Enhancing Access to Local Collections through Digitisation in Selected University Libraries in South-West Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the digitisation of local collections in selected university libraries in South-West Nigeria. The study covered six universities comprising federal and private institutions across Ogun, Oyo and Osun States, Nigeria. A descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered electronically using Google Forms to library personnel in the selected universities. A total of 126 valid responses were received and analysed using descriptive statistics such as frequency counts, percentages, mean and standard deviation with the aid of SPSS. The findings revealed a high level of digitisation across the selected university libraries, with respondents demonstrating positive perceptions and attitudes towards digitisation initiatives. The most digitised local collections identified were journal articles, theses and dissertations, project reports and conference papers. The study further showed that digitisation improves retrieval speed, enhances resilience to disasters, strengthens information security and promotes cooperation and information exchange among libraries. Despite these benefits, major challenges affecting digitisation efforts included high cost of digitisation equipment, poor internet connectivity, inadequate funding and technical infrastructure limitations. To address these challenges, the libraries adopted strategies such as staff training and career development, adoption of new technologies, user participation and awareness creation through media platforms. The study concludes that effective digitisation of local collections requires adequate technological infrastructure, skilled personnel, institutional support and sustainable funding. It therefore recommends increased funding, improved technical facilities, regular staff training and stronger inter-library collaboration to enhance digitisation initiatives in university libraries in Nigeria.