Table of Contents
Abstract. 2
CHAPTER ONE.. 5
INTRODUCTION.. 5
1.1 Background to the Study.. 5
1.2 Statement of the Problem... 6
1.3 Objectives of the Study.. 7
1.4 Research Questions. 7
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 8
1.6 Significance of the Study.. 8
1.7 Scope of the Study.. 9
1.8 Limitations of the Study.. 9
1.9 Organization of the Study.. 9
1.10 Definition of Terms. 10
CHAPTER TWO.. 14
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE.. 14
2.1 Introduction.. 14
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 14
2.2.1 Information Access Theory. 14
2.2.2 Resource Dependency Theory. 15
2.2.3 Diffusion of Innovations Theory. 15
2.2.4 Social Exchange Theory. 15
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 16
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 20
Chapter Three.. 21
Research Methodology.. 21
3.1 Introduction.. 21
3.2 Research Design.. 21
3.3 Target Population.. 21
3.4 Sample Size and Sampling Techniques. 22
3.5 Data Collection Instruments. 22
3.6 Data Collection Procedures. 23
3.7 Data Analysis Techniques. 23
3.8 Ethical Considerations. 23
3.9 Conclusion.. 24
CHAPTER FOUR.. 25
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION.. 25
4.1 Preamble.. 25
4.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Respondents. 25
TABLES BASED ON RESEARCH QUESTIONS.. 30
4.3 Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one:. 30
4.4 Testing Hypothesis. 41
Discussion of findings. 42
CHAPTER FIVE.. 45
SUMMARY CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS.. 45
5.1 Summary of Findings. 45
5.2 Conclusion.. 46
5.3 Recommendations. 47
REFERENCES.. 49
Questionnaire.. 52
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
In recent years, the concept of open access (OA) has emerged as a transformative force within the global academic community, significantly influencing the landscape of libraries in Nigeria. Open access refers to the unrestricted online access to scholarly research outputs, including articles, journals, and data, free of charge or other access barriers. This paradigm shift has profound implications for libraries in Nigeria, which historically have faced challenges in providing comprehensive access to scholarly information due to financial constraints and limited resources (Adebayo, 2020; Oduwole, 2021).
The impact of open access on Nigerian libraries extends beyond mere access to scholarly content. It promotes equitable access to knowledge, empowering researchers, students, and the general public to freely access and utilize information crucial for academic and socioeconomic development (Aina, 2018; Akintunde, 2019). Moreover, OA enhances visibility and global reach for Nigerian research outputs, thereby increasing citations and the impact of local research on a global scale (Olatokun & Omeluzor, 2022).
However, the transition to open access in Nigerian libraries is not without challenges. Issues such as funding for publication charges (APCs), technological infrastructure, and copyright concerns present significant hurdles (Iroaganachi & Chukwu, 2020; Salami & Ajegbomogun, 2021). Libraries play a pivotal role in navigating these challenges by advocating for sustainable OA models and providing support to researchers in understanding OA policies and compliance (Omolara, 2023).
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The emergence of open access (OA) has posed both opportunities and challenges for libraries in Nigeria, prompting a critical examination of its impact within the local academic and research ecosystem. Open access, characterized by unrestricted online access to scholarly publications, has the potential to enhance access to knowledge and promote visibility of Nigerian research outputs on a global scale (Adebayo, 2020; Akintunde, 2019). However, the integration of OA principles into Nigerian libraries faces significant challenges, including financial constraints for funding article processing charges (APCs), inadequate technological infrastructure, and concerns over copyright compliance and intellectual property rights (Iroaganachi & Chukwu, 2020; Oduwole, 2021).
The financial implications of OA publishing pose a substantial barrier for Nigerian libraries, which often operate under limited budgets and resources. Scholarly journals that operate on APC models require funding for authors to publish their work openly, thereby shifting financial burdens from readers to authors or institutions (Iroaganachi & Chukwu, 2020). This model can be particularly challenging in a Nigerian context where universities and research institutions may struggle to allocate sufficient funds for APCs, potentially limiting participation in the global scholarly discourse facilitated by OA platforms (Oduwole, 2021).
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine the impact of open access on libraries in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To assess the impact of open access on resource acquisition in Nigerian libraries
- To evaluate the role of Nigerian libraries in promoting open access scholarship
- To explore the challenges and opportunities associated with open access for Nigerian libraries
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- To what extent has open access reduced library spending on scholarly resources journals, in Nigerian universities?
- What initiatives are Nigerian libraries undertaking to support open access publishing by faculty researchers?
- What are the biggest challenges faced by Nigerian libraries in facilitating access to and awareness of open access resources?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no significant impact of open access on libraries in Nigeria.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Library Science sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Ibom E-library. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
1.10 Definition of Terms
1. Open Access (OA)
Open access refers to the practice of providing unrestricted and free online access to scholarly research publications, allowing anyone to read, download, copy, distribute, print, search, or link to the full texts of these articles.
2. Library Impact
Library impact refers to the influence or effect that open access practices have on the functions, services, and resources of libraries in Nigeria. This includes changes in collection development strategies, user services, and overall library operations.
3. Scholarly Communication
Scholarly communication encompasses the processes and means by which scholars share and disseminate their research findings and scholarly outputs. Open access is a significant component of modern scholarly communication practices.
4. Article Processing Charges (APCs)
Article processing charges are fees levied on authors or their institutions to cover the costs of publishing an article in an open access journal. These charges are often a barrier for researchers in Nigeria due to financial constraints.
5. Digital Repository
A digital repository is an online platform or database that stores and provides access to digital collections of scholarly outputs, including research articles, theses, datasets, and other types of academic content. Libraries in Nigeria utilize digital repositories to manage and disseminate open access materials.
6. Copyright Compliance
Copyright compliance refers to adherence to legal requirements and restrictions regarding the use, reproduction, and distribution of copyrighted materials. Open access initiatives must navigate copyright issues to ensure proper licensing and permissions for published works.
7. Global Visibility
Global visibility refers to the increased discoverability and accessibility of research outputs from Nigerian scholars and institutions on a global scale through open access platforms. Enhanced global visibility can lead to higher citation rates and impact for Nigerian research publications.
