STRATEGIES AND CHALLENGES OF IMPLEMENTING LIBRARY AUTOMATION SYSTEM IN ADELEKE UNIVERSITY LIBRARY, EDE, OSUN STATE
Abstract
ABSTRACT
The study investigates the plan and the problems of introducing library automation at Adeleke University Library, Ede, Osun State. Since libraries worldwide move away from the traditional manual system to contemporary digital modes, automation has been identified as a prime vehicle to enhance service provision, information availability, and operation efficiency. The specific research goal for this research is to find out the level of automation in Adeleke University Library, identify the software packages used, determine the benefits reaped from automation, evaluate the strategies employed during the implementation process, expose clear challenges, and way out for maximum usage. The study used a descriptive survey design, where structured questionnaires were administered to a sample of 25 library staff members and 23 of them were received and analyzed. The outcomes highlighted that Adeleke University Library has embraced automation comprehensively in some of the most critical functions such as Integrated Library Management Systems (ILMS), Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC), automated cataloging, and self-service. However, there is still some use of manual procedures. Noteworthy software packages identified include Koha, Aleph, DSpace, and Libsys. Financial constraints, lack of ICT personnel, and maintenance fees were among the challenges facing efficient automation, although technical resistance and poor planning ranked low. Frequent system upgrades, staff training, stakeholder contributions, and infrastructure investment were identified as key to the success of the automation exercise. Adeleke University Library has significantly advanced in adopting automation, the research recommends continued investment in infrastructure, funding on a regular basis, thorough user education, and developing a long-term strategy to ensure sustainability in order to enhance the effects and sustainability of library automation. The research contributes to current literature on the modernization of Nigeria's higher-education libraries and is a convenient point of reference for subsequent research and policy development.
KEYWORDS: AUTOMATION SYSTEM, CHALLENGES, IMPLEMENTING, LIBRARY AND STRATEGIES
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