ICT application in Nigerian libraries: the need to look into the direction of 4IR technologies following the perspective of diffusion of innovation theory

Abstract

Introduction: Libraries in Nigeria have been adopting ICT; however, they have not been fully integrating the 4IR technologies. Objective: This study examined the development process as a case of the application of ICT in Nigerian libraries and the need to look in the direction of 4IR technologies. 6 libraries were drawn from the 6 geopolitical zones in Nigeria. Methodology: An open-ended survey posted to the respondents through the mail was used for data collection. Results: The findings show that ICTs such as computer systems, electronic mail, MARC, OPAC, reprographic technology, printing technology (printers), storage devices (Floppy Disk, CD), microfilms, facsimile machines, and scanning machines have been used in libraries since the beginning of 1960s. The findings identified the reasons for libraries to look in the direction of 4IR such as being a game-changer for the industries at large, being the trend and order of the day for any organization that wants to grow fast and serve their users better, the opportunity of taking libraries to the next level where librarians can work side by side with robots, cloud computing, AI, and other technologies, makerspaces, and internet of things IoTs. Challenges identified libraries in Nigeria can face when looking in the direction of 4IR technologies include funding, inadequate personnel/experts, limited power supply, and a limited budget for procuring technology and training personnel who will be in charge of technology maintenance. Conclusion: The study concludes with the recommendation that Nigerian libraries should be adequately funded to procure 4IR technologies, and should consider recruiting librarians with relevant requisite skills to work with the technology.