Stress Management By Library And Information Science Professionals In Nigerian University Libraries

Abstract

Job stress is an uncomfortable condition resulting from a person's interpretation to threatening events or circumstances. It exists in almost every working and living environments. The study used survey method of research and selected samples from professional librarians working in Nigerian university libraries. It was established by the study that stress in Nigerian university libraries is a reality. But the study has not been able to establish any serious consequences of stress on the job performance of the librarians. The study concluded that stress in Nigerian university libraries is the byproduct of the difficulties encountered by the librarians in performing their duties and responsibilities. However, to reduce stress the work processes in library should be made simple and easy to handle. Library management should support the librarians by designing work processes that could help the librarians to overcome their frustrations and stress. Introduction Job stress is produced from lack of regards for physiological, psychological, and psychosocial comfort from the equipment use in working, relationships, and other considerations that can be found in the working environment. Comfort is achieved when a person neither feels nor show any sign of fatigue or stress. Library and information professionals have multiplicity of roles to perform and this could make the librarians experience fatigue. Special Library Association (2008) identified the roles of librarians to include development and maintenance of a portfolio of cost-effective, client-valued information services that are aligned with the strategic directions of the organization and client groups. Building a dynamic collection of information resources based on a deep understanding of clients' information needs. Gathering evidence to support decisions about the development of information services and products and maintaining current awareness of emerging technologies. Others are assessing and communicating the value of the information organization, including information services, products and policies to senior management, key stakeholders and client groups contributing effectively to senior management strategies and decisions regarding information applications, tools and technologies, and policies for the organization.