Optimizing Innovative Tools for Dissemination of Information in Nigerian Academic Libraries During Post-COVID Era

Abstract

In order to support the mission of the institution in which they are attached, academic libraries provide services in both manual and digital but COVID -19 pandemic that spanned between March and September, 2020 has changed the scenario. With particular reference to Nigeria, about 249,606 cases were confirmed and in order to curb the scourge of this deadly disease, physical academic activities were prevented by Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). With this development, innovative tools became indispensable tools for successful delivery of library services in Nigerian academic libraries. Whether or not these tools are still in use for reformation of library service during post- Covid era remains unclear, hence, need for this study. This study examined librarians’ use of innovative tools for information dissemination in Nigerian academic libraries during the post-Covid era using a descriptive survey design. Data were obtained both in quantitative and qualitative formats from one hundred and forty-four librarians as respondents. A total enumeration sampling technique was adopted because the population was minimal. Findings of the study revealed that innovative tools such as videoconferencing, WhatsApp, teleconferencing, Facebook, LinkedIn, and web-based learning applications are still in use by librarians for the dissemination of information during the post-Covid era. These tools are useful and beneficial to librarians during the post-COVID era, as they facilitate easy participation and engagement of library users in various discussions. Inadequate funding and lack of advanced technology skills were also identified as major impediments to the successful use of innovative tools for information dissemination. As a result, it was suggested that academic libraries throughout Nigeria prioritize staff training on the necessary digital skills needed to cope in this advanced technology era.