Are you currently undergoing any form of training?

Yes [ ] No [ ]

2. If yes in which of the following ways do you think a digital library would

help?

a. Provision of relevant information resources [ ]

b. Supplement Lectures [ ]

Section E: Forms of information to be provided

1. What form of information should be provided in the digital library

a. Paper Based [ ]

b. Electronic based [ ]

c. Combination of the two [ ]

60

APPENDIX II

Dept of Library and Information

Science,

Faculty of Education,

Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

4/10/2010

Dear Sir/Madam,

QUESTIONNAIRE ON THE CHALLENGES OF IMPLEMENTING A DIGITAL LIBRARY IN

ACADEMIC INSTITUTIONS CASE STUDY A.B.U ZARIA

I am currently undertaking a research on the above subject matter. I will be

most obliged if you can assist me in filling this questionnaire for the research.

By properly ticking the most appropriate boxes. Your responses will be treated

with utmost confidentiality and strictly for academic purposes. Thanks for your

cooperation and assistance.

Yours Sincerely

Imoisili O. Odigie

(Researcher)

61

QUESTIONNAIRE TO BE FILLED BY STUDENTS ONLY

Section A: Background information

Gender Male [ ] Female [ ]

Academic Status Undergraduate [ ] Postgraduate [ ]

Section B: Perceived Benefits of a Digital Library

5. Have you ever heard of a digital library?

Yes [ ] No [ ]

6. Have you ever use one?

c. Yes [ ] No [ ]

7. In your opinion what benefits would you derive from a digital library

e. Faster access to information resources [ ]

f. Stress free search for information [ ]

g. Reduced bureaucracy [ ]

Section C: Challenges of Executing a Digital Library

3. Which of the following challenges do you envisage in implementing a

digital library in A.B.U?

f. Bandwidth Issues [ ]

g. Power Issues [ ]

h. Insufficient Computers [ ]

i. Insufficient Finance [ ]

j. Management Problems [ ]

62

Section D: Influence of Digital Libraries on Academic Performance

1. Through which of the following do you think a Digital Library would

impact your academic performance?

c. Provision of relevant information resources [ ]

d. Supplement Lectures [ ]